india to bhutan travel cost

India to Bhutan by Road, Flight & Train : How to Reach Bhutan from India

How to reach bhutan from india by flight, train & bus, india to bhutan border - 3 ways to enter bhutan.

1. Kolkata to Bhutan  - Flight, Train or Bus

2. From Bagdogra  or Siliguri to Bhutan - Bus or Taxi

3. From Phuentsholing to Thimphu - Bus or Taxi

Do Indian's Need a Visa to Enter Bhutan?

Read more on visa policy to enter bhutan.

Travel Tips

• The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (Nu.) It is of the same valuation as the Indian rupee. Incidentally, the Indian rupee is accepted as legal tender in the country.
• Most hotels and handicraft stores in the country offer the option of paying by credit card.
• If you're not sure what to buy when in the Kingdom of Bhutan, here are a few recommendations:
• Favourite handicraft items include hand-woven textiles of raw silk, carved masks, woven baskets of cane and bamboo, wooden bowls otherwise known as Dapas, handmade paper products, metal crafts, and so on. You can also get a beautiful Thangkha painting or some vibrant postage stamps.
• Bhutan is a mountainous country, and if you're travelling through the winding roads, motion sickness can become a significant concern. Do make sure that you carry appropriate medicines if you're prone to motion sickness.
• If you're not entirely sure of your Bhutan itinerary yet, do check out the link below to find out the highlights.

This post was published by Alma Rosina

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How to Travel to Bhutan from India(Update 2024)

Bhutan , the Land of the Thunder Dragon, has reclaimed its spot at the pinnacle of Lonely Planet's must-visit destinations list. Its captivating mystery and pristine allure draw adventurers from across the globe, all eager to unravel its enigmas. As a friendly neighbor with a shared border with Bhutan , India is a unique gateway for travelers , providing them with unparalleled ease and simplicity for their journey from one country to another.

From the choice of direct flights to Paro (0.5-2.5 h) from not one but 5 Indian airports to the singular privilege of overland access through vibrant border towns, the passage from India to Bhutan is rife with possibilities. Travelers can even harness the extensive railway network within India to set the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

This comprehensive “India to Bhutan” guide on traveling from India to Bhutan by air, land, and rail is crafted to equip you with savvy planning insights for your ultimate Bhutanese adventure .

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Direct Flights from India to Bhutan

The 0.5-2.5 hours direct flights from India to Bhutan's Paro Airport are undoubtedly the most convenient and fastest way for tourists traveling from India to Bhutan . India leads with the highest number of direct connections, offering flights from 5 key airports : Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, and Gaya , catering to travelers from various Indian cities.

With near-daily flights from Delhi and Kolkata , these routes make the Bhutanese dream more accessible for a greater number of visitors, seamlessly bridging the gap between the two countries.

(Prices may change, please check the official website or contact our friendly travel experts .)

5 Days Incredible Bhutan Tour from Delhi to Paro, Haa & Thimphu

Most Recommended Flights from India to Bhutan

For travelers looking to fly directly from India to Bhutan , the flights from Delhi and Kolkata to Paro come highly recommended due to their frequent schedules and extensive connections with other international cities. Among them, flights from Kolkata to Bhutan have more price and time advantages.

For those in Northeast India, the Bagdogra to Paro and Guwahati to Paro routes are practical choices. With shorter flight times, they offer a convenient entry point to Bhutan .

Meanwhile, the seasonal Gaya to Paro service caters primarily to Buddhist pilgrims and tourists in Bihar, providing a direct route during certain times of the year.

How to Book a Flights from India to Bhutan

Tickets can be purchased via the official websites of the two airlines that operate this route: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Given the limited number of flights, especially during peak tourist seasons from March to May and September to November , it's crucial to reserve your flight well in advance. You can also approach certified travel agencies that specialize in Bhutanese travel for assistance with bookings. View all Flights to Bhutan>> .

Delhi to Paro Flights

Departure Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport

City: Delhi

IATA Code: DEL

Address: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India

Drukair and Bhutan Airlines offer flights from Delhi to Bhutan , with a flight duration of ca. 2.5 hours. There are around 5 flights/week, and during peak season, the frequency may increase to daily flights , making Delhi to Paro flights the most popular route from India to Bhutan .

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major international hub. This allows travelers from cities around the globe to easily find connecting flights to Paro without the need for layovers. You can find the counters for Drukair and Bhutan Airlines in Terminal 3 of the airport. Remember to check the counter locations both outside the boarding gate and inside the departure area.

Kolkata to Paro Flights

Departure Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport

City: Kolkata

IATA Code: CCU

There is almost a daily flight from Kolkata to Bhutan , with a flight duration of around 1 hour and a price of ca. $245. This allows travelers to reach Paro from Kolkata more affordably and quickly . It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours in advance for the connecting flight.

Bagdogra to Paro Flights

Airport: Bagdogra International Airport

City: Bagdogra

IATA Code: IXB

Flights from Bagdogra to Paro take just 40 minutes , offering the quickest aerial route to Bhutan . Bagdogra Airport, a mere 4-hour drive from the Bhutanese border town of Phuentsholing, is well-connected with direct flights from major cities across India.

Guwahati to Paro Flights

Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport

City: Guwahati

IATA Code: GAU

Flights from Guwahati to Paro are available around twice a week , operated by Bhutan's national airline, Drukair.

How to Get to Bhutan from India by Road?

You can travel from India to Bhutan by road through 3 border points : Jaigaon – Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Through Phuentsholing:

Entering Bhutan via Phuentsholing is the most popular and convenient overland route, thanks to its easy transportation and straightforward entry permit process. Travelers heading to this Bhutanese border town can start their journey from Siliguri in the Indian state of West Bengal. The route is well-served by stable bus and shared taxi services, covering a distance of ca.150 kilometers (about a 4-hour drive) to reach Jaigaon, the Indian border town adjacent to Phuentsholing.

Additionally, major cities like Kolkata, New Delhi, and Mumbai have direct bus, flight, and train connections to Siliguri, making it even more convenient to travel from these cities to Siliguri.

Through Gelephu:

For those looking to travel by land to Bhutan from key northeastern Indian cities like Guwahati or Srinagar, the Gelephu border crossing in southern Bhutan offers a serene entry point. This route is especially appealing for its tranquil travel experience and stunning views of the Himalayas .

Setting off from Guwahati in Assam, a roughly 6-hour drive will cover the distance of about 230 kilometers to reach Gelephu. This makes it a convenient option for travelers seeking to enter Bhutan from the eastern part of India.

Through Samdrup Jongkhar

For those with a sense of adventure seeking to explore the less trodden eastern parts of Bhutan , entering through the southeastern border at Samdrup Jongkhar is the gateway of choice. From there, the route unfolds through Trashigang, Bumthang , Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang , Punakha , Thimphu , and finally Paro , offering a deep dive into Bhutan's rich tapestry.

Embarking from the prominent Indian city of Guwahati to Samdrup Jongkhar typically requires a journey of around 3 hours, providing a convenient access point into Bhutan's eastern landscape.

5 Days Iconic Bhutan Tour to Paro, Thimphu & Punakha - Highlights of Bhutan 6 Days Best Bhutan Group Tour with Paro, Thimphu & Punakha 8 Days Bhutan Group Tour with Phobjikha Valley (Nature & Birding)

Is Available Take a Train from India to Bhutan?

Currently, there is no direct train route from India to Bhutan . Bhutan itself does not have any railways within its borders, and the mountainous terrain along the border makes constructing a direct train link challenging.

However, you can use trains to get close to the border and then switch to road transportation:

From major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati , you can reach towns near the Bhutan border:

• Hasimara in West Bengal is the closest train station to Jaigaon, the Indian town bordering Phuentsholing, Bhutan .
• Guwahati in Assam serves as a gateway to Gelephu, another border town in Bhutan .
• Siliguri in West Bengal provides access to both Phuentsholing and Gelephu.

Once at these border towns, you can cross over into Bhutan and catch taxis or buses to your destination within the country.

While not a direct train journey, utilizing trains can be a budget-friendly way to cover a significant portion of your travel from India to Bhutan. Remember to factor in the additional costs of road transportation from the border towns.

Good news for the future: There are plans to build a new railway line connecting Assam's Kokrajhar with Bhutan's Gelephu. This project, if completed, could eventually offer a direct train option from India to Bhutan . However, the timeline for this project is still unclear.

Explore alternative popular ways to enter Bhutan from other countries:

How to Travel to Bhutan from USA

How to Travel from Bangkok(Thailand) to Bhutan

How to Get to Bhutan from Nepal

How to Get to Bhutan from Singapore

Do I Need a Bhutan Visa from Nepal to Bhutan?

For indian citizens:.

Indian citizens do not need a visa to travel to Bhutan . Indians can obtain an entry permit upon arrival at the border or the airport by presenting a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months' validity or a Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India. It is important to note that other forms of identification, like Aadhaar cards, are not accepted for the issuance of the entry permit.

For Indian citizens traveling by air, the entry permit can be obtained at Paro International Airport . If entering via land, the permit can be acquired at one of the land border crossings, such as Phuentsholing, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar. Always check the latest travel requirements before your journey as regulations can change.

For Other Travelers (excluding Indian citizens)

If you are a non-Indian national and wish to transit through India to reach Bhutan , you will need to apply for the necessary entry visa to India as well as a visa for Bhutan . However, tourists from the Maldives and Bangladesh only need to apply for the required visa to enter India.

For the Bhutan visa process , you must fill out an application on the official Bhutan government website, upload the required documents, and pay a $40 visa fee along with a $100 Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per night .

For those who may find the Bhutan visa application and payment process complex, seeking assistance from reputable travel agencies such as Asian Odyssey Travel can simplify the process. These agencies are well-versed in handling financial procedures and the nuances of visa applications, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With their help, travelers can focus on anticipating the unique experiences awaiting them in Bhutan , from its rich heritage to its breathtaking landscapes.

How to Plan a Bhutan Trip from India

Best time to visit bhutan from india.

Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Bhutan . The best time to venture into this serene kingdom is during spring (March to May) , when the valleys come alive with a riot of flowers. The weather is balmy, and the skies are clear, which is perfect for those who wish to indulge in some trekking and enjoy the vibrant festivals.

Alternatively, fall (September to November) is another prime season for tourists. The air is crisp, and the skies are usually clear, offering the most spectacular views of the Himalayan range. This is also when the popular Thimphu Tshechu festival takes place, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Bhutanese culture. Best Time to Visit Bhutan>>

Must-Visit Destinations in Bhutan

Thimphu : Not just the capital city, Thimphu is the pulsating heart of Bhutan . From the iconic Tashichho Dzong to the Buddha Dordenma statue, the city marries tradition with a touch of modernity.

Paro : Paro hosts the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery , perched precariously on a cliffside. The trek to this monastery is as breathtaking as the views it offers.

Punakha : Punakha is known for its stunning dzong, a fortress that stands at the confluence of two rivers. The serene landscapes and warmer climate make it a pleasant stop.  Punakha Dzong>>

Bumthang : Often referred to as the 'cultural heartland', Bumthang is dotted with ancient temples and monasteries, each with a tale to tell.

Perhaps you would like to know more travel tips for your bhutan travel :

10 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan

20 Best Things to Do in Bhutan

Top 15 Attractions in Bhutan

6 Famous Bhutan Dzongs

10 Famous Bhutan Monasteries

Top 7 Valleys in Bhutan to Visit

Top 10 Thimphu Tourist Places to Visit

Planning Your Bhutan Travel Length

Short Trip (4-6 days): Perfect for a quick yet immersive experience, focusing on Thimphu and Paro with a possible excursion to Punakha .

