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Direct Flights from India to Bhutan
The 0.5-2.5 hours direct flights from India to Bhutan's Paro Airport are undoubtedly the most convenient and fastest way for tourists traveling from India to Bhutan. India leads with the highest number of direct connections, offering flights from 5 key airports: Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, and Gaya, catering to travelers from various Indian cities.
With near-daily flights from Delhi and Kolkata, these routes make the Bhutanese dream more accessible for a greater number of visitors, seamlessly bridging the gap between the two countries.
| Cities | From-To | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Freq. | Economy Class | Business Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | DEL-PBH | 12:30 | 15:20 | 2H20M | 1 flights/daily | Ca.335 USD | Ca.554 USD |
| Kolkata | CCU-PBH | 13:20 | 15:00 | 1H10M | 1 flights/daily | Ca.245 USD | Ca.387 USD |
| Bagdogra | IXB-PBH | 10:20 | 11:30 | 40M | 2-4 flights/week | Ca.143 USD | Ca.228 USD |
| Guwahati | GAU-PBH | 15:20 | 16:45 | 55M | 2 flights/week | Ca.153 USD | Ca.242 USD |
| Gaya | GAY-PBH | 13:10 | 14:50 | 1H10M | Seasonal flights | Ca.231 USD | Ca.371 USD |
(Prices may change, please check the official website or contact our friendly travel experts.)
Most Recommended Flights from India to Bhutan
For travelers looking to fly directly from India to Bhutan, the flights from Delhi and Kolkata to Paro come highly recommended due to their frequent schedules and extensive connections with other international cities. Among them, flights from Kolkata to Bhutan have more price and time advantages.
For those in Northeast India, the Bagdogra to Paro and Guwahati to Paro routes are practical choices. With shorter flight times, they offer a convenient entry point to Bhutan.
Meanwhile, the seasonal Gaya to Paro service caters primarily to Buddhist pilgrims and tourists in Bihar, providing a direct route during certain times of the year.
How to Book a Flights from India to Bhutan
Tickets can be purchased via the official websites of the two airlines that operate this route: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Given the limited number of flights, especially during peak tourist seasons from March to May and September to November, it's crucial to reserve your flight well in advance. You can also approach certified travel agencies that specialize in Bhutanese travel for assistance with bookings. View all Flights to Bhutan>>.
Delhi to Paro Flights
Departure Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
City: Delhi
IATA Code: DEL
Address: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India
Drukair and Bhutan Airlines offer flights from Delhi to Bhutan, with a flight duration of ca. 2.5 hours. There are around 5 flights/week, and during peak season, the frequency may increase to daily flights, making Delhi to Paro flights the most popular route from India to Bhutan.
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major international hub. This allows travelers from cities around the globe to easily find connecting flights to Paro without the need for layovers. You can find the counters for Drukair and Bhutan Airlines in Terminal 3 of the airport. Remember to check the counter locations both outside the boarding gate and inside the departure area.
Kolkata to Paro Flights
Departure Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
City: Kolkata
IATA Code: CCU
There is almost a daily flight from Kolkata to Bhutan, with a flight duration of around 1 hour and a price of ca. $245. This allows travelers to reach Paro from Kolkata more affordably and quickly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours in advance for the connecting flight.
Bagdogra to Paro Flights
Airport: Bagdogra International Airport
City: Bagdogra
IATA Code: IXB
Flights from Bagdogra to Paro take just 40 minutes, offering the quickest aerial route to Bhutan. Bagdogra Airport, a mere 4-hour drive from the Bhutanese border town of Phuentsholing, is well-connected with direct flights from major cities across India.
Guwahati to Paro Flights
Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
City: Guwahati
IATA Code: GAU
Flights from Guwahati to Paro are available around twice a week, operated by Bhutan's national airline, Drukair.
How to Get to Bhutan from India by Road?
You can travel from India to Bhutan by road through 3 border points: Jaigaon – Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.
