Bhutan, the mystical Himalayan kingdom, remained largely isolated until the early 1960s, accessible only by challenging foot routes—one from the North through Tibet’s high mountain passes and the other from the South via dense jungles bordering Assam and West Bengal. Today, Bhutan has embraced modern accessibility with well-planned economic development, offering multiple entry options by land and air for travelers eager to explore its pristine landscapes and rich culture.

Enter Bhutan by Land: Key Border Points Open to Tourists

Bhutan’s land border entry points for tourists are limited to three primary towns, each connecting the kingdom with India’s neighboring states:

• Phuentsholing (South-West Bhutan): Situated about 170 km east of Bagdogra Airport in India’s West Bengal, Phuentsholing is your gateway to Bhutan if you prefer road travel. After crossing the border here, enjoy a scenic six-hour drive covering approximately 170 km to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital city.
• Gelephu (South-Central Bhutan): Another important entry point, Gelephu is around 250 km from Thimphu. This route takes you through Bhutan’s lush subtropical zones, eventually transitioning to alpine landscapes, passing through three districts with an estimated travel time of ten hours to the capital.
• Samdrup Jongkhar (South-East Bhutan): Bordering Assam, this entry provides access from Guwahati, Assam’s capital city, located about 150 km away. The journey from Guwahati takes approximately three hours to Samdrup Jongkhar and onward into Bhutan’s eastern regions. The scenic route to Thimphu from here spans roughly 700 km across Trashigang, Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, and Wangdue Phodrang, requiring a minimum of three days travel.

Enter Bhutan by Air: Scenic Flights to Paro and Domestic Connectivity

Bhutan’s aerial gateways connect with major cities in Asia, making air travel a convenient choice:

• Paro International Airport: Perched at 2,225 meters (7,300 feet) above sea level and surrounded by towering mountains reaching 4,876 meters (16,000 feet), Paro is Bhutan’s principal international airport. Operated mainly by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, it offers flights from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore, and Mumbai. The descent into Paro is renowned worldwide for breathtaking views, with flights passing near four of the world’s highest peaks—Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kangchenjunga.
• Domestic Airports: For internal travel, Bhutan features domestic airports in Yonphula (Eastern Bhutan), Bumthang (Central Bhutan), and Gelephu (South-Central Bhutan), providing convenient access to various regions across the kingdom.

Planning Your Journey Into Bhutan

Whether you prefer the adventure of a road trip through picturesque landscapes or the awe-inspiring flight into Paro valley, Bhutan welcomes you with open arms. The network of roads connecting border towns to the capital and other key locations, alongside the robust air travel options, guarantee an unforgettable entry into this Himalayan paradise.

Start planning your Bhutan trip today with us to experience its unspoiled beauty, unique culture, and warm hospitality.