Standard Trip (7-10 days): This gives you enough time to delve deeper into Bhutan’s cultural core in Bumthang , with additional spots like the serene Haa Valley or the Phobjikha Valley, famous for black-necked cranes.

Extended Trip (14+ days): For the intrepid traveler, this duration allows for a comprehensive tour of Bhutan's less explored routes and the opportunity for longer treks.

Click the following link when you're unsure about how many days to stay in Bhutan :

How to Plan 4 Days in Bhutan

How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 5 Days

How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 6 Days

How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 7 Days

How to Plan Bhutan Itinerary for 8 Days

5 Days Western Bhutan Group Tour: Paro, Haa & Thimphu - Hidden Buddhist Country 6 Days Best Bhutan Group Tour with Paro, Thimphu & Punakha 10 Days Impressive Bhutan Wonders Tour: Exploring History, Spirituality & Hiking 11 Days Bhutan Highlights with Most Popular Trek - Druk Path Trek 11 Days Bhutan Jomolhari Trek Tour: Embrace Majesty of Jomolhari

Combined Himalaya Region Itinerary with India, Bhutan, Nepal & Tibet

For those seeking a grand Himalayan odyssey, combining India, Bhutan , Nepal, and Tibet can be the ultimate travel experience. Begin your journey in the serene landscapes of Sikkim and Darjeeling in India. Experience the blend of Buddhist culture and the colonial charm before making your way to Bhutan .

After soaking in the spiritual bliss of Bhutan , take a flight from Paro to the historic city of Kathmandu in Nepal. Explore the ancient temples, stroll through medieval city squares, and, if time permits, venture into the Annapurna or Everest region for some world-class trekking.

Finally, conclude your Himalayan tour in Tibet , the Roof of the World. From Kathmandu, fly to Lhasa , where attractions like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple await. A trip to the North Face of Everest from the Tibetan side is an awe-inspiring way to cap off your Himalayan journey . Please plan for ca. 3-4 weeks of travel time.

15 Days Incredible Himalaya Tour to Tibet, Nepal & Bhutan

Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel

Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.

Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro , Punakha , Thimphu , Bumthang , and Gangtey .

Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.

Embark on a memorable journey through Bhutan with Asia Odyssey Travel and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and traditions of this unique Himalayan kingdom.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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No priority boarding (travelling with a toddler) and the flight was 4 hours late.

Their online check-in system was offline so the lines at the counter were extremely long. Making our connection was also very unpleasant as there were no priorities for boarding (basically a free-for-all) and since I was travelling with my toddler we had a very hard time. The connecting flight was also 4 hours late.

We were charged an additional $54 usd per passenger to board, not mentioned in the ticket.

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Travel from India to Bhutan: Your Route Guide

If you’re looking for an exotic and offbeat travel destination , consider Bhutan . Located in the Himalayas, this small country is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. And while it’s not always easy to get there, the journey is worth it! Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to make the trip from India to Bhutan.

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Obtain entry permit

Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Bhutan, but they do need an Entry Permit. You can obtain an entry permit by presenting any government-approved identity document in the bordering town of Phuentsholing, such as your driver’s license, Aadhar card, passport, etc. However, you can also obtain the same on arrival at Paro airport but you do need a passport to travel to Bhutan by air.

An entry permit to Bhutan lasts for seven days, and you are allowed to travel only between Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. If you intend to stay longer than seven days or plan to travel beyond Punakha, you will need to obtain an additional permit in Thimphu.

Bhutan has introduced Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for Indian citizens as of October 1, 2022. At the time of obtaining your entry permit, you must pay INR 1,200 SDF per person per day.

It is advisable that you keep one day for stay in Phuntsholing to facilitate the process of obtaining a permit and completing other formalities.

From India to Bhutan: How to get there

There are many different ways to visit Bhutan from India, and the best way for you will depend on your budget and time constraints. You can take a bus, train, plane, or even do a bike trip ! Let’s explore all your options so you can choose the best route to travel.

The quickest way to get from India to Bhutan is by air. Several airports in India offer direct flights to Paro , Bhutan, including Bagdogra, Calcutta, Delhi, and Mumbai. You can also fly from Bangkok, Kathmandu and Singapore. The airport in Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from India to Paro a few days a week. Flights usually sell out, so it is advisable to book in advance. The view of Kanchenjunga peak of the Himalayas from flight window is mesmerizing.

Please note Bhutan does not have a railway network. However, this does not mean you cannot travel to Bhutan by train. The best railways stations are Jaigaon and New Jalpaiguri on the Indo-Bhutan border. The Siliguri-Alipurduar route is a popular option for those traveling from West Bengal. The journey takes around 12 hours, and trains run daily. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a scenic option for those looking to take in the sights of the region. The journey takes around 16 hours, and trains run every other day. Train tickets can be booked online from the IRCTC website .

Travel to Bhutan by road can be done in various ways. The easiest way is to take a bus or taxi from Siliguri (Bagdogra) to Phuentsholing . You can also self-drive in your motorcycle or car. The journey takes around four hours. Phuensholing in Bhutan is a border town with Jaigaon in India and is an ideal entry point to obtain the permit.

How much it will cost to travel between India and Bhutan

The cost of traveling between India and Bhutan varies depending on how you choose to make the journey. You can take a bus between Siliguri and Phuentsholing for about INR 300-500. If you take a train, it will be a tad expensive. The quickest way to get there will be by air. The direct flight to Paro will cost about INR 10,000 ($135) one-way.

There are also other options available, such as riding a motorcycle or hiring a car. This can be a fun way to travel but it is important to be aware of the dangers involved. These options are quite expensive as well.

The best time to travel to Bhutan

Bhutan is a beautiful country that is worth visiting at any time of year. However, the best time to go depends on what you are looking for. If you want to see the country in all its glory, then the best time is during the autumn months when the leaves are changing color. If you are looking for a quieter, more peaceful experience, then the winter months might be a better time for you.

Does my Indian SIM card work in Bhutan?

In some areas of Phuntsholing, an Indian SIM card will work with an Indian tariff. The device will then switch to the Bhutanese network if international roaming is enabled. Using an Indian SIM card in Bhutan on international roaming will be extremely costly. It is advisable to obtain a low-cost international roaming SIM card . Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card from Jaigaon or Phuntsholing.

Do I need a travel insurance for Bhutan?

I would never travel outside of my country without a travel medical insurance policy. Although this is my choice, I do recommend it. Why take unnecessary risks? We don’t have control over medical expenses in foreign countries when we’re hospitalized. A good travel medical insurance policy will cover both hospitalization and repatriation costs.

You might want to read this – What happens if you don’t have travel health insurance?

As we’ve seen, there are many different ways to make the journey from India to Bhutan. The best way for you will depend on your budget and time constraints. If you have more money to spend and less time to spare, flying might be the best option for you. However, if you want to save some money and have a bit more time on your hands, taking the bus or train might be a better choice. Whichever route you choose, I hope you have gained some insight into what to expect on your journey from India to Bhutan.

Read More – Hidden Gems of Eastern Bhutan

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2 Responses

Dear Mr. Maniyar, I wish to travel to Bhutan by motorcycle, in Feb/Mar, 2023. Expected stay 5 days.

1. I have heard from different sources that one need to take a tour guide along during stay in Bhutan. On bike it won’t be possible. Is it possible to travel on our own in a group of 2-3 riders?

2. Also, is fee of Rs.1200 per day still applicable for Indian nationals?

Thanks for your comment. Yes tour guide is good to hire and if you know about places in Bhutan then no need else it is required to hire a local guide. Yes you can travel on your own bike, so for that you have to process the permit at Phuntsholling (the border town). Rs. 1200/- pp per day is a must. Also 5 days is very less because you can’t explore much in 5 days. I suggest 8-9 days so you can explore properly. And for 5 days I would say Thimphu, Dochula Pass and Punakha and beyond that Wangdue Phodrang is the best route to cover.

You have to show your route permit at Hongtsho before Dochula pass for the onward journey.

Another route is Thimphu to Paro. It is 45 km from Thimphu and for Paro there is no route permit required only online vehicle registration is required.

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How Much It Costs to Travel Bhutan in 2023 (and How to Save Money)

05/28/2023 by Ashley Yap 2 Comments

This post was written by Ashley Yap, BMTM’s Malaysia-based writer.

With the push for sustainable tourism in Bhutan comes a “high-value, low-impact” strategy, a controversial policy by the government to promote “carbon-neutral tourism while building a more sustainable tourism sector.”

Bhutan introduced its new daily sustainable development fee (SDF) in September 2022, which shocked the world: USD 200 per tourist per night, triple its previous fee of USD 65. According to the government, the SDF is used to offset tourists’ carbon footprint, and improve the overall standard of the tourism industry, including guides, accommodation, food, hygiene and so on.

Before 2022, travelers planning a trip to Bhutan were expected to purchase a package for USD 200–250 per night, with USD 65 of that being the SDF. The rest would go to travel costs, like accommodation, transportation, activities, entrance fees, food, and a guide. But this is no longer the case.

My husband and I recently spent one week traveling in Bhutan , and here’s everything we learned about the costs of traveling in the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon in 2023:

Table of Contents

Bhutan Visa (Sustainable Development Fee)

As mentioned, all travelers to Bhutan, except for Indian nationals, are required to pay a USD 200 SDF per night. For families, there is a 50% discount for children below 6 years of age and a 100% discount for children below 2 years old. In addition to the SDF, there’s also a one-off visa processing fee of USD 40 per person.

The new development fee is in line with the government’s sustainable approach to tourism. Your holidays in Bhutan may be one of the greenest trips you have made, as the fee offsets the carbon footprint of tourists. The government also invests the fees into improving the travel industry’s services and facilities.

Most tour operators will apply for a visa on your behalf. A passport-size photograph and a copy of your passport is required for the application. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you are required to present the SDF clearance letter at immigration.

How to save money : We spent seven nights in Bhutan and wish we had had longer. However, if you really want to see the country on a smaller budget, I suggest limiting your visits to Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, and pack everything into a 4-5-day itinerary. You may also combine your Bhutan trip with a visit to neighboring India, which is one of the cheapest countries in the world to travel in .

Only two commercial airlines operate flights to and from Bhutan, namely Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Direct flights are available from Bangkok, Singapore (where a round-trip ticket costs about USD 950-1,000), and several cities in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Your tour operator can help you arrange your flights.

How to save money : Fly in from India, Nepal, or Bangladesh, where flights are about USD 350-550 cheaper than flying from Bangkok or Singapore. You may even consider entering and exiting Bhutan via Phuntsholing and through West Bengal in India by car. Some tour operators, including Breathe Bhutan , can pick you up from Phuntsholing for an additional cost.

Tour Guide and Driver

With the revised sustainable development fee, travelers may now travel independently in Bhutan, or at least in Paro and Thimphu. However, I highly recommend traveling with a tour guide, as they provide interesting insights into the culture, offer meaningful conversations, and facilitate engagements with locals.

A driver is absolutely necessary when traveling in Bhutan. The distances from one place to another can be long — we spent an average of three hours per day in the car during our trip. There are no traffic lights in the entire country, and you share the cliffside highways with cows, dogs, yaks and the like. In short, I would not want to drive myself in Bhutan (I am not sure if it’s even possible!).

We wanted a personalized and unique Bhutan experience, and so engaged Breathe Bhutan , who tailor-made an itinerary for the two of us. The cost of our tour, which included all meals, a vehicle, a driver, a guide, and taxes, amounted to USD 2,200 for two persons for one week, or about USD 160 per person per day. This does not include the SDF.

