How to Plan a Bhutan Tour for Indian Tourists

For travelers from India, Bhutan stands as a magical and enchanting realm where Buddhism intertwines with the serene landscapes of this mountainous kingdom, bringing tranquility to the body, mind, and soul. The allure of Bhutan lies not only in its stunning views of the Himalayas but also in the spiritual richness embedded in its sacred religious sites.

Indian nationals enjoy a unique advantage when traveling to Bhutan, thanks to the reciprocal freedom of movement established by the 1949 Treaty between India and Bhutan. With just a valid passport or ID, the journey to Bhutan becomes a simple and cost-effective venture. Unlike other nationalities visiting Bhutan, Indian travelers are not obligated to join an organized tour, and the government-issued Minimum Daily fee does not apply to them.

Bhutan and India share a border in the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, and Assam, providing various entry points. Indian nationals can choose to enter Bhutan via the Paro International Airport or through overland border crossings at Phuentsholing and Gelephu. The southeastern crossing at Samdrup Jongkhar serves as an exit point for those leaving Bhutan to India, particularly heading to eastern Assam.

As a reputable Himalayan tour operator, we present a diverse array of Bhutan tours that seamlessly integrate with travel experiences in India, Nepal, and Tibet. Explore our classic Bhutan tours and refer to our comprehensive India to Bhutan travel guide for a fulfilling journey through this mystical kingdom.

Visa and Permit-Free Access for Indian Citizens to Bhutan

Indian citizens enjoy the privilege of visa-free travel to Bhutan due to a reciprocal agreement, allowing them the freedom of movement into this enchanting kingdom. To cross the border, identification is mandatory. Accepted forms of identification include a valid passport with at least six months of validity, an Indian Voter ID with a photograph, or an Identification Slip issued by the Indian Consulate office in Phuentsholing. To obtain the Identification Slip, Indian citizens need to provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or Aadhar Card.

The processing of these documents is swift, taking only 15 minutes, and a nominal contribution of 100 rupees for the Army Welfare Fund is required. This streamlined process ensures seamless entry for Indian nationals, allowing them to explore the beauty and culture of Bhutan effortlessly.

Various Routes for Traveling from India to Bhutan

Traveling from India to Bhutan by Flight :

Reaching Bhutan from India primarily involves air travel, and the exclusive international gateway to the kingdom is the Paro International Airport. Only two airlines, Druk Air (the national carrier) and Bhutan Airlines (a private airline sanctioned by the government), are authorized to operate flights to and from Bhutan. International flights to Paro originate from key Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, and Guwahati.

While flights from India to Bhutan may be relatively more expensive compared to flights from non-Indian locations, the services provided by Druk Air are commendable. The airlines offer friendly and attentive crews, along with quality Indian meals (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian), although there is no in-flight entertainment.

It’s important to note that flying to Paro International Airport is the quickest mode of travel but can be more expensive. For those considering flights from Bagdogra, it’s advisable to explore various websites for the best deals, as discounts may vary. Additionally, Tashi Air, a local domestic airline operating exclusively within Bhutan, facilitates faster travel between Paro and Bumthang, catering to those exploring the western regions of Bhutan.

Traveling from India to Bhutan by Train

India’s extensive rail network offers a convenient means of traveling across the country, providing easy access to Bhutan. With railways connecting every city and many towns and villages, train travel presents an affordable option for reaching Bhutan.

The most economical route to Bhutan by train leads to Jaigaon, the Indian border town near the Indo-Bhutan border. Hasimara, located in West Bengal, is the nearest railway station to Jaigaon. Regular train services operate from Delhi, Kolkata, and Kanpur to Hasimara, with minimal connections and changes. To secure a seat on the desired date, especially for long-distance travel, it is advisable to book train tickets well in advance. Online booking options are available, and e-tickets can be conveniently sent to your email or phone.

Alternatively, New Jalpaiguri is another railway station situated close to Bhutan. From New Jalpaiguri, you can either take a connecting train to Hasimara or opt for a car or local bus to reach the border town of Jaigaon. The Indian Railway’s IRCTC website provides the timetable for all trains to Hasimara and Jalpaiguri. While tickets can be booked for the entire journey from your hometown to Hasimara or Jalpaiguri, it’s important to note that the connecting trains are predetermined on the ticket. Explore the latest train schedules to Hasimara and Jalpaiguri for reference.

Important Note: Advance Booking for Rail Travel to Hasimara

For travelers opting for rail transport to Hasimara, it is highly advisable to secure your tickets well in advance, ideally up to 120 days before your planned travel date. Attempting to book tickets within the final week leading to your travel date may result in unavailability of seats on specific segments of the route due to high demand and extensive bookings. To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, plan ahead and secure your train tickets to Hasimara at the earliest convenience.

