Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a serene and picturesque country nestled in the Himalayas. Its unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and peaceful environment make it a favorite destination for travelers from around the world. If you are planning a trip to Bhutan from Hyderabad, India, here is a detailed guide on how to reach Bhutan by train, air, and road.
- By Air: The Fastest Option
Air travel is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Bhutan from Hyderabad. Bhutan’s only international airport is located in Paro, a town surrounded by stunning mountains and valleys. Here’s how you can plan your journey:
Step 1: Fly from Hyderabad to a Connecting City
There are no non-stop flights available from Hyderabad to Paro. You will first need to fly to one of the Indian cities with flights to Paro. Common connecting cities are:
– Delhi
– Kolkata
– Bagdogra (Siliguri)
Major airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara operate daily flights from Hyderabad to these cities. The flight duration from Hyderabad to Kolkata or Delhi is approximately 2-3 hours.
Step 2: Fly to Paro, Bhutan
From the connecting city, you can book a flight to Paro on Bhutan’s national airlines:
– Druk Air
– Bhutan Airlines
The flight from Kolkata to Paro takes about 1 hour and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Flights from Delhi take around 2 hours. Ensure you book your tickets well in advance, as flights to Paro are limited and can fill up quickly.
Estimated Cost
– Hyderabad to Kolkata/Delhi: INR 3,000 to 10,000 (one way)
– Kolkata/Delhi to Paro: INR 10,000 to 20,000 (one way)
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By Train: A Budget-Friendly Adventure
Although Bhutan does not have a railway network, you can take a train from Hyderabad to a station near the Bhutan border and then continue by road. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
The nearest major railway station to Bhutan is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal. From Hyderabad, you can take one of the following trains:
– Guwahati Express
– Bangalore Kamakhya Express
The journey from Hyderabad to NJP takes approximately 30-40 hours, depending on the train and route. Ensure you book your tickets in advance for a comfortable journey.
Step 2: Travel by Road to Bhutan Border
From NJP, you need to travel by road to Phuentsholing, the border town of Bhutan. The distance is about 160 km and can be covered in 4-5 hours. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from NJP or Siliguri to reach Phuentsholing.
Estimated Cost
– Train ticket (Hyderabad to NJP): INR 1,500 to 3,000 (sleeper or AC class)
– Taxi/shared cab (NJP to Phuentsholing): INR 1,000 to 2,500
- By Road: A Scenic Journey
If you prefer a road trip, traveling by road from Hyderabad to Bhutan is an adventurous option. While it’s a long journey, it offers the chance to explore multiple destinations along the way.
Step 1: Drive to Siliguri
You can drive from Hyderabad to Siliguri, which is the gateway to Bhutan. The distance is around 1,800 km, and the journey can take 3-4 days, depending on your stops. Key cities en route include:
– Vishakhapatnam
– Bhubaneswar
– Kolkata
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry all necessary documents for interstate travel.
Step 2: Drive to Phuentsholing
From Siliguri, drive to Phuentsholing, which is about 160 km away.
Step 3: Enter Bhutan
Once you reach Phuentsholing, you will need to complete immigration formalities. Indian nationals require only a passport or voter ID to enter Bhutan. After obtaining the necessary permits, you can drive further into Bhutan to explore destinations like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha.
Estimated Cost
– Fuel and tolls for Hyderabad to Siliguri: INR 10,000 to 15,000
– Accommodation and food: INR 3,000 to 5,000 per day
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Tips for Traveling to Bhutan
– Visa and Permits: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Bhutan but need an entry permit, which can be obtained at the Phuentsholing immigration office.
– Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November are the best months to visit Bhutan for pleasant weather and clear views.
– Currency: Indian Rupees (INR) are accepted in Bhutan, but it’s advisable to carry smaller denominations.
– Local Transport: Once in Bhutan, you can hire taxis or use local buses to travel between cities.
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Which Option to Choose?
– By Air: Ideal for those short on time and seeking convenience.
– By Train: Suitable for budget travelers who enjoy long journeys.
– By Road: Perfect for adventure enthusiasts and those wanting to explore multiple cities en route.
Reaching Bhutan from Hyderabad offers a mix of convenience, adventure, and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel, the affordability of trains, or the charm of a road trip, you can choose the mode of transport that best suits your preferences. Whichever way you choose, Bhutan’s serene landscapes and unique culture are bound to make your journey unforgettable.