How to save money : Join a small group tour, or gather a small group of friends to travel to Bhutan together. Most tour companies offer a discount for group trips.

-READ NEXT-

12 Things to Know Before Visiting Bhutan in 2023

Accommodation

I requested for a range of different accommodation experiences during our stay in Bhutan, and we were able to experience an eco-lodge, a farm resort, a glamping tent, and a four-star hotel. The lodging options in Bhutan are surprisingly abundant!

Here’s how much each of our stays cost:

• The Pema, Thimphu (four-star hotel): USD 150 per night
• Dhumra Farm Resort, Punakha (women-run): USD 140 per night
• Gaselo Eco Lodge, Punakha (family-run): USD 75 per night
• Dewachen Hotel & Spa, Phobjikha Valley: USD 85 per night
• Tiger’s Nest Camp, Paro (glamping tents): USD 130 per night

How to save money : Request local home stays! They are much cheaper than hotels and offer a unique experience. It was unfortunately not possible for us during our trip, but I’d definitely try staying at a farmhouse the next time we visit Bhutan.

Food and Drinks

Since this is covered by most tours, you won’t really be spending money on food and drinks. On our trip, we found Bhutanese food to be simple and delicious. Most meals include 3-4 vegetable dishes (chili and cheese are constants), 1-2 proteins (eggs or chicken), and rice. The Bhutanese tend to eat the same things for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Most hotels offer complimentary Western-style breakfasts.

As for drinks, I enjoyed the local milk tea, whereas the butter tea can be an acquired taste. You can also find local beer and wine at restaurants and convenience stores.

I read on other blogs that Bhutanese food can be bland, but my husband and I enjoyed everything that was put on our table. I especially loved yak cheese!

Entrance Fees

Most sacred sites in Bhutan, including the dzong s (fortified monasteries) and the Buddha Dordenma, require an entrance fee of about USD 13 per person. The Tiger’s Nest entrance fee is about USD 25 per person. Since our tour included entrance fees, we did not have to worry about them.

Whether it’s paintings, scarves, bags, or wood sculptures, the attention to detail in Bhutanese art and crafts is very impressive. If you plan to shop for souvenirs, be sure to visit the shopping street in Paro Town before going home.

For art lovers, you may be interested in investing in a thangka , a Tibetan Buddhist painting made with natural pigments. Each thangka takes weeks or months to complete, and while there are several specific themes, it is up to the artist to interpret in his or her own way. Because of this, a thangka painting can cost from a few hundred dollars up to the thousands.

Unfortunately, there are many shops in Paro selling machine-produced thangka s, and it can be tricky to differentiate a hand-painted one from a machine-made one, so definitely consult your guide, who would be able to advice.

Other Activities

A popular activity to do after the Tiger’s Nest hike is a hot stone bath, which consists of fresh water mixed with Artemisia absinthium leaves, heated with roasted river stones. You will spend about an hour soaking in a wooden tub, and it’s the most relaxing thing to do after a long day of hiking.

Some hotels have their own hot stone bathhouse, which I recommend booking for the evening after your hike. It costs about USD 10 per person for an hour. For a more traditional experience, you can visit local bathhouse (like the one in the picture above), which costs more, about USD 18 per person, but offers an authentic experience.

Another fun thing to do is whitewater rafting in Punakha, along Mo Chhu (Female River) and Pho Chhu (Male River). We did not get to try this, but this blog post gives you the full rundown. A raft costs USD 150 and can take up to six passengers.

Tipping in Bhutan

Tipping your tour guide and driver is customary. I was very grateful for our guide and driver, Nima and Phuentso, who took such great care of us and generously shared the beauty of their country with us. While there’s no specific tipping rate, it was recommended to us to tip about USD 20 per day. Considering that they spent over 10 hours with us and frequently went out of their way to make sure we got to make the most of our trip, I think the tip was well deserved.

In total, our trip to Bhutan cost about USD 7,500, or about USD 535 per person per day, including the USD 200 daily fee.

I hope this post is helpful to you. Comment below if you have any questions about budgeting for your Bhutan trip!

*This post was brought to you in partnership with Breathe Bhutan . All opinions on the tour operator and the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon are my own. Your trust comes first!

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Dextro says

12/06/2023 at 9:48 pm

Hi, I am planning to visit Bhutan I want to know whether guide is mandatory or not for the trip. Extremely confused by the articles out there on internet. What are the authentic rules? Reply awaited.

Ashley Yap says

12/07/2023 at 1:23 am

A guide is mandatory for visiting Bhutan. We highly recommend Breathe Bhutan!

23 essential things to know before visiting Bhutan

Feb 2, 2024 • 15 min read

You'll want to observe proper etiquette at Bhutan's Buddhist sites, such as Punakha Dzong © Kateryna Mashkevych / Shutterstock

Perched in the Himalayas between India and China, tiny Bhutan , with cliff-hanging monasteries, golden-roof temples and colorful prayer flags strung along trails and peaks, stands as the last Buddhist kingdom on earth.

Its careful tourism policy has allowed it to slowly open to the outside world without compromising its culture and traditions or degrading its pristine natural environment – two pillars of  Gross National Happiness (GNH), a unique philosophy that guides the government of Bhutan. 

Having traveled extensively in Bhutan on assignment, I’ve come to embrace its diverse seasons and activities, from horse trekking in Bumthang to rafting down the purple-jacaranda-lined Punakha River to learning how to make hoentey (a specialty buckwheat dumpling eaten during Lomba, the New Year) in the semi-remote Haa Valley.

This quick guide navigates Bhutan's cultural landscape, highlighting its local customs and quirks, as you plan your journey to the country known locally as Druk Yul, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. 

1. Independent travel is finally possible, but a tour operator is still the way to go

Since reopening in 2022, Bhutan has scrapped its all-inclusive tour-package minimum, and initially raised the Sustainable Daily Fee (SDF) to US$200 before reducing it to US$100 , valid now through September 2027. There is a 50% discount for kids ages six to 11, with no SDF for those under six. A one-time US$40 visa-application fee  also applies.

Fees are significantly lower for travelers from India, who can visit with a special permit. Indian travelers need to have a passport or voter ID card. Indian Aadhar cards are not accepted. Meanwhile, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals are  eligible for visa upon arrival , but must pay the SDF.

The good news is that adventurous travelers planning a trip can now independently book accommodations, guides (mandatory for any journey beyond Thimphu and Paro) and transportation. You can also, for the first time ever, extend your visa while you’re there, and you can even drive your own car – for a fee. 

However, for activities like trekking, attending festivals or engaging in more specialized interests, such as birding, horse trekking or cycling, using a tour operator will undoubtedly enhance your overall experience – and is generally required. Lists of certified tour operators, guides and accommodations, including hotels and homestays, can be found on the official Bhutan Travel website .

2. Book early for festivals and trekking in the high season

Since reopening, there are no longer incentives for offseason travel, except for occasional hotel deals. This means you may as well time your trip with autumn and spring, when the most famous tsechus (monastic festivals) take place and the leaves change or rhododendrons bloom, respectively. Book far ahead if you’re considering attending a celebration or going trekking.

That said, locals argue that anytime of year is wonderful to visit Bhutan – and that summer and winter are just as wonderful, with plenty of lesser-known festivals. But these seasons are not ideal if you’re planning a multiday trek, due to muddy trails and chilly camping.

Still, the winter holiday season is auspicious, offering crisp air, clear skies and perfect light for photography, with few travelers. Plus, if you go for the December 17 National Day celebrations at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu , you may even get the chance to meet the king! 

3. Travel insurance is mandatory 

Per Bhutan’s Tourism Rules and Regulations 2022 , you must have travel insurance that covers accidental death, permanent disability due to accidents, emergency medical evacuation and hospital charges in case of sickness. You’ll need your proof of insurance coverage – in English – in order to apply for your visa. 

If you do find yourself feeling unwell during your trip, consider a visit to Thimphu’s National Institute of Traditional Medicine . A doctor will assess your pulse, temperature and ask about your bowels. In turn, you’ll receive a prescription for ayurvedic medicine crafted from local plants, all at no cost. (A small donation is appreciated.) Another moniker for Bhutan is “Menjong,” which aptly means “Land of Medicinal Herbs.”

Alternatively, head to the nearest hospital or health clinic for treatment geared towards Western medicine. The Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital , also known as the National Referral Hospital, is the biggest in Bhutan and located in Thimphu. 

4. Only two airlines fly to Bhutan

Bhutan is served by two national airlines: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines . Because of the challenging landing conditions at Paro International Airport, surrounded by peaks as high as 5500m (18,000ft), only a select few pilots are authorized to fly there.

Direct flights to and from Paro connect you to various destinations, including Bangladesh (Dhaka), India (Bagdogra, Guwahati, Kolkata and New Delhi), Nepal (Kathmandu), Singapore, Thailand (Bangkok) and, from March 2024, the UAE (Sharjah). While Bangkok and Delhi are common entry points, Kathmandu promises the most epic route, with glimpses of Mt Everest on clear days. Request a window seat on the left-hand side when flying to Bhutan. 

Note that it’s not possible to check your luggage through to your final destination, so you’ll have to claim it before boarding your Bhutan connection. 

You can also reach Bhutan overland via India. (Bhutan has border disputes with China. Transit is not possible.) 

5. Bhutan is the world’s first carbon-negative country

Bhutan gained global attention for being the world's first carbon-negative country. Aside from its relatively underpopulated and underdeveloped status (being roughly the same size as Switzerland with only 10% of its population), a key factor in sustaining this achievement is a landmark constitutional mandate requiring the country to maintain a minimum of 60% forest coverage at all times. This is further supported by the environmental conservation pillar of GNH. 

Plastic has also been banned since 1999, though it's not regularly enforced. Nevertheless, do your part to keep the environment clean. There’s plenty of signage to remind you along the way: “Clean & beautiful environment is a feast to the soul,” says one placard en route to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery . 

6. Bhutan is exceptionally safe

Bhutan, a happy and devout Buddhist nation, maintains a low crime rate, with violent crime being scarce. One of the safest countries you’ll ever visit, it’s ranked the 25th-least-corrupt nation out of 180 countries by Transparency International. 

As a single woman, I never felt unsafe on any of my trips to Bhutan. I was also never truly “alone” since I was always under the watchful eye of my guide or local friends. In recent years, the number of female guides has increased, which is more good news for solo women travelers . 

7. Save the hike up to Tiger's Nest for the end

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur when travelers are above 2500m (8202ft). Given that the most commonly visited cities Thimphu and Paro are just 200m to 300m below that threshold, and that several treks in the Bhutanese Himalayas traverse mountain passes reaching heights of 5000m, AMS is a risk in Bhutan.

Ascend slowly, take rest days when needed, and if you begin to feel ill, stop. If it's not managed carefully, AMS can develop into life-threatening forms of altitude sickness, so pay close attention to how you're feeling. If your symptoms don’t ease, descend right away. Helicopter rescue is always an option in case of emergency.

Note: Due to the altitude, acclimatization may be necessary. I recommend waiting a few days or until the end of your trip – saving the best for last! – before embarking on the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery trek , which ascends about 1000m (3000ft). Make sure to schedule a traditional hot-stone bath afterward as well.

8. Stay current on your vaccinations

No vaccines are required for entry into Bhutan. This includes the COVID-19 jab, although you may need proof of it if you’re traveling via India.

