How to get into Bhutan

How to Get Into Bhutan: Entry Points, Flights & Travel Procedures

Traveling to Bhutan is a unique experience, and due to the country’s careful tourism policy, getting into Bhutan is slightly different from most destinations. Here's everything you need to know about how to enter the Kingdom of Bhutan smoothly:

1. Visa Requirements for Bhutan

All international travelers, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, are required to obtain a Bhutan visa in advance.

  • The visa is arranged by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator such as Dream Bhutan Travel & Tours.
  • You must book a pre-planned tour package and submit a scanned copy of your passport.
  • Once approved, you will receive a Visa Clearance Letter, which is required to board your flight to Bhutan and to enter the country.
  • The actual visa will be stamped on arrival at Paro International Airport or designated land border checkpoints.

Indian citizens can enter Bhutan using a valid passport or Voter ID card. Entry permits are issued on arrival at the border.

2. Flying to Bhutan – Paro International Airport (PBH)

The main entry point for international travelers is Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan. It is located about one hour’s drive from the capital, Thimphu.

Airlines Operating Flights to Bhutan

  • Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines (National Carrier)
  • Bhutan Airlines (Privately Owned)

Major International Flight Routes

Flights operate between Paro and the following cities:

  • Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Gaya (India)
  • Bangkok, Thailand
  • Dhaka, Bangladesh
  • Singapore (Changi Airport)

✈️ Tip: Paro flights are limited and in high demand during festival and trekking seasons. Advance booking is strongly recommended.

3. Overland Entry to Bhutan (Land Borders)

Bhutan also allows entry through select land borders from India. These are commonly used by Indian travelers or those on extended South Asian tours.

Major Land Entry Points:

  • Phuentsholing – From Jaigaon (West Bengal), commonly used by travelers heading to Thimphu or Paro.
  • Gelephu – Accessible via Assam, used for central Bhutan routes.
  • Samdrup Jongkhar – Entry point for eastern Bhutan, near Assam.

At these checkpoints, travelers must present their Visa Clearance Letter or entry permit documents. Immigration and customs are handled at the border.

4. Travel Permits within Bhutan

In addition to the visa:

  • Visitors traveling beyond Paro and Thimphu (e.g., Punakha, Bumthang, or eastern regions) may require special travel permits.
  • These are arranged by your tour operator and issued by the Department of Immigration in Thimphu.
  • Permits are also needed to visit restricted trekking areas, including high-altitude border zones.

5. Best Time to Enter Bhutan

The best seasons to travel to Bhutan are:

  • Spring (March to May) – For rhododendrons, clear skies, and popular festivals like Paro Tsechu.
  • Autumn (September to November) – For trekking, photography, and major events like Thimphu Tsechu.

Both seasons offer stable flight schedules and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks.

Getting into Bhutan requires some planning, but the process is smooth with the help of a licensed tour operator. Whether you fly into the scenic Paro valley or enter by road from India, the moment you arrive in Bhutan, you’ll step into a peaceful world of tradition, culture, and natural beauty.

For visa assistance, flight bookings, or Bhutan travel packages, feel free to contact Dream Bhutan Travel & Tours. Email: Info@dreambhutan.com