Planning a trip to Bhutan from India? You have made a great choice. Bhutan is a peaceful and beautiful country. It is known for its stunning mountain views, ancient monasteries, and rich culture. Bhutan is the perfect destination for those who love nature, seek peace, and want to take a break from the fast-paced city life. But to enjoy a smooth and stress-free trip, proper planning is important. That’s why I have put together all the essential information you need before visiting Bhutan.
Trip to Bhutan from India
Do Indians Need a Visa for Bhutan?
No, Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. But from September 2022, the Bhutan government made a Travel Permit mandatory for Indian tourists. It is issued by the Department of Immigration in Bhutan. You can apply for it at the border or online through Bhutan’s official tourism website. You also need to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per day per person.
Documents Required
Here is what you will need:
- Valid Passport (minimum 6 months validity) OR Voter ID card (for adults only)
- Passport-size photos
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Travel itinerary
- Proof of funds (optional but helpful)
- Printout of SDF payment receipt
- Entry permit (given at the border or Paro Airport)
Tip: If you are going by road, carry multiple photocopies of all documents.
Read: Facts About Bhutan
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Bhutan is beautiful all year round, but the experience depends on when you go and what you want to do. The best time to visit Bhutan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are the most pleasant months, with clear skies, colourful landscapes, and perfect weather for sightseeing and trekking.
Monsoon is not the best time to visit Bhutan. It rains quite a lot during this season. Roads can get slippery, and landslides are common in hilly regions.
Winter is cold, especially in places like Thimphu, Paro, and Bumthang. But the skies remain clear and snowfall adds charm to the mountains. If you love snow and do not mind low temperatures, winter can be a magical time to visit. Also, it is the off-season, so you will find cheaper hotels and fewer tourists.
How to Reach Bhutan from India
There are mainly two ways to reach Bhutan from India: by air and by road. Both options are good, and your choice depends on your location, budget, and how much time you have.
By Air
Flying is the easiest and fastest way to reach Bhutan. Bhutan has only one international airport, which is located in Paro. Paro International Airport is surrounded by mountains, and only experienced pilots are allowed to land here. Bhutan Air, Drug Air, and Air India offer flights from several cities of India to Paro. Direct flights are only available from Kolkata and Delhi.
Also Read: Most Dangerous Airports In The World
If you travel by Air, you need a Passport. So, don’t forget to carry it. Once you land at Paro, you will get your Entry Permit at the airport immigration.
By Road
If you are a fan of road trips or want to explore at your own pace, entering Bhutan by road is a great option. The most popular and easiest land route to Bhutan is via Jaigaon in West Bengal. Once you cross the gate, you reach Phuentsholing, a Bhutanese border town. Jaigaon is located in West Bengal. It is worth noting that Jaigaon does not have a railway station. You can book a train to Hasimara (HSA), which is just 17 km away. New Alipurduar and New Cooch Behar are two other railway stations located at a distance of 60 km and 90 km, respectively.
Once you enter Phuentsholing, you will have to visit the Immigration Office. It is located just a few metres away from the gate. Here, show your documents.
Immigration Office Timings:
- Open: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Bhutan time)
- Closed: Weekends and Bhutanese national holidays
- Try to reach early in the day to avoid delays
You will be given an Entry Permit for Thimphu and Paro (valid for 7 days, extendable from Thimphu).
If you want to visit other regions like Punakha, Haa Valley, or Bumthang, you need a Special Area Permit from the immigration office in Thimphu.
After receiving your Entry Permit, you can continue your journey into Bhutan. There are multiple options. You can either use the Government-run buses by Bhutan Post, get a shared taxi, or a private taxi.
How Many Days Are Enough?
For a relaxed and complete trip, 7 days is perfect. Here’s a sample itinerary:
- Day 1-2: Thimphu – Capital city, local markets, Buddha Dordenma
- Day 3-4: Punakha – Suspension bridge, Dzong, valley views
- Day 5-6: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (must-do)
- Day 7: Leisure day or explore Chele La Pass
- Add extra days if you want to explore more rural areas or trek.
Budget Estimate
Here’s a rough idea of how much it will cost:
- SDF: ₹1,200/day
- Hotels: ₹800 – ₹3,000 per night (depends on your choice)
- Food: ₹300 – ₹700 per day
- Transport: Shared taxis and buses are cheap
- Entry tickets and local guides: extra for some places
So, for a 7-day trip, the cost will be around ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per person (excluding flights).
Backpacking Tips for Bhutan
If you are planning a backpacking trip to Bhutan, pack smart and light. The weather in Bhutan can change quickly, especially in the mountains. So, always carry layered clothing. A light jacket, a warm hoodie, and a raincoat are must-haves even if you are going during the summer. During winters (November to February), thermals, gloves, and a woolen cap are also necessary. Comfortable trekking shoes are very important, especially if you plan to hike to the Tiger’s Nest or explore valleys on foot. Slippers or floaters are also useful for casual walks in the town.
Carry a small daypack for your daily outings. It should have essentials like a water bottle, energy bars, a power bank, and basic medicines. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm are a must because the mountain sun can be harsh even if it feels cool. If you wear glasses or lenses, carry backups. Pack a reusable shopping bag. It comes in handy for groceries or souvenirs. Bhutan is plastic-conscious, so avoid single-use plastic. Toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo sachets, and hand sanitizer should be included, especially if you’re staying in budget places or hostels.
Internet is available in most cities, but it can be patchy in remote areas. So, download offline maps (like Google Maps offline) before you go. If you are a content creator, carry extra memory cards and charging cables. A small notebook and pen are helpful for jotting down local tips or permit details. Try to keep your luggage under 10–12 kg for easier mobility.
Things to Take Care Of in Bhutan
Bhutan is a peaceful, spiritual, and culturally rich country. The people are polite and respectful, and they expect the same in return. So, dress modestly, especially while visiting monasteries, temples (dzongs), and government buildings. Full-sleeved shirts or t-shirts and long pants are safe options. Remove your shoes before entering religious places and do not touch sacred objects unless you are told you can. Photography is not allowed inside most monasteries, so always ask before clicking pictures. Avoid offending people there.
Smoking is banned in public places in Bhutan. You are allowed to carry limited tobacco for personal use, but you have to declare it at the border or airport and pay tax on it. It’s best to avoid carrying it altogether unless necessary. Public behavior should be calm and decent. Avoid loud conversations, music, or arguments, especially in public transport or religious sites. Bhutanese people are known for their calm nature, and they appreciate quiet travellers.
Carry multiple copies of your ID and permit documents. You may be asked to show them while checking into hotels or at security points between cities. Also, do not throw trash in public places. Bhutan takes environmental cleanliness very seriously. Use dustbins and avoid using plastic bags.
There are no international ATMs in many parts of Bhutan. Some hotels and shops accept Indian currency (₹100 notes are widely accepted), but higher denominations may not be accepted. It’s a good idea to carry enough cash in smaller denominations. Bhutan is very safe for tourists, including solo travellers, but as a rule, always stay alert, especially in isolated places or during late hours.
Final Words
Bhutan is not just another tourist destination. It is a place where you feel peace. The people are warm, nature is untouched, and the vibe is different from any other country. Go with a clean heart, respect their culture, and you will return with memories for life.
If you are planning a trip to Bhutan soon, make sure to plan well, get the required documents, and keep it simple.