That said, you should stay up-to-date with your vaccines and consult a healthcare professional at least eight weeks before your departure in case you need any boosters. Standard recommendations include vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, tetanus, and typhoid, in addition to childhood vaccinations for measles-mumps-rubella and polio.  

For longer trips, including travelers who are moving to Bhutan, you may wish to consider vaccinations for Japanese encephalitis and rabies. Rabies is particularly noteworthy since friendly animals, like monkeys and dogs, can all transmit the virus, and untreated infection is fatal. If you are bitten by an animal, such as a stray dog, immediately go to the nearest health clinic and get a postexposure prophylaxis shot (you’ll need a total of four). 

9. Pack a few medical essentials

Be wary of mosquito-borne illnesses when visiting in the summer months and in the southern regions. Because of climate change, Bhutan had its first nation-wide dengue epidemic in 2019. Dengue is deadly, and there is no vaccine to protect against it. (Malaria, which can be prevented with drugs, is rare and – fingers crossed – anticipated to be eliminated by 2025 .)

You’ll need sunscreen too. Bhutan's average elevation is 3280m (10,760ft), making it one of the highest countries in the world. It also shares the same latitude as Texas, Egypt and the Bahamas, so the sun is strong. Protect your skin – and your eyes. 

There are no tunnels in Bhutan, which means the mountain roads are windy. You may want to consider bringing Dramamine for car sickness and Diamox for altitude sickness – consult your healthcare provider before you travel to discuss whether they're right for you. Pack your own diapers and tampons, if you use them; you can, however, find menstrual pads in stores and at select hotels and restaurants. And don’t forget earplugs – at night, howling dogs can be disruptive to sleep, especially in downtown Thimphu. 

10. Bhutanese food is surprisingly delicious – and spicy!

For decades, Bhutanese cuisine suffered in reputation because travelers were mostly exposed to mediocre buffets at their three-star hotels, featuring Indian, Chinese and continental dishes tailored precisely to their palates.

Thankfully, those buffets are slowly being phased out. The local cuisine, emphasizing fresh and seasonal ingredients, is on the up and up and proving to be extremely tasty, if you know where to go. Ask your tour operator or guide for recommendations. 

And while Bhutanese cuisine is defined by hot chili peppers, such as with ema datse (chilies with cheese) and kewa datse  (potatoes, chilies and cheese), dishes can be modified according to your taste if requested in advance. Still, you may need antacids. 

11. Don’t drink the tap water

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Bhutan unless it has been boiled or purified. Ask your hotel or guesthouse for boiled water, or purchase bottled water to have on your person. 

Do, however, drink the local whiskey and lager (Bhutan has a flourishing craft-beer scene). 

12. Learn local etiquette

“ Kuzu zangpo la ” means “hello” in Dzongkha, a Sino-Tibetan language and the national language of Bhutan, most commonly spoken in the western part of the country. Recite this while bowing (shaking hands is less common). The deeper the bow, the greater the respect. 

Aside from Dzongkha (and the many other local languages and dialects), English is widely spoken because it is the language of instruction in schools. When Bhutanese converse in English, it is common to hear the word “la” at the end of a sentence or question as a sign of respect; for example, “Thank you, la.” Feel free to reciprocate. 

If you find yourself invited into someone’s home and offered food, tradition dictates that you say the words “ meshu meshu”  while covering your mouth with your hands. After two or three offers, it is customary to accept. Similarly, if you are the one making an offer, or even giving a gift or tip, expect similar resistance. (Do consider giving a small tip if someone has invited you into their home and served you food or arra, a local spirit distilled from rice.)

13. Tipping is appreciated (but not mandatory) 

Even if you’ve paid in advance for your all-inclusive trip, show appreciation to your guide and driver by tipping them at the end. On a trek, extend this gesture to the crew – ie the cook, any helpers and the horsemen. While 10–15% is normal, the amount and currency are up to you. 

Tipping is not necessary at restaurants and hotels. A 10% service charge is already added to your bill when you dine out. 

14. Bhutan has nightlife

While most people are drawn to Bhutan for its serene landscapes, peaceful Buddhist monasteries and imposing fortresses ( dzongs ) such as  Punakha Dzong , the country is hiding a buzzing nightlife and music scene that is equally worth exploring. 

Thimphu's nightlife centers around Chang Lam near the stadium, featuring diverse options like the Zone (a popular bar hangout), Mojo Park (a fantastic music venue, where the band Misty Terrace got its start), the Grey Area (Bhutan’s first gastropub) and nightclubs Space 34 and Viva City, which are open to the wee hours.

Note:  Bhutan has ended dry Tuesdays and bars ars are now open throughout the week. 

15. It is finally legal to smoke in Bhutan, but be discreet

Bhutan was long known for its drastic yet visionary health law that forbade smoking and the trade of tobacco products. While the law was recently reversed, smoking must be done “out of sight,” ie behind buildings. The same goes for vaping.

Despite cannabis growing prolifically throughout the country, it remains illegal. Possession can land you in jail for up to one year. The only “drugs” produced in the country are traditional medicines. 

Note: While vaping products are sold in a few places in Thimphu, they’re not widely available. It’s advisable to bring your own. 

16. Keep an open mind

Whether it’s migoi  (yeti) sightings in Bhutan’s wild east, the significance of phalluses as symbols of protection or the flying tiger bringing Guru Rinpoche to the cave where the gravity-defying Tiger’s Nest Monastery now stands, folktales, myths and legends are an integral part of Bhutan’s culture and national pride – and believed to be true.

Approach Bhutan with an open mind. Westerners may find it challenging to suspend logic and reason, but be kind when pushing back, and consider setting aside your own preconceptions. Do as the new tourism tagline says: Believe. 

17. Pack layers

You’ll want layers for fluctuating temperatures and varying terrains, and modest clothing for entering temples and monasteries, including socks for cold temple floors. Aside from a good pair of hiking boots, bring a nicer shoe to wear with a gho  or kira  (Bhutanese national dress for men and women, respectively), should you decide to buy an outfit  – highly recommended if you’re attending a festival or meeting with a dignitary. For inspiration, follow Bhutan Street Fashion on Instagram or Facebook.

18. Carry small change

Cash is necessary for buying souvenirs, leaving small donations at monasteries, nunneries and temples (particularly if you’d like a blessing from a monk), and giving tips to your guide, driver and trekking crew, as mentioned earlier. 

If you’re an independent traveler, you’ll want to have small bills on hand to pay for entrance fees to sites and museums. Few – as in almost zero – businesses accept credit cards.

19. Stay connected

SIM cards used to be challenging to obtain, but now you can easily get them upon arrival at Paro International Airport. You can also rent a pocket Wi-Fi device there – useful if you’re planning to visit remote regions and need to be online. 

20. Bring cash and download these apps

It’s easier to bring your own money (make sure the bills are crisp) rather than rely on and seek out ATM machines in the country. The official currency in Bhutan is the ngultrum, which is pegged 1:1 to the Indian rupee. Do exchange at a bank or hotel so that you can have some small ngultrum notes for butter-lamp offerings and such. 

Most Bhutanese businesses accept cash or payments through either goBoB or the  BNB MyPay app . Foreign visitors can activate the app by downloading it from Google Play or Apple's App Store, inserting a local SIM purchased at the airport and funding the digital wallet with their credit or debit card. While goBoB is more popular among locals, some tour operators argue MyPay is better for foreigners because it is linked to more international card networks and is powered by Stripe.

21. Spin prayer wheels clockwise, and other temple tips

When visiting Buddhist monasteries, nunneries and temples, observe proper etiquette: remove shoes and hats, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, refrain from photography in altar rooms, avoid pointing, never lean against a stupa and consider leaving a small donation on the altar or with a monk. If seeking a blessing, it's customary to offer a small donation.

Be it in a car or on foot, circumambulation of a Buddhist temple or shrine, such as a stupa or chorten, must always be clockwise. To go counterclockwise, whether it’s out of ignorance or on purpose, is seen as offensive, culturally insensitive and unlucky. Similarly, prayer wheels, which help purify karma, should be spun in a clockwise direction. 

22. Don’t bargain hard

Unlike some other places in Asia, like India or Vietnam, where you’re expected to haggle, Bhutan’s market scene is a lot more straightforward. You typically pay the price that’s listed – aggressive negotiating tactics are a foreign concept. 

That said, be prepared to spend a pretty penny if you plan to shop. Your eyes will be undoubtedly drawn to abundantly colorful textiles crafted from natural fibers, like silk and cotton. These can take months to assemble, and the prices – which can top four figures – reflect the meticulous work and cultural richness woven into each piece, often done by women.

Note: Geometric yathras , textiles made of yak wool and commonly found in central Bhutan’s Bumthang region, are more budget-friendly.) 

23. Consult the lunar calendar

The Bhutanese calendar is based on Tibet's, which follows the lunar calendar. Buddhist festivals, like tsechus, follow the lunar calendar, meaning the dates change from year to year. There are other cultural festivals, like Bhutan National Day and the Black Necked Crane Festival in Phobjikha Valley, that follow the Gregorian calendar and therefore stay the same.

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How To Reach Bhutan From India

Table of contents.

Bhutan is the only country which measures its progress through the Gross National Happiness Index and hence, it is known as the ‘Happiest Country in the World’. Tourists from all the corners of the world visit Bhutan to explore its ancient monasteries and indulge in its adventurous trekking expeditions . Even though Bhutan tourism is flourishing by the day, the country adopts a holistic approach to protecting and preserving its natural resources, environment, culture and heritage. Want to visit this happiest country in the world? Wondering how to reach Bhutan? Here are the answers to all your questions.

There are two ways to reach Bhutan from India – by air and by road. Indian passport holders do not require any visa to enter Bhutan; you need to carry your passport or a voter ID card to get the entry permit.  Or leave the hassles and book a Bhutan holiday package .

Here is the Summary of How to reach Bhutan.

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How to reach Bhutan by air?

Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan and has connecting flights from Delhi, Bagdogra, Guwahati, and Mumbai . You can take direct flights from Kolkata to Paro.  Hence, there is more frequency of flights from Kolkata to reach Bhutan. The number of flights from Delhi and Mumbai are less as compared to Kolkata and Bagdogra. Druk Air is the national airline of Bhutan and flights can be booked only through the official websites of this airline.

If you are travelling through Nepal, you can take direct flights from Kathmandu to Paro. You can experience the most exciting journey from Kathmandu to Paro as the airplane passes over the four highest mountains in the world . All the other major cities in Bhutan are well-connected with domestic airlines.

Recommended Read – Why Bhutan is the Happiest country in the world

How to reach Bhutan by road?

smokymountainrider.com

Want to go on a road trip to Bhutan ? Here is all you need to know on how to reach Bhutan by road.

Indians who wish to travel to Bhutan by road need to acquire an ‘entry permit’ from the Immigration Office of Royal Government of Bhutan in Phuensholing , which is located on the Indo-Bhutan border opposite Jaigaon, West Bengal. But this ‘entry permit’ allows an Indian tourist to visit Paro and Thimphu only. If you wish to go beyond Thimphu and Paro then you need to obtain a ‘special area permit’ from the Royal Government of Bhutan Immigration Office in Thimphu. It is also possible to arrange the visa from Kolkata at Royal Bhutan Consulate Office. It is better to apply 10-12 days prior to your visit.