Through Phuentsholing:
Entering Bhutan via Phuentsholing is the most popular and convenient overland route, thanks to its easy transportation and straightforward entry permit process. Travelers heading to this Bhutanese border town can start their journey from Siliguri in the Indian state of West Bengal. The route is well-served by stable bus and shared taxi services, covering a distance of ca.150 kilometers (about a 4-hour drive) to reach Jaigaon, the Indian border town adjacent to Phuentsholing.
Additionally, major cities like Kolkata, New Delhi, and Mumbai have direct bus, flight, and train connections to Siliguri, making it even more convenient to travel from these cities to Siliguri.
Through Gelephu:
For those looking to travel by land to Bhutan from key northeastern Indian cities like Guwahati or Srinagar, the Gelephu border crossing in southern Bhutan offers a serene entry point. This route is especially appealing for its tranquil travel experience and stunning views of the Himalayas.
Setting off from Guwahati in Assam, a roughly 6-hour drive will cover the distance of about 230 kilometers to reach Gelephu. This makes it a convenient option for travelers seeking to enter Bhutan from the eastern part of India.
Through Samdrup Jongkhar
For those with a sense of adventure seeking to explore the less trodden eastern parts of Bhutan, entering through the southeastern border at Samdrup Jongkhar is the gateway of choice. From there, the route unfolds through Trashigang, Bumthang, Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha, Thimphu, and finally Paro, offering a deep dive into Bhutan's rich tapestry.
Embarking from the prominent Indian city of Guwahati to Samdrup Jongkhar typically requires a journey of around 3 hours, providing a convenient access point into Bhutan's eastern landscape.
Is Available Take a Train from India to Bhutan?
Currently, there is no direct train route from India to Bhutan. Bhutan itself does not have any railways within its borders, and the mountainous terrain along the border makes constructing a direct train link challenging.
However, you can use trains to get close to the border and then switch to road transportation:
From major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, you can reach towns near the Bhutan border:
- Hasimara in West Bengal is the closest train station to Jaigaon, the Indian town bordering Phuentsholing, Bhutan.
- Guwahati in Assam serves as a gateway to Gelephu, another border town in Bhutan.
- Siliguri in West Bengal provides access to both Phuentsholing and Gelephu.
Once at these border towns, you can cross over into Bhutan and catch taxis or buses to your destination within the country.
While not a direct train journey, utilizing trains can be a budget-friendly way to cover a significant portion of your travel from India to Bhutan. Remember to factor in the additional costs of road transportation from the border towns.
Good news for the future: There are plans to build a new railway line connecting Assam's Kokrajhar with Bhutan's Gelephu. This project, if completed, could eventually offer a direct train option from India to Bhutan. However, the timeline for this project is still unclear.
Explore alternative popular ways to enter Bhutan from other countries:
How to Travel to Bhutan from USA
How to Travel from Bangkok(Thailand) to Bhutan
How to Get to Bhutan from Nepal
How to Get to Bhutan from Singapore
Do I Need a Bhutan Visa from Nepal to Bhutan?
For Indian Citizens:
Indian citizens do not need a visa to travel to Bhutan. Indians can obtain an entry permit upon arrival at the border or the airport by presenting a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months' validity or a Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India. It is important to note that other forms of identification, like Aadhaar cards, are not accepted for the issuance of the entry permit.
For Indian citizens traveling by air, the entry permit can be obtained at Paro International Airport. If entering via land, the permit can be acquired at one of the land border crossings, such as Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar. Always check the latest travel requirements before your journey as regulations can change.
For Other Travelers (excluding Indian citizens)
If you are a non-Indian national and wish to transit through India to reach Bhutan, you will need to apply for the necessary entry visa to India as well as a visa for Bhutan. However, tourists from the Maldives and Bangladesh only need to apply for the required visa to enter India.
For the Bhutan visa process, you must fill out an application on the official Bhutan government website, upload the required documents, and pay a $40 visa fee along with a $100 Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per night.