Traveling to Bhutan from India by Overland Road Trip:

While not the most cost-effective option for travelers coming from distant places like New Delhi, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Pune, etc., an overland road trip to Bhutan can be a more economical and convenient choice for those in proximity, such as Kolkata and neighboring areas.

Indian nationals have the option to bring their own cars into Bhutan, though a permit is required. Permits can be obtained from the Regional Transport Office in Phuentsholing after crossing the border, with a cost of approximately 200 Ngultrum (Bhutanese Currency), equivalent to around 200 INR.

For those interested in bus travel to Bhutan, a Royal Bhutanese Government-run bus service operates daily from Kolkata to Phuentsholing. Departing from the Esplanade Station in Kolkata, the journey takes approximately 18 hours, and the buses are equipped with comfortable amenities, including an onboard toilet.

It’s important to note that overland travelers have the option of using the extensive train network in India, particularly converging in West Bengal, to connect to the closest railway stations near the Bhutanese border crossings. The vast railway network across India makes travel relatively straightforward. Road travel, however, is the longest and potentially most expensive option, especially for the considerable distance from Kolkata and New Delhi to the Bhutanese border.

Various Travel Options from India to Bhutan

For those looking to optimize costs or enjoy scenic views along the journey, mixing and matching travel methods offers flexibility. The nearest airport to Bhutan is in Bagdogra, West Bengal, approximately a four-hour drive from Phuentsholing and close to Siliguri, a connecting railway station leading to Hasimara.

Flights from New Delhi to Bagdogra are available from around 2,500 INR, and travelers with E-cash can earn an additional 500 INR in their E-cash account. This allows for a customized travel plan, combining different modes of transportation to suit preferences and take advantage of discounted prices. To learn more about preparing for a Bhutan trip from Delhi, refer to additional details.

Optimizing Travel from New Delhi or Kolkata to Bhutan :

For a cost-effective and flexible journey to Bhutan, consider the following travel route:

1. New Delhi/Kolkata – (Flight) – Bagdogra:  Flights from New Delhi or Kolkata to Bagdogra are available, with prices starting from as low as 1,800 INR. Travelers can also earn a 500 INR E-cash reward. The short flight duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes allows for a convenient morning arrival, providing ample time to arrange train tickets to Hasimara upon reaching Bagdogra.

2. Bagdogra – (Road) – Siliguri: After arriving in Bagdogra, a road journey to Siliguri is necessary.

3. Siliguri – (Train) – Hasimara: From Siliguri, take a train to Hasimara. Train travel is a cost-effective and efficient option.

4. Hasimara – (Road) – Phuentsholing:  After reaching Hasimara, continue the journey to Phuentsholing by road. This overland route not only reduces overall travel time but also offers the opportunity to explore Sikkim and West Bengal before entering Bhutan.

Another budget-friendly approach is to take the train to Hasimara and then hire a car to drive into Bhutan for the remaining part of your trip. Renting a car for the duration of your stay in Bhutan can be more economical than relying on hired cars and drivers within Bhutan, given the limited public transport options in the country.

Best Time to Travel from India to Bhutan :

The ideal time to travel from India to Bhutan is during the months when the rainy season has subsided, as the southern part of Bhutan experiences heavy rains influenced by the Indian monsoon. The monsoon typically occurs from late June to the end of September. Hence, the recommended period for travel to Bhutan is from October to March.

Bhutan experiences five seasons – spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. The summer months, spanning from April to mid-June, mark the peak tourist season in Bhutan. During this time, the country is bustling with visitors. It is the opportune period to explore the northern regions, venturing into the Himalayas for trekking or sightseeing.

For the southern parts of Bhutan, the best time to visit is during the winter months. This period, from October to March, offers cooler weather and a decrease in tourist activity, providing a more tranquil experience. Traveling during these seasons ensures a pleasant climate and enhances the overall enjoyment of your Bhutanese adventure.

Popular Bhutan Tour Packages for Indian Travelers :

Explore our selection of popular Bhutan tour packages, tailored for Indian tourists, available throughout the year. Whether you prefer a brief 3-day stay in Paro and Thimphu or an extensive 16-day Bhutan Himalaya tour covering Bumthang and Trashigang, we offer a diverse range of tours to suit your preferences. Designed for those on a budget or those who appreciate traveling with like-minded individuals, our well-crafted Bhutan tour packages provide an exceptional opportunity for an unforgettable experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Join us and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the enchanting landscapes of Bhutan.