Must Read – Top places to visit in Bhutan

To reach Bhutan by road, you have to go through three border points in India. They are a) Jaigaon – Phuensholing Border, b) Gelephu and c) Samdrup Jongkhar. The Jaigaon – Phuentsholing border is preferred by most of the travellers as it is easily accessible and can get you the entry permit easily. If you are on tight budget, you can travel by local buses or else can hire a car or jeep to travel within Bhutan. It takes 4 hours to reach Phuensholing from Bagdogra Airport and around 6 hours to reach Thimphu from Phuensholing. Private taxis and buses are also available from Bagdogra, New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri which connects National Highway NH31 at Sevoke road and will take you to Thimphu.

Also Read – Why Bhutan’s Druk Trek should be on your wish list

FAQs About Bhutan

1. What is the best time to travel to Bhutan?                  

Any time of the year resonates well with a travel to Bhutan. However, the charm of the place is simply outstanding in the autumn and spring seasons which usually fall between the months of September to November and March to May respectively. The climate is warmer and pleasant at this time and the skies are clearer too. Also, many great festivals fall during these seasons.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan? How can I get it?                             

For any foreigner wondering How to Go to Bhutan from India , it is necessary to know that visa is essential to enter the country. It should be arranged, prior to the travel, through a licensed Bhutanese touring company or one of their international travel partners. Although other foreign nationals need to obtain a clearance beforehand, Indians and Bangladeshis can receive it upon entry. While it is approx. about $40 for others, Indians, Maldives nationals and Bangladeshis can get visa free of cost.

3. Is there need to get a tour operator for travelling to Bhutan?

Yes. As a rule of the Bhutan Government, you need to obtain a tour package to the country either through a licensed local tour operator or one of their international travel partners.

4. How is the food in Bhutan?

If your planning to Go to Bhutan from India , you simply mustn’t miss out on its yummy food. Bhutanese cuisine is known for being very spicy since the people like to use a lot of chilies in their food. Pork, beef and chicken are commonly eaten, with some vegetables alongside the main dish of rice.

5. Is Bhutan safe for solo travel?                  

Yes. Bhutan is one of the safest places for travelling, even if you are planning to go on a solo trip. It is perfect for travelling with your family and friends but backpackers too find the destination most attractive. Women travelling looking for a safe travel destination can very well choose this region for a memorable experience. Nevertheless, basic safety precautions are still advised and encouraged to be taken when travelling alone to the country.

6. What are the major attractions of the country?                                

The following attractions are the places that best answer How to Go to Bhutan from India and have most satisfying travel experience:

• Paro Taktsang
• Rinpung Dzong
• Punakha Dzong
• Tashichho Dzong
• Manas National Park
• National Museum of Bhutan
• JomolhariSimtokha Dzong

Ready to plan a trip to the Happiest Country in the World? Book our Bhutan Tour Packages and explore the royal monasteries and Dzongs

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Traveling in Bhutan: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Unless you're from a select few countries, such as India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, travel to Bhutan is expensive and not easily undertaken. However, the distinctive Buddhist culture, unspoiled scenery, and fresh mountain air make it very worthwhile. The number of people visiting Bhutan is increasing every year, reflective of growing interest in the country as a tourism destination. Here's what you need to know to plan your trip.

Tours and Independent Travel

The Bhutanese government is hesitant about allowing visitors into the country. Independent travel to Bhutan is opening up, but it's not something the government encourages. Generally, visitors to Bhutan must either be tourists or guests of the government. The only other options for visiting the country are to receive an invitation from "a citizen of some standing" or a volunteer organization.

With the exception of passport holders from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, all tourists must travel on a pre-planned, prepaid, guided package tour or custom-designed travel program.

Getting a Visa

Everyone traveling to Bhutan must obtain a visa in advance, except for passport holders from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. Passport holders from these three countries are classified as "regional tourists" and can obtain a free Entry Permit on arrival upon producing their passport with a minimum of six months validity. Indian nationals can also use their Voters Identity Card. Citizens of these countries must still pay a Sustainable Development Fee of $17 per day. An exemption applies to tourists visiting 11 specific districts in eastern Bhutan, from Trongsa to Trashigang. The Bhutanese government is aiming to increase tourism in this region.

For other passport holders, the Sustainable Development Fee is $65, which is included in the "Minimum Daily Package" rate (see below). The visa cost is $40. The visas must be applied for and paid for in advance, from registered tour operators (not embassies), at the same time as booking the rest of your trip. You should make your travel arrangements at least 90 days before travel to allow time for all the formalities to be completed.

The visas are processed through an online system by the tour operators and are approved by the Tourism Council of Bhutan once full payment of the cost of the trip has been received. Tourists are issued a visa clearance letter to be presented at immigration upon arrival at the airport. The visa is then stamped in the passport.

Getting There

The only international airport in Bhutan is located at Paro, about an hour's drive from Thimphu. Currently, two national airlines operate flights to Bhutan: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Departure points include Bangkok (Thailand), Kathmandu (Nepal), New Delhi and Kolkata (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Yangoon (Myanmar), and Singapore.

It's also possible to travel to Bhutan from India overland by road. The main border crossing is Jaigaon-Phuentsholing. There are two others, at Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.

The minimum price of tours (called a "Minimum Daily Package") to Bhutan is set by the government to control tourism and protect the environment, and can't be negotiated. The price includes all accommodations, meals, transportation, guides and porters, and cultural programs. Part of it also goes towards free education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation in Bhutan.

"Minimum Daily Package" prices vary according to the season and the number of tourists in the group.

High Season: March, April, May, September, October, and November

• $250 per person per day for a group of three or more people.
• $280 per person per day for a group of two people.
• $290 per day for single individuals.

Low Season: January, February, June, July, and August

• $200 per person per day for a group of three or more people.
• $230 per person per day for a group of two people.
• $240 per day for single individuals.

Discounts are available for children and students.

Do note that each tour operator has their preferred hotels. These are often the ones that cost less. Therefore, tourists should find out the hotels they've been assigned to, do some research about hotels in Bhutan, and ask to switch hotels if they are not satisfied. Most people assume they're stuck with a fixed itinerary and the hotels allocated to them. However, tour companies will, in fact, accommodate requests in order to keep business.

Tour Companies

The Bhutan Tourist Corporation Limited (BTCL) is highly recommended for making travel bookings to Bhutan. This company is owned by members of the royal family and advertises itself as Bhutan's number one travel agency since 1991. The drivers, guides, and accommodations provided are excellent. If you're interested in photography, see what Rainbow Photography Tours of Bhutan has to offer.

The Tourism Council of Bhutan also has a list of registered tour operators on its website.

The Bhutanese currency is called Ngultrum (BTN) and its value is linked to the Indian Rupee. The Indian Rupee can be used as legal tender in Bhutan, but the Ngultrum is not legal tender in India. There are a limited number of ATMs available.

Development in Bhutan

Bhutan is rapidly changing with a great deal of construction going on, particularly in Thimphu and Paro. As a result, these places have already started to lose their charm and authenticity. Visitors are advised to fly internally from Paro to Bumthang, in the heart of Bhutan, in order to experience the traditional Bhutan. If you're thinking about visiting Bhutan, it's better to go sooner rather than later!

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A Bhutan travel guide – all the information you need to visit the land of happiness

We just finished a 7 days Bhutan trip from India . And I can’t wait to share all the information with you guys on how to visit Bhutan, Bhutan travel from India, Bhutan travel packages, Bhutan travel cost and  post covid travel guidelines for Bhutan along with all the other general information needed to visit Bhutan. Before getting started, let me tell you that Bhutan is located in the Himalayas. It is an extremely beautiful country, very less populated and naturally blessed with unparalleled beauty of the Himalayas.

People from all over the world visit Bhutan. But, Indian tourists form a major chunk of Tourists visiting Bhutan. Since, it is a neighbouring country of India. And it is very easy to visit Bhutan from India. So, without further ado, let us get started with our Bhutan travel guide.

Table of Contents

How to reach Bhutan

Bhutan is a landlocked country. And hence it can only be reached by land or by air. Below is the details of these two ways of reaching Bhutan.

Reaching Bhutan by road

The nearest airport to Bhutan in India is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal. Indians usually take a road trip to Bhutan from Bagdogara. We also did the same. From Bagdogra you can take a taxi or a shared cab or a bus to the border of Bhutan.

Earlier, before the covid lockdown, Indian vehicles could enter into Bhutan with a road permit. But now, there is an additional charge per day levied on Indian vehicles entering Bhutan. Which is INR 4500/- per vehicle per day for four wheelers entering Bhutan from India, for the duration of their stay in Bhutan at the time of this writing . Do verify the latest charges if you are planning to drive to Bhutan. Also, charges are different for 2 wheelers and heavy vehicles. 

So, most of the Indian vehicles now drop tourists on the border town Jaigaon, right before entering into Bhutan. And from there, a Bhutanese vehicle picks the tourists up and takes them to Bhutan.

To reach from Bagdogra to Jaigaon by road takes around 4 hours to 5 hours.

So, if you are going to Bhutan through this route, try to start early in the morning. Take an early morning flight so that you reach Bagdogra by noon. And you comfortably cover the distance from Bagdogra to Jaigaon by evening. We did the same.

Obtaining the entry permit and entering into Bhutan by road

From Jaigaon , one can cross the India Bhutan Gate and complete the immigration formalities before proceeding further into Bhutan.

At the border of India and Bhutan, right besides the gate, there is an immigration office. You enter the office building from India, complete the formalities to obtain the permit. And when you exit from the building, you find yourself in Bhutan.

In the meanwhile, your luggage will be loaded in the Bhutanese vehicle that you would have booked for the tour. And the vehicle will cross the road and wait for you on the Bhutan side.

I have written this separate post on what all documents are required for Indians visiting Bhutan. And the whole process of obtaining the permit , explaining it clearly. Since, some rules around tour packages for Bhutan from India have changed post covid, do read that post to understand the whole scenario.

Note: When going from Bagdogra and returning, it’s good to book a local Indian cab till Jaigaon . And a Bhutan cab for the complete round trip of Bhutan from the border. When you return, the Bhutan vehicle will again drop you at Jaigaon. And from there you can hire an Indian vehicle for your onwards journey in India, ex., for Bagdogara airport. 

Reaching Bhutan by train

There is no rail network in Bhutan! Being a Himalayan country, it’s very difficult to lay and maintain rail network here. Hence, Bhutan has not invested into one. The nearest railway station is Hasimara in India. You can reach here via a train from Siliguri and some other major stations of India. But from Hasimara, you will have to hire a cab from here to Jaigaon and continue onwards accordingly. Siliguri on the other hand is a major train station in India, which is well connected from rest of India. So, you will get a train easily upto Siliguri town and from there you can take a cab to Jaigaon.

Reaching Bhutan by air

The only international airport in Bhutan is Paro International Airport . It is a very small airport, with a very small runway. And very limited flights operate here. From India, there are a few flights operating from Delhi. And then other flights are there connecting Bhutan to rest of the world. But a flight to Paro is often very costly. Having said that, if you decide to fly into Paro, you will be completing your arrival formalities and permit documentations at the Paro International Airport.

For Indians, another option to enter Bhutan by air (along with a 4-5 hrs road trip) is through Bagdogara airport in West Bengal. It is a small defence airport that has opened up to commercial flights as well. And there are flights to Bagdogara available from rest of the major airports in India including Kolkata, Bangalore, Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai. So, you can fly into Bagdogara and then take a taxi or cab to Jaigaon – the bordering town. As explained above in the section “Reaching Bhutan by Road”.

