Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and peaceful landscapes. Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan offers travelers a unique experience, combining ancient traditions with modern-day charm. If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit this enchanting destination, you’re in luck. Traveling to Bhutan from India is relatively simple, and there are various ways to do it. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to travel to Bhutan from India, the cheapest ways to go, costs involved, and passport requirements.
How to Travel to Bhutan from India: Step-by-Step Guide
Traveling to Bhutan from India is straightforward, and there are several options depending on your location and budget. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip:
1. By Air:
The easiest way to travel to Bhutan is by flying to Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan. The closest international airport in India is Bagdogra Airport (near Siliguri in West Bengal), from which you can catch a direct flight to Paro.
- Airlines: Bhutan’s national carrier, Druk Air, and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from Bagdogra and other Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
- Flight Time: The flight time from Bagdogra to Paro is about 1 hour.
Note: If you’re flying from major Indian cities, make sure to book your connecting flight to Bagdogra first.
2. By Road:
You can also travel by road to Bhutan, and it’s a popular choice for Indian travelers. There are several entry points along the Indian-Bhutan border, with Phuentsholing being the most common.
- From West Bengal: If you’re traveling from the north, you can take a bus or taxi from Siliguri to Phuentsholing, which is around 170 km away.
- From Assam: You can travel by road to Samdrup Jongkhar, another entry point into Bhutan.
The journey offers scenic views of the lush forests and majestic mountains, making it an unforgettable experience.
3. By Train (Indirect Method):
There is no direct train to Bhutan, but you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri, both of which are near the Bhutanese border. From there, you can continue your journey by road to Phuentsholing.
Cheapest Way to Travel to Bhutan from India
The cheapest way to travel to Bhutan from India largely depends on your location, preferred mode of transportation, and travel preferences. Here are a few options:
1. By Road from Siliguri
If you are traveling from cities in North Bengal or Eastern India, the most economical way to travel to Bhutan is by road. Buses and taxis are available from Siliguri to Phuentsholing, which is the main entry point into Bhutan. Taking a bus is the cheapest option, costing approximately INR 500 to INR 700 per person.
If you’re traveling in a group, shared taxis can also be an affordable and comfortable choice, with costs around INR 2000 to INR 3000 per person.
2. By Train and Road Combination
If you’re traveling from other parts of India, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri, followed by a bus or shared taxi to the border. This combination of train and road travel is one of the cheapest ways to get to Bhutan. Train fares vary depending on your class of travel but can range from INR 500 to INR 2000.
3. Affordable Air Travel
While air travel might not always be the cheapest, booking flights well in advance can help you secure lower fares. Keep an eye on budget airlines and promotional offers for flights to Bagdogra or Paro, which can make air travel more affordable.
Cost to Travel Bhutan from India
The overall cost of traveling to Bhutan from India can vary depending on the transportation method, duration of your stay, and travel preferences. Below is a breakdown of typical expenses:
1. Transportation Costs:
- By Road (Shared Taxi or Bus): INR 500 to INR 3000 (depending on the distance and comfort level)
- By Air: Flights to Paro from Bagdogra typically range from INR 6,000 to INR 15,000 one-way. Round-trip fares can cost INR 12,000 to INR 25,000, depending on the season and booking time.
2. Accommodation Costs:
Budget accommodation in Bhutan can cost anywhere from INR 1000 to INR 3000 per night, depending on the location and facilities. Mid-range hotels may cost between INR 3000 to INR 7000 per night, while luxury hotels will range from INR 7000 upwards.
3. Food and Miscellaneous Costs:
Food in Bhutan is relatively inexpensive, with meals in local restaurants costing around INR 200 to INR 500 per meal. Miscellaneous expenses like shopping, sightseeing, and other activities can also add to your budget, so it’s advisable to set aside an additional INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 for a comfortable stay.
Overall, a 5-7 day trip to Bhutan from India can cost between INR 20,000 to INR 40,000 (excluding personal shopping and luxury experiences).
Travel to Bhutan from India Without Passport
One of the major advantages for Indian nationals traveling to Bhutan is that you don’t need a passport to enter the country. Instead, you can travel to Bhutan using one of the following documents:
- Voter ID: A government-issued voter ID card is accepted as proof of identity for Indian citizens traveling to Bhutan.
- Aadhaar Card: You can also use an Aadhaar card as a valid document for entry into Bhutan.
- Valid Passport: While not mandatory for Indian citizens, having a passport is always recommended for international travel.
If you’re traveling by road, the border officials will require your Voter ID, Aadhaar card, or passport along with a permit. Indian nationals are typically issued a permit at the border, which allows them to travel within the border regions of Bhutan for up to 7 days.
For travel beyond the border towns (like Thimphu or Paro), you’ll need to obtain an additional permit, which can be arranged at the Bhutan Immigration Office in Phuentsholing or Thimphu.
Conclusion
Traveling to Bhutan from India is a straightforward and affordable experience, whether you’re flying or taking a road trip. By following the guidelines and tips provided, you can plan your Bhutan adventure with ease. Whether you’re seeking the cheapest way to travel or wondering about passport requirements, Bhutan welcomes Indian travelers with open arms and offers a magical experience unlike any other.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty, tranquility, and culture of Bhutan, just a short journey away from India!
FAQs About Traveling to Bhutan from India
Q1: Do I need a visa to travel to Bhutan from India?
A: No, Indian citizens do not require a visa to travel to Bhutan. However, you will need a permit, which you can get at the border or immigration offices.
Q2: What documents do I need to travel to Bhutan from India?
A: Indian nationals can use a Voter ID, Aadhaar card, or passport for entry into Bhutan.
Q3: What is the best way to travel to Bhutan from India on a budget?
A: The cheapest way to travel is by road. Taking a bus or shared taxi from Siliguri to Phuentsholing is the most affordable option.
Q4: How much does it cost to travel to Bhutan from India?
A: The total cost for a trip can range from INR 20,000 to INR 40,000 for a 5-7 day stay, depending on transportation, accommodation, and personal preferences.
Q5: Can I travel to Bhutan without a passport?
A: Yes, Indian citizens can travel to Bhutan without a passport, using a Voter ID, Aadhaar card, or passport for identification.
