Bhutan, known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is one of the most picturesque and spiritually rich destinations in Asia. Its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and commitment to preserving its environment and traditions make it a highly sought-after travel destination. However, because of its small size, geographical location, and the need to protect its environment and culture, Bhutan is a unique destination when it comes to travel logistics. In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways to travel to Bhutan, considering factors such as accessibility, regulations, and travel experiences.
-
Flying into Bhutan
Flying is the most common and practical way to reach Bhutan, with Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines being the two major carriers that operate flights into the country. Both airlines offer flights to Bhutan from several cities in Asia, including India, Nepal, Thailand, and Singapore.
Key Airports:
– Paro International Airport (PBH): Paro is Bhutan’s only international airport and the gateway for most visitors. The airport is nestled in a deep valley surrounded by mountains, making it one of the most scenic and challenging airports in the world. Due to its mountainous terrain, only a few international airports in the world can handle flights into Paro, and landing here requires a special skill set for pilots. As a result, flights into Bhutan are often limited and may require connecting through neighboring countries.
– Nearby Major Hubs: For those coming from international destinations, the most common connecting points include:
– Delhi, India (DEL): There are direct flights from Delhi to Paro.
– Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM): Flights from Kathmandu to Paro are also available.
– Bangkok, Thailand (BKK): Some flights also operate from Bangkok, especially for tourists coming from Southeast Asia.
– Singapore (SIN): Though less frequent, flights are available from Singapore, providing connections to Bhutan.
Flight Considerations:
– Limited Options: Since there are only a few flights operating to Bhutan per week, booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak tourist seasons (March to May and September to November).
– Scenic Views: The flight into Bhutan is known for its breathtaking views, especially as it nears the Paro valley. Passengers are treated to views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains, including the famous Mount Jomolhari.
– Weather-Dependent: Due to the mountainous terrain, flights can sometimes be delayed or canceled due to adverse weather conditions. Travelers should be flexible with their travel plans.
- Overland Travel from India
While flying is the most straightforward way to reach Bhutan, travelers can also enter Bhutan overland from neighboring India, which shares a border with Bhutan on its southern side. The overland journey can be an exciting and scenic way to explore the region, especially for those looking to experience rural life in the Indian subcontinent before entering Bhutan.
Entry Points:
– Phuentsholing (West Bengal, India): Phuentsholing is the primary border town for travelers coming from India. It is easily accessible from the Indian cities of Kolkata and Siliguri. Travelers can take a bus, private car, or even a taxi from these cities to reach Phuentsholing, which is about a 4-hour drive from Siliguri. Once at the border, travelers must go through immigration and customs checks before crossing into Bhutan.
– Samdrup Jongkhar (Assam, India): This is another entry point into Bhutan, especially for those coming from the northeastern states of India, such as Assam, Meghalaya, or Arunachal Pradesh. The border town of Samdrup Jongkhar is a small, bustling town that connects to the Bhutanese town of Trashigang. Visitors can cross the border and continue their journey into eastern Bhutan.
Entry Requirements:
– Visa and Permits: All visitors to Bhutan, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, require a visa. Travelers entering Bhutan overland need to present their visa at the immigration checkpoint. Additionally, travelers are required to obtain a special permit to visit certain restricted areas in Bhutan.
– Travel Permit: Visitors arriving by land must first obtain a travel permit, which can be arranged by a licensed tour operator in Bhutan. These permits are usually arranged in advance, and travelers must provide their itinerary and personal details.
– Access to Remote Areas: Bhutan has several areas that are restricted for foreign tourists, and visitors entering overland will need to follow the guidelines set by the Bhutanese government regarding where they can and cannot travel. Remote regions like Bumthang and the eastern parts of the country often require special permits.
- Traveling by Road from Nepal
For those looking for an adventure, entering Bhutan from Nepal via road is a unique option. However, this route is not as common and requires considerable effort, as it involves traveling through India first.
Route:
– Kathmandu to Siliguri (India): The journey starts from Kathmandu, Nepal, where you must travel by road to Siliguri in India, which takes approximately 12 to 14 hours. From Siliguri, travelers can continue to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s main border town.
– Crossing the Border: From Siliguri, travelers must cross into Bhutan at Phuentsholing, as explained in the previous section. You will need to arrange for the necessary permits and visas.
Considerations:
– Time-Consuming: This route can take a long time due to the multiple border crossings and travel within India.
– Visa and Permits: Nepalese citizens can enter Bhutan with a valid passport or national ID card, while citizens of other countries will need a visa and permit.
- Special Travel Requirements for Bhutan
When planning a trip to Bhutan, there are certain travel regulations and considerations that must be taken into account to ensure a smooth journey.
- Visa and Tour Package Requirement:
– All foreign tourists (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) require a visa to enter Bhutan. This visa can only be obtained through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, who will also arrange the necessary permits.
– This means the country aims to attract only a limited number of tourists to maintain its environmental and cultural integrity. As such, visitors are generally required to book a pre-arranged tour package that includes accommodation, transportation, a guide, and other services.
- Tourism Tax:
– Bhutan imposes a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourists. This fee is included in your tour package and goes towards conservation and the development of local infrastructure. The amount of the SDF varies depending on the season.
- Travel Insurance:
– It’s highly recommended that travelers obtain travel insurance to cover any unexpected circumstances such as medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or other disruptions.
-
Cultural Sensitivity and Etiquette
Bhutan has a unique culture rooted in its Buddhist traditions. Travelers should be aware of and respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive experience. Some essential cultural norms include:
– Respect for Monasteries and Religious Sites: Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites and always ask for permission before taking photos.
– Personal Behavior: Bhutanese culture emphasizes humility and respect.
– Social Interactions: Bhutans are warm and welcoming people, but it is essential to approach social interactions with politeness and respect for their traditions.
Conclusion
Traveling to Bhutan offers a one-of-a-kind experience, blending adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose to fly into Paro or take an overland journey from India or Nepal, the route you select will determine much of your journey’s character. While planning your trip, make sure to be mindful of the visa and permit requirements and follow cultural etiquette to make the most of your experience in this magical country.