What are the documents required for visiting Bhutan

The residents of India, Maldives and Bangladesh don’t require any visa to enter Bhutan. Others need to apply for a visa. I am not aware of the visa application process. As being an Indian, I just required a permit to enter Bhutan. The permit stamp is done on the passport. And the following documents are required to visit Bhutan from India, Maldives or Bangladesh :

• A passport valid for at least next 6 months
• Government ID proof – voter Id card or Aadhar Card
• In case of minor, if they don’t have passport then Birth Certificate is required

Our agent also asked us to carry 4 passport size color photographs each, but they were not asked for anywhere. I have detailed out this complete process of obtaining the Bhutan travel permit from India.

Where to stay in Bhutan

If you are traveling by road, the first night of your stay in Bhutan, you will be staying in Jaigaon as you will reach here by evening most likely. Jaigaon is the town on the Indian side, on India – Bhutan border. We stayed at hotel Sheetal Residency in jaigaon, just 200 meters from the India – Bhutan gate. Basic rooms and in house restaurant. But it’s location was excellent. And a lot of shops nearby where you can find everything from food to umbrella to medicines – whatever you may need for your onwards journey.

You can also book Hotel Satyam , which is another decent option to stay in Jaigaon.

The next few nights you will most likely stay in Thimphu or Paro. Both these cities have multiple stay options from economical to mid-range to 5 star luxury resorts. If you are buying a package, you can ask your agent to book a hotel as per your preferred star category.

In Thimphu we stayed in Bhutan Boutique Hotel. It was a 3 star hotel located in the center of the town. And had all the required facilities. If you are looking for a slice of luxury in Bhutan, go for Taj Tashi hotel . It is a 5 star luxury hotel located in a heritage building. Here’s a complete list of hotels in Thimphu for you to browse through.

While in Paro we stayed at Zhideychen Resort .  Again, a comfortable 3 star hotel stay. Here’s a list of hotels in Paro .

If you are also planning to stay a few nights at Punakha like we did, then there are plenty of things to do and places to see in Punakha as well. But, I will highly recommend the hotel I stayed in Zhingkham Resort Punakha . This hotel is located further from the main town, uphill. From the room and the balconies one gets an excellent view of the whole Punakha valley from here. Look at the picture below to understand what I am talking about.

What are the general travel guideline changes for travel to Bhutan post covid

The travel guidelines to visit Bhutan have changed a little post covid. When Bhutan reopened it’s border to tourists in September 2022. I have tried to capture the changed guidelines in my Bhutan travel guide as per my experience.

• Taking a guide is a must for Indians as well as foreign nationals visiting Bhutan. The guide will accompany you where ever you visit in Bhutan. Earlier it was not a mandate, barring at some sightseeing places like forts and temples.
• Indians visiting Bhutan have to pay a SDF (Standard Development Fee) of INR 1200 per day per person (for everyone above 5 years of age). Earlier this was not the case. While Foreign Nationals have to pay US Dollars 160 per person per day at the time of this writing.
• Four Wheeler Vehicles from India entering Bhutan have to pay a fee of INR 4500 per day per vehicle for the duration they will be in Bhutan.
• The entrance fee to most of the sites have been hiked post the lockdown has opened. Most of the places it is Nu 500 per adult and Nu 250 per child elder than 5 years. Entry is free for children below 5 years of age.

What is the best time of the year to visit Bhutan

As per our Bhutan travel guide, Bhutan is almost an year round destination, barring the monsoon months when heavy rains cause frequent landslide in the area. However, the months of April and May are considered the peak season in Bhutan. It is spring season then. And the country comes alive with fresh greenery and blooming flowers at this time of the year. But, to experience the beauty of Bhutan in winter, when it gets covered in snow, one can visit from December through February. January is the coldest month in Bhutan. It snows and the temperature drops to sub zero at places. But this is also an off season due to the harsh weather, which means you get much better deals at much lower prices. The months of October and March form shoulder seasons.

When we visited Bhutan in April first week, Thimphu and Paro were still quiet chilly in the evening and morning hours. While Punakha was quiet warm in the day and pleasant in the evenings.

If you want to coincide your visit with one of the festivals of Bhutan, then you can visit as per the below festival timings. However,  our Bhutan travel guide suggests that do check the exact dates of the festival in the year you are traveling, for, they follow the lunar calendar. And hence, not fall on the same date of English Calendar every year.

Festivals of Bhutan

• Thimphu Tshechu festival which is also the National Festival of Bhutan is held on 10th day of 8th month of lunar calendar. In the year 2023, this festival will be celebrated from 24th to 26th September.
• Jambay Lhakhang Drup is celebrated in October – November. It is a fierce festival of energetic celebrations including dances, mask performances, fire performances etc.
• Wangdue Phodrang Tsechu is also celebrated in the Wangdue Phodrang region in October – November time period
• Punakha Drubchen is a festival celebrated in Punakha in February or March. It recreates the memories of the war with Tibet and celebrates Bhutan’s victory over Tibet through performances commemorating the same.
• Paro Tshechu Festival is celebrated in March or April. We just missed it by a day 🙁 when we reached Paro, it was the last day of the festival. Near the city center, huge fare is held, People dance, eat, shop, rejoice, re-inact scenes from legendary tales and enjoy themselves to the full. Even on the last evening of the festival, there was so much crowd and the whole atmosphere was so charged up.
• Haa summer festival is celebrated in the month of July, wherein the nomads of Haa Valley celebrate their lives. And the tourists also get a chance to mingle with the locals and celebrate.

What currency works in Bhutan

One Indian Rupees = One Bhutanese Ngultrum (Nu)

Indian currency is widely accepted in Bhutan. US Dollars are also accepted. Particularly, if you go shopping expensive items like gold, then US Dollars are preferred. And cash is accepted everywhere. We didn’t pay through card or any other means anywhere but only cash. So, just to be on safer side, we converted around 15k INR to Nu in Jaigaon. Also, the same agent who arranged our whole travel helped us with currency exchange as well. However, at times, it can be a problem to use very high value Indian notes in Bhutan. Like INR 500 and INR 2000 notes are not that well accepted everywhere. So, if you plan to do with Indian currency in Bhutan, then carry smaller denominations of notes with you.

What kind of mobile and internet connectivity works in Bhutan

• Wifi was available in all the hotels that we stayed in Bhutan. Although the speed was not very great at ours though.
• My husband who uses Airtel, got his international roaming enabled for Bhutan. At the time of this writing, Airtel had a package of INR 3000/- for 10 days.
• I took a local tourist sim with one week validity for INR 330/- which had a mobile data of 1.5 GB and some talk time (Which I forgot, how much it was because I hardly used it). From a shop in Phuentsholing, the border town on Bhutan side, right after crossing the gates. And the documents required to obtain this sim were my passport copy and the Bhutan travel permit copy.

Overall, our Bhutan travel guide suggests that you enable the international roaming in at least one phone when you are traveling with family or in a group. And when traveling solo, you should definitely enable it. Because if for some reason you will need to do some transactions where a message through your simcard is expected, you can do that only when you have enabled international roaming.

For us, we had to alter our travel plans and change the dates of our airline tickets for some reason, which needed some digital payment. Which in turn needed OTP on one of our phones. Since, Abhishek had international roaming enabled, we were able to do the same without any hassles.

What to pack for a trip to Bhutan

Actually what to pack for Bhutan depends on which time of the year you are traveling to Bhutan. As per our Bhutan travel guide, really heavy winter wear is required if you are traveling in the months of December, January and February. In these months you should carry good boots which can help you travel on snow, heavy winter jackets, layers of woollen cloths, caps, gloves, etc. When we traveled in the first week of April, these are the basic things we carried with us –

• 2 sweaters (woollen) each for kids
• 1 moderate jacket each for all of us
• 1 heavy jacket for kids – just in case it got suddenly cold
• 2 full sleeve t-shirts for everyone
• 2 half sleeve t-shirts for everyone
• 4 pairs of socks, 5 pairs of undergarments for everyone
• 1 woollen cap for everyone
• full cover bottom wear and full sleeve nightwear
• umbrella (as it may occasionally rain in these months)
• Trekking / hiking shoes
• Medicines, particularly for altitude sickness and motion sickness
• Some snacks and munchies that the kids like – just to satisfy their taste, Otherwise you have plenty of options in Bhutan.

If you are wondering how to pack light for your Bhutan travel, you can check these travel packing tips and tricks that we swear by. And if you want to know what all special things we carry to make our travel with our kids easier, checkout this post .

What is the language spoken in Bhutan

Bhutanese, English and Hindi are widely spoken in Bhutan. Most of the people understand Hindi well, and are able to converse in Hindi. While the travel guides in Bhutan receive training in different languages like Chinese, Spanish, French etc. while doing their certification for becoming a guide. So, if you don’t understand Hindi, English or Bhutanese then you can always ask your travel agent to provide you with a guide who knows the language you understand. Both our driver and our guide were very well versed in English as well as Hindi. So, it was a breeze to communicate while in Bhutan.

What kind of food is available in Bhutan

Some of the main cuisines of Bhutan that you will get in most of the restaurants include Ema Datshi, Shakam Paa, Jasha Maru, Puta, Suja, Goen Hogey, Dumplings and Shakam Datshi . I will soon dedicate a separate post on the cuisines available in Bhutan. In short, most of the Bhutanese dishes are bland, healthy and good for the mountain climate. I found very less junk food options in Bhutan.

While Indian and Indo-Chinese food is also abundant. We could get basic Indian food like Roti, Dal, Rice, Curries, Paneer Dishes. And Ind- Chinese dishes like chowmine, noodles, momo etc. almost everywhere. Some high end restaurants and resorts also have continental options like boiled veggies, roasted non vegetarian food, oats porridge etc. Bread and butter, puri – sabji, eggs and omelette are abundant as breakfast options.

Most of the hotels that we stayed in had limited but decent spread for breakfast, lunch and dinner. However, do note that the food availability window in Bhutan is short for every meal. For instance, breakfast may be available only from 7:30am to 9:00am.

What are the places to visit in Bhutan

As per our Bhutan travel guide, the three most popular places to visit in Bhutan are Thimphu, Paro and Punakha. Apart from these, there are many other valleys like the Haa Valley and many trekking trails that you can visit in Bhutan. As per our driver and guide, you need 15-20 days to explore Bhutan completely. However, most of the visitors limit themselves to Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.

In Phuentsholing, you can visit a few places like a zoo, Karbandi Monastery and crocodile breeding center.

There are many local places to see in Thimphu that include the Thimphu Dzong ( fort also called Tashichho Dzong) , Buddha Dordenma or the Buddha Point , Memorial Chorten, the oldest temple of Bhutan, Simply Bhutan experiencial museum, Bhutan Folk Heritage Museum, Art Museum, Takin Preserve (Takin is the national animal of Bhutan) etc.

While in Paro, the most popular site is the Tigers Nest Monastery that everyone wants to have on their itinerary. Apart from this, one can visit the Paro Weekend Market , Zuri Dzong Fort , Rinpung Dzong monastery , Drukgyel Dzong Monastery and many other scenic view points.

Visiting The Punakha Dzong and Punakha Fertility temple of Punakha are two most important things to do in Punakha . While visitors also enjoy river rafting in Punakha , a trip on the Punakha Suspension Bridge and visiting other nearby valleys from Punakha as a day trip. Some of these valleys are Haa Valley and Bumthang Valley .

What does a typical Bhutan travel itinerary look like

Most of the travel agents provide a Bhutan travel package of 5 nights 6 days. Wherein you spend the first night at Jaigaon. And then 2 nights each in Thimphu and Paro. But, I asked my agent to add one more day to my package to make it more relaxing. He made it a 6 nights 7 days package tour to Bhutan. And what I found was that I still made a mistake. A Bhutan travel package of 6 nights and 7 days might suit you if you are a group of adults interested to see only the highlights of Bhutan. Anything you want to explore beyond the towns of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, you need more days in your itinerary. Also, if you are traveling to Bhutan with kids , you must make a plan of minimum 10 days.