For those who may find the Bhutan visa application and payment process complex, seeking assistance from reputable travel agencies such as Asian Odyssey Travel can simplify the process. These agencies are well-versed in handling financial procedures and the nuances of visa applications, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With their help, travelers can focus on anticipating the unique experiences awaiting them in Bhutan, from its rich heritage to its breathtaking landscapes.
How to Plan a Bhutan Trip from India
Best Time to Visit Bhutan from India
Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Bhutan. The best time to venture into this serene kingdom is during spring (March to May), when the valleys come alive with a riot of flowers. The weather is balmy, and the skies are clear, which is perfect for those who wish to indulge in some trekking and enjoy the vibrant festivals.
Alternatively, fall (September to November) is another prime season for tourists. The air is crisp, and the skies are usually clear, offering the most spectacular views of the Himalayan range. This is also when the popular Thimphu Tshechu festival takes place, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Bhutanese culture. Best Time to Visit Bhutan>>
Must-Visit Destinations in Bhutan
Thimphu: Not just the capital city, Thimphu is the pulsating heart of Bhutan. From the iconic Tashichho Dzong to the Buddha Dordenma statue, the city marries tradition with a touch of modernity.
Paro: Paro hosts the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside. The trek to this monastery is as breathtaking as the views it offers.
Punakha: Punakha is known for its stunning dzong, a fortress that stands at the confluence of two rivers. The serene landscapes and warmer climate make it a pleasant stop. Punakha Dzong>>
Bumthang: Often referred to as the 'cultural heartland', Bumthang is dotted with ancient temples and monasteries, each with a tale to tell.
Perhaps you would like to know more travel tips for your bhutan travel:
10 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan
20 Best Things to Do in Bhutan
Top 7 Valleys in Bhutan to Visit
Top 10 Thimphu Tourist Places to Visit
Planning Your Bhutan Travel Length
Short Trip (4-6 days): Perfect for a quick yet immersive experience, focusing on Thimphu and Paro with a possible excursion to Punakha.
Standard Trip (7-10 days): This gives you enough time to delve deeper into Bhutan’s cultural core in Bumthang, with additional spots like the serene Haa Valley or the Phobjikha Valley, famous for black-necked cranes.
Extended Trip (14+ days): For the intrepid traveler, this duration allows for a comprehensive tour of Bhutan's less explored routes and the opportunity for longer treks.
Click the following link when you're unsure about how many days to stay in Bhutan:
How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 5 Days
How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 6 Days
How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 7 Days
How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 8 Days
5 Days Western Bhutan Group Tour: Paro, Haa & Thimphu - Hidden Buddhist Country6 Days Best Bhutan Group Tour with Paro, Thimphu & Punakha10 Days Impressive Bhutan Wonders Tour: Exploring History, Spirituality & Hiking11 Days Bhutan Highlights with Most Popular Trek - Druk Path Trek11 Days Bhutan Jomolhari Trek Tour: Embrace Majesty of Jomolhari
Combined Himalaya Region Itinerary with India, Bhutan, Nepal & Tibet
For those seeking a grand Himalayan odyssey, combining India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet can be the ultimate travel experience. Begin your journey in the serene landscapes of Sikkim and Darjeeling in India. Experience the blend of Buddhist culture and the colonial charm before making your way to Bhutan.
After soaking in the spiritual bliss of Bhutan, take a flight from Paro to the historic city of Kathmandu in Nepal. Explore the ancient temples, stroll through medieval city squares, and, if time permits, venture into the Annapurna or Everest region for some world-class trekking.
Finally, conclude your Himalayan tour in Tibet, the Roof of the World. From Kathmandu, fly to Lhasa, where attractions like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple await. A trip to the North Face of Everest from the Tibetan side is an awe-inspiring way to cap off your Himalayan journey. Please plan for ca. 3-4 weeks of travel time.
Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel
Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Gangtey.
Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.
Embark on a memorable journey through Bhutan with Asia Odyssey Travel and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and traditions of this unique Himalayan kingdom.
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