How to Go to Bhutan from India

Planning your Bhutan trip from India? Whether you prefer a scenic drive or a short flight, Bhutan is easily accessible for Indian citizens - with no visa required and multiple routes available.

Here's your complete 2025 guide to how to travel to Bhutan from India, covering both air and road options, key border points, required documents, and helpful travel tips.

Option 1: Travel to Bhutan by Flight from India

Bhutan's only international airport is in Paro, and several Indian cities offer direct flights.

Direct Flights to Paro (PBH):

From Bagdogra (IXB) - ~1 hour
From Kolkata (CCU) - ~1.5 hours
From Delhi (DEL) - ~2.5 hours
From Guwahati (GAU) - ~1 hour (limited schedules)

Airlines Operating:

Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
Bhutan Airlines

Tip: Flights to Bhutan are scenic - try to sit on the left side when flying into Paro for views of Mt. Everest and the Himalayas.

Option 2: Travel to Bhutan by Road from India

If you prefer to enter Bhutan by road, the most popular and accessible route is through the Phuentsholing border, located in southern Bhutan, adjoining Jaigaon (West Bengal).

Main Border Entry Points:

Phuentsholing (West Bengal side: Jaigaon) : i. Nearest airport: Bagdogra (IXB) - 4.5 to 5 hrs drive, ii. Common route: Bagdogra/Siliguri → Jaigaon → Phuentsholing → Thimphu/Paro
Gelephu (Assam side) : i. For those entering from eastern India, ii. Requires longer road travel to reach western Bhutan
Samdrup Jongkhar (Assam side: Guwahati) : i. Entry for eastern circuit (less common for first-time visitors)

Recommended Route (Most Popular)

Bagdogra → Phuentsholing (Jaigaon) → Thimphu/Paro by Road

Fly into Bagdogra Airport
Drive to Phuentsholing (~160 km / 4.5-5.5 hrs)
Complete Entry Permit formalities
Continue to Thimphu (~6-7 hrs) or Paro (~6 hrs) by Bhutanese vehicle

This route is scenic, budget-friendly, and perfect for combining Dooars with Bhutan (if desired).

Entry Requirements for Indian Citizens

No visa required
Required documents (any one): i. Valid Passport (minimum 6-month validity), ii. Voter ID (EPIC)
Entry Permit required (issued at Paro Airport or Phuentsholing)
Carry multiple passport-size photographs
Entry Permit is free, but you must pay the SDF (Rs. 1,200 per night)

Optional: Entry Permit can now be pre-applied online (recommended for smoother processing)

Which Is Better - Road or Flight?

Feature	Road Entry (Phuentsholing)	Flight to Paro
Cost	More economical for groups	Slightly higher but time-saving
Travel Time	Full-day drive from Bagdogra	1–2.5 hrs depending on city
Entry Formality	Done at border office	Done at Paro Airport
Scenic Value	Gradual mountain experience	Stunning aerial views
Flexibility	Good for combining Dooars or Darjeeling	Direct Bhutan access

Travel Tips for Indian Tourists

Book your Bhutan tour package through a licensed operator to ensure permits, SDF, and transport are arranged
If entering by road, start your journey from Bagdogra early in the day to reach Phuentsholing before permit office closes
Carry cash in Rs. 100/ Rs. 200 notes - Indian currency is accepted
Prepare for long, scenic drives in Bhutan - travel is part of the experience

Let Us Handle the Logistics

Still unsure whether to fly or drive? We’ll help you choose the route that fits your timeline, comfort, and budget - and take care of all permits, pickups, and paperwork.