I have explained more about it in details in this detailed post : 7 days Bhutan trip itinerary from India with kids .  As the roads in Bhutan are more winding than some other Himalayan destinations that we have visited like Shimla and Manali or Palampur . And kids will need enough rest in between.

Shopping in Bhutan as per our Bhutan travel guide

As per my Bhutan travel guide, you can shop for handicrafts, Buddha Idols, musical bowls etc. in Bhutan. Then there are traditional paintings, but I found them to be very expensive. And cloths also are expensive. Having said that, you can buy small souvenirs from handicraft shops near the Thimphu Handicraft Museum. Or, from the local market in Paro. Compared to the kind of shopping I have done in Rajasthan in India or what one can do in Dubai , or similar such top shopping destinations , I found Bhutan had limited offerings. As such, we only bought a couple of refrigerator magnets from our trip to Bhutan.

General tips on visiting Bhutan as per our Bhutan travel guide

• Carry an umbrella with you when visiting in summer and spring months, as it rains all of a sudden in Bhutan
• You must wear good trekking shoes, particularly for trekking to Tiger’s Nest . As, it is a moderate trek and general walking shoes might not suffice.
• Use packaged water bottle while in Bhutan.
• Dispose of the waste properly in designated waste bins, There is heavy fine for littering in Bhutan.
• Our Bhutan travel guide says that it is a must to carry motion sickness medicines for winding Himalayan roads
• Take enough stops when traveling between places to further combat motion sickness
• Keep your passport and permits with you all the time. There are designated check posts where these documents will be checked as you travel through Bhutan.
• If you are traveling with your kids, make sure to carry all their general medication with you as you will not get the same brand in Bhutan. (Happened with us)
• Most of the shops close early in Bhutan., around 9:00pm
• Tipping the hotel staff, guide or driver is not a norm in Bhutan but it is a good gesture.

PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.

15 thoughts on “A Bhutan travel guide – all the information you need to visit the land of happiness”

You have provided a thorough Bhutan travel guide, blending personal experiences with practical tips. From visa information to cultural insights, it equips travelers with essential knowledge for a seamless journey. Engaging narratives and detailed itineraries make it a valuable resource for anyone planning to explore the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

I’m thoroughly impressed by your blog on Bhutan! Your vivid descriptions have transported me to this Himalayan paradise, and I can almost feel the tranquility emanating from the famous temples in Bhutan that you’ve written about. Your love for Bhutan shines through in every paragraph. Fantastic work!

Bhutan allure lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and embracing sustainable tourism practices. For travelers seeking a meaningful and enriching vacation experience.

Very descriptive guide about Bhutan, enjoyed the reading.

Thank you Ankita!!

Hi did you have the name of your guide?

Hello, I appreciate the information regarding your trip to Bhutan. Using a Makemytrip tour package, I intend to travel to Bhutan in December 2023 from Bagdora. suggest me do you have any inputs to travel in December month.

Hi Nagaraj. December will be colder so plz pack enough woollen. Apart from that, since you are going with a package tour from Makemytrip, rest everything will be smooth

Hi, I would like to visit Bhutan in Mar 2024 can you please give some references for Bhutan travel guide.Regards, Sonali

Hi Sonali, We booked our tour through Rudra Narayan who helps arrange trips to Bhutan, Sikkim and Darjeeling area. His contact number is : 7063570832

Hi, I would like to visit Bhutan Mar 2024 can you please give me some references of travel guide whom I can contact and ask for their services.

I want to travel to Bhutan on my Two wheeler, what are the charges per day for a two wheeler if I wish to enter Bbutan from India?

It is the same for two wheeler as well. INR 4500 per day per vehicle.

Can u please share the contact details of your tour guide. I plan to visit bhutan this month.

Sure, will share shortly

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Budget Travel Buff

How to Plan Bhutan Trip for 7 Days from India under INR 12000

Travelling gives you pleasure and fulfill your mind with joy and happiness not only when you are exhausted and frustrated in your daily work schedule, but also when life is getting boring day by day and if this traveling can be explored in a foreign country that too within a low budget then your first preference should be Bhutan, “ The Land of Thunder Dragon” and “ The Last Shangri La ”.

So plan a Bhutan trip from India that will offer you a rich culture, peace and serenity. Today I am going to share with you a detailed Bhutan travel guide with Bhutan itinerary for 7 days and Bhutan travel cost breakup.

PIN IT FOR LATER…

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

“Travelling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”- Ibn Battuta

So before going to exact budget plan details for a successful Bhutan trip let’s have an overview of which a traveler should be aware.

Specialty of Bhutan:

High gross National Happiness Index, Carbon Negative Country, One of the most Travel-Friendly Location in Asia, world-class scenic beauty.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan:

March, April, May, September, October, November but as it is all about a budget trip plan I will recommend to visit Bhutan in January or February(Though it is cold you can spend quality time with less price because of less traveler)

Official Language of Bhutan and SIM Card:

Dzongkha is the official language in Bhutan, more or less everybody can understand and speak Hindi and English . Travelers can collect a Bhutan sim card from the immigration office. B-Mobile and TashiCell are two popular Telecomm and data provider in Bhutan.

We took B-Mobile SIM card for Rs. 100 with a call balance of Rs. 100(Rs.4/Min charge to call in India) and also took a data plan of 1 GB for Rs. 100 which was enough for 7 night trip in Bhutan(Most of the hotels provide free WiFi to their guests)

Currency and ATM in Bhutan:

Bhutan’s currency is Ngultrum . They also accept Indian currency(except Rs. 2000). Ngultrum and INR both are of the same value there. ATM is also available in main cities but I will recommend carrying enough cash from Jaigaon before entering Bhutan as most of the time ATM runs out of money and secondly you can withdraw Ngultrum, not INR.

Bhutan Visa for Indian:

No visa is required for Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders . As we are Indian we just had to show original Voter Id (not Aadhaar card) or Passport and a passport size photo . It is better to keep a minimum of 4 copies of Id proof and 4-5 passport size photos. These are the documents required for visa in Bhutan . Travelers from other countries(apart from India, Bangladesh, Maldives) they will get the Bhutan visa permit on arrival in Phuentsholing or Paro.

Food in Bhutan:

Bhutanese cuisine is mostly influenced by Indian, Chinese and Tibetan food. The most famous Bhutanese dish is Ema Datshi which is served with chili and cheese which is a must-try for every traveler (It was not as hot as I would imagine). However, you will find several Indian restaurants in Bhutan.

How to Reach Bhutan:

By Air – Bhutan Airlines and DrukAir fly from Kolkata, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Singapore and Bangkok to Paro International Airport. While going to travel Bhutan from India, take a flight to Bagdogra from the airport nearest to you. You can also come by taking Delhi to Bhutan flight. I will recommend checking Skyscanner or Kayak to book a cheap flight . Jaigaon(Indo-Bhutan border) is a 3-4 hrs road journey from Bagdogra.

By Train – Hasimara is the nearby Indian Railway Station to the Indo-Bhutan border if you want to reach Bhutan by train. Board on Kanchankanya Express from Sealdah which goes directly to Hasimara . You have to take Cab or bus to reach Phuentsholing from Hasimara which charges Rs. 40-50 per person.

So we four travel freak friends started our long-awaited journey on 10th February(Sunday),’19 for Bhutan budget trip of 7 days from Sealdah Railway station at 8:30 pm. Kanchankanya Express(13149) was supposed to reach Hasimara railway station at 11:07 am on the next morning, but as usual, the train was late for 2.5 hrs.

We had already contacted a local experienced driver(Sanjeev) who is an expert to conduct a Bhutan budget tour. We hired a WagonR for our 8 days Bhutan budget tour for Rs. 2500/day basis. It was a 15 km distance from Hasimara to Jaigaon. Taxi or bus is also available to go to Jaigaon which costs Rs. 40-50 per person.

BHUTAN ITINERARY FOR 7 DAYS

Getting permit for bhutan:.

As we were already late for that day, we did not waste not a single time and directly went to the Immigration office of Bhutan crossing the border. You have to make a permit for Bhutan from here to travel in Thimpu and Paro, but to travel in Punakha you have to make another Punakha permit from Thimpu.

Generally, Monday used to be crowded due to the backlog of 2 days as the immigration office remains closed on weekend but luckily while we went to make a permit for Bhutan there was max of 5-6 people in the queue. Hereafter filling immigration form we have submitted it along with a passport size photo and a copy of our voter id or passport and got a token number.

Next, we had to go to the verification counter to verify our documents. After getting verified all documents we went to the next counter where fingerprint and photo were taken. All the processes were completed within 1 hour and our driver collected the permit. In between, we completed our lunch from a restaurant in Jaigaon.

Completing all the process we completed the two most important things before starting our journey to Bhutan. The first one was we withdrew a good amount of money(I took 14k INR) from the ATM of Jaigaon and then we bought some dry foods like puffed rice, chanachur, chire vaja , peanut, Maggi, biscuit, cake, potato chips, etc. for the breakfast and evening snacks of our entire Bhutan trip for 7 days.

It saved a good amount of money on our budget trip to Bhutan as food in Bhutan is quite costly(Later we found the Rs.5 Maggi in India was selling at Rs.15 in Bhutan).

Ultimately at around 4:30 pm we started our Bhutan budget tour towards Thimpu which is around 147 km from Phuentsholing. As soon as we crossed the border we felt the difference between two countries, there were fewer people with discipline everywhere you can literally feel the peace all around you.

We already decided previously that we won’t stay at Phuentsholing as there is nothing special to visit except Karbandi Monastery so that we can spend an extra day in Bhutan. We were dead tired when we reached our hotel “Welcome Home”(Rs.1200/Night) in Thimpu at around 9 pm. Our first day ended eating noodles at dinner from the hotel restaurant.

Best Places to Visit in Thimpu:

The next morning, we went to the immigration office to make the permit for Punakha. The weather was charming and the sky was also fully clear. While our driver was arranging this we were busy exploring the capital city of Bhutan which is not only enriched with its scenic beauty but also a combination of traditional and contemporary culture.

While roaming around to Thimpu city we found some local shops where local people were selling their traditional handmade crafts and pieces of jewelry but the price was a little bit higher. Taking some pictures of the Thimpu city and National Textile Museum(not worthy to visit, so we avoided).

National Memorial Chorten:

It is a Large white stupa with a golden spire on top which was built in memory of Third Druk Gyalpo. It is a place for daily worship of the Bhutanese. I found it better to take a snap from outside as the entry fee is a little bit high, Rs.300 is not justified.

Buddha Point:

It must be there in your ‘things to do in Thimpu’ list. The 50 meters tall Buddha Dordemna statue is one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. The whole statue is made of bronze and is gilded in gold that makes it more attractive on a sunny day. We got a great panoramic view of Thimpu city from here, which never fails to cease the viewer’s eyes.

The interior chamber of this statue has a painted wall that depicts Buddha’s life and a total of 125,000 miniature Buddhas are there. Though the total cost to construct this wonderful statue is more than 100 million USD still there is no entry fee for Buddha Point till now.

Folk Heritage Museum:

It is a 3-story house made with mud and timber which was built more than 150 years ago. A traveler can have a basic idea of the traditional Bhutanese culture and living. In addition, you can also have a taste of their hand made local wine and other traditional foods of Bhutan. The entry fee of the Folk Heritage Museum is Rs.50 per person.

Completing all the sightseeing we had lunch in a restaurant near Clock Tower Square. There are several restaurants of different ranges. We ordered mixed fried rice and two chicken item which total cost Rs.900 for 4 people.

You can explore the local market where from a little keyring to a big Buddha idol everything is expensive here. One thing you will surely notice that there is no rush to anyone, not even in the traffic, no horn, no chaos, everybody maintains a proper discipline here which will melt all tiredness after completing sightseeing.

We did not stay longer outside our hotel as the temperature was near around 3-degree centigrade. We ordered Roti and Paneer for dinner which costs around Rs.160 pp.

Best Places to Visit in Punakha:

Punakha is 85 km. distance from Thimpu at an altitude of 1242 m. and it is quite warmer compared to Thimpu.

Dochula Pass:

On the third day of our 7 days Bhutan itinerary we went to Punakha. On the way to Punakha, you have to cross Dochula(3100 m.) which is a pass between Thimpu and Wangdue. It was the first place in Bhutan where we got the first glimpse of snow. There were 110 small stupas constructed in memory of soldiers of Bhutan popular as Druk Wangyal Chortens.

You can have a mesmerizing 360-degree view of snow-covered Himalayan mountain range if lucky(while returning from Punakha to Paro we could not see anything for the cloudy weather). No doubt it was one of the best places in Bhutan where we spent more than 2 hrs. and click some amazing photos of Dochula Pass.

Punakha Suspension Bridge:

On the way, we had our lunch from a roadside hotel with Rice, Daal and Egg curry which cost Rs. 160 pp. You can try some delicious authentic Bhutanese food. We reached to Suspension Bridge at around 11 am. This is the longest suspension bridge of Bhutan built on Pho Chu river. Crossing the bridge is fun and it is one of the best things to do in Punakha. We got a nice view of Pho Chu river along with the green hills from the middle of the bridge.

Punakha Dzong:

It is the second oldest and second-largest Dzong in Bhutan which is an Administrative building of Punakha district. For each district, there is separate dzong and everywhere the entry fee is Rs. 300(guide included). So it’s better to visit one dzong instead of visit all that will save your time and money both.

Crossing the wooden bridge we entered the Dzong which is situated on the bank of Pho Chu(male) and Mo Chu(female) river. You will surely be amazed by the great architecture and open courtyards of the inside Dzong where the life of Buddha is described in detail with great artwork. Undoubtedly, Punakha Dzong is one of the must visit places in Bhutan.

After spending almost 2-3 hrs we left the Dzong and checked in to our Hotel Kinten(Rs.1100/Night) in Wangdue 15 km away from Punakha. It may not be the best hotel in Punakha, but the location, view from the hotel, basic amenities and service was really very good on that price. We completed our dinner with chicken wai wai(Rs. 60) and momo(Rs. 60) from a nearby restaurant and the taste was just awesome and food was very cheap as compared to other restaurants.

Book Cheap Hotels in Bhutan:

Tips: I personally recommend you to stay at Wangdue instead of Punakha because fooding and lodging both are cheap here compared to Punakha. Not only you can save money but also you can explore the Bhutanese life going into depth. We did not see a single tourist while we were roaming around the streets of Wangdue. The cold breeze and the silent atmosphere will surely allow you to extract the essence of pure Bhutan.

Phobjikha Valley:

It is a vast glacial valley at 3000 m above sea level which is 81 km from Punakha, a 2.5 hrs journey. This journey itself is very beautiful and the valley will give a breathtaking view with the black naked crane if you come in Winter.

Though this offbeat place of Bhutan was not in our 7 days Bhutan itinerary checklist at first but we were impressed when we found it in Guides by Lonely Planet app, my all-time friendly travel app .

Gangteng Monastery:

Gangteng Monastery is a 450 years old large monastery that consists of monk’s quarter, meditation center and small guest house. While returning from Phobjikha valley we visited this place and got an amazing scenic view which was totally free.

We had our lunch and dinner from the same restaurant and here are the details:

Lunch : Fried rice and Chilli chicken(Rs. 190 pp)

Dinner : Chicken wai wai and momo(Rs. 100 pp)

As we 4 friends shared our lunch and dinner it helped us to keep our Bhutan food budget in the limit.

Best Places to Visit in Paro:

Paro(125 km from Punakha) is the most beautiful city in Bhutan at an elevation of 2200 m which is enriched with its cultural heritage, religious sites and vivid scenic beauty and hence it is often called Switzerland of Asia.

National Museum of Bhutan:

After a three and half-hour-long journey, we entered this century-old museum where you will have a chance to see ancient Bhutanese artifacts, traditional Bhutanese clothes, statues, scrolls, pottery and many more. The National Museum of Bhutan entry fee was 50 INR.

We completed our lunch with mixed fried rice, chili chicken and chili pork. The taste was good but I won’t recommend trying pork for the high altitude in Bhutan. The total cost of our lunch was Rs. 900 for 4 people.

Later at night taking a little walk through the streets of Paro city we checked in to our hotel in Paro – “Hotel Blue Poppy”(Rs.1200/Night) as the temperature was around 2-3 degrees centigrade. We ordered Mixed Veg and Roti for our dinner from our hotel which was not up to mark and costs Rs. 100 pp. Food in Bhutan is comparatively expensive than India.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery:

This was the day we were waiting for from the very first day we planned our Bhutan budget trip. Whether you plan your Bhutan itinerary for 7 days or Bhutan itinerary for 6 days or 5 days, Tiger’s Nest Monastery must be in your itinerary for Bhutan. Having a healthy breakfast we started our trek to Taktsang Monastery, better known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery at around 9 am.

We trekked for almost 3.5 hrs. to reach to the top. On the way, we got snowfall also and that was totally unexpected. There is a cafeteria also on the midway of the Tiger’s Nest Monastery trek.

The trek was not so hard but the last 300 steps were really hard for us. You can also hire a horse for half of the way if you cannot hike. You will surely be mesmerized by the ambiance of the Taktsang monastery, all of your tiredness will be blown away with the surrounding calmness everywhere. Spending one hour we started our return trek and returned to the base at around 3:30 pm.

On the way, we completed our lunch with rice, daal and egg curry and that tasted like the best dish I have ever had as we were very hungry after the Taktsang Monastery trek. After that, we had no more activity and took a complete rest.

We took our dinner from a restaurant in the main city with roti and shahi paneer and for the first time, we tried Bhutanese food Ema Datshi(Rs. 80) from here which is Bhutan’s national dish made with chili and cheese which total costs Rs. 180 pp. Your Bhutan budget tour will incomplete if you don’t try their signature Bhutanese dish Datshi.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery Facts and Tips:

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery trek distance  covered more or less  10 km  on a round trip.
• The highest  elevation  of Taktsang Monastery trek:  10232 feet
• Opening Hours :
• October – March: 8AM- 13:00PM, and 14.00PM- 17.00PM.
• April – September: 8AM -13.00PM, and 14.00PM – 18.00PM.
• You have to buy  Tiger’s Nest Monastery ticket at Rs.500  from where the trek starts. Without a ticket, you can trek but cannot enter the monastery. Unfortunately, if you cannot complete your full trek money won’t be refunded.
• Carry a water filter bottle , biscuit, chocolate which will help you to get stamina also help you to save your budget(1 cup tea costs INR 120 in the cafeteria)
• Photography is strictly prohibited  inside the monastery.

Chelela Pass:

The next day at 9 am we started our journey to Chelela Pass(3988 m) which is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan . As it was February the road was covered with snow on both sides and our driver was driving very slowly as there was black ice which is very dangerous. We were stuck before 16 km of Chelela Pass due to road blockage, there is no sign of green rather we saw only snow-capped mountains and trees. You will be lost in the scenic beauty of Chelela with a cup of hot coffee.

While returning we stopped our car at a perfect bend from where we got a clear view of Paro International Airport. If you wish you can visit Rinpung Dzong which is quite similar to Punakha Dzong. We did not enter with an entry fee of Rs. 300, rather we captured some beautiful picture of the night view of Rinpung Dzong.

At lunch, we ordered rice, daal and gobi curry from a Bengali restaurant near Paro which costs around Rs. 160 pp. Our hotel in Paro was Blue Poppy that was 5 km away from main Paro city and the beauty of the surrounding was more spectacular than the main Paro city.

With less traffic, fewer people, this picturesque location is the ideal place for a nature lover to enjoy the essence of Paro. We completed our dinner with roti and matar paneer costs around Rs. 150 pp.

Tips: Book a hotel like Blue Poppy which is not in the main Paro city, it will help you to have a better view and also reduce your Bhutan cost and as we had reserved car so we could go to the main city whenever we wanted. P.S: Paro is costlier than any other city in Bhutan.

The next day taking a light breakfast with puffed rice and namkeen we started our journey for Hasimara. On the way near Phuentsholing we had our lunch with chole bature(Rs. 80) and reached to Hasimara at 3:30 pm. This is our complete Bhutan itinerary for 7 days.

If you have 3-4 more days in hand you can explore Buxa Jayanti additionally, as it is just 74 km from Hasimara.

Our train Kanchankanya Express(13150) started its journey at 4:48 pm and we arrived at Sealdah on the next day at 8:30 am.

Bhutan Travel Tips for Budget Tour to Bhutan:

• The Bhutan immigration office closes by 4 pm and remains closed at the weekend, hence plan accordingly.
• Smoking weed in Bhutan is strictly prohibited.
• No restriction for Alcohol in Bhutan, one can openly drink, even you can find alcohol in 9 out of 10 restaurants.
• Photography is prohibited in some Dzong, Monastery, Temple, Museum . Better take permission before capturing any picture.
• Follow traffic rules and always use zebra crossing while crossing a road to avoid fine.
• All Bhutanese people have a deep respect for their King and Queen. You will see the picture frame of King, Queen and Royal family of Bhutan at each restaurant and hotel. They don’t entertain any disrespect of the Royal family of Bhutan as well as religious sentiments. So make sure not to mock them anyway.
• Travel insurance in Bhutan is not mandatory.
• Road condition is very good in Bhutan so I will recommend coming here by land.
• Bhutan monitors the export of any antique. Buy Bhutanese handicrafts but not antique to avoid punishment.
• Try to book the hotel not in the main city to save your budget, you can find several budget hotels outside the main city which are better also.
• Do thorough research on Bhutan, make a list of Do Visit and Don’t Visit. For example, we keep Motithang Takin Preserve(you will see Bhutan’s national animal Takin with an entry fee of Rs.100) and National Memorial Chorten in our Don’t Visit list.
• Try to travel Bhutan in a group of 4-7 which will minimize your Bhutan travel cost .
• Indian food in Bhutan is pretty much available but a little bit expensive than the local Bhutanese dish.
• If you are a nonvegetarian try to compromise and go for veg to reduce your Bhutan budget.
• Though this post is related to budget travel in Bhutan but do not neglect Travel Insurance in Bhutan. You can buy World Nomad Travel Insurance which is the cheapest and best value for money policy.

BHUTAN COST BREAKUP

Now coming to the most important part of this blog: Detail list of expenses of my Bhutan budget tour:

* We went in a group of 4 people.

Transport Cost in Bhutan:

Train : Kanchankanya Express(Sealdah <> Hasimara) round trip: Rs.375*2= Rs.750

Cab : WagonR(Pick up and Drop Hasimara to Hasimara): Rs.2500/day for 8 days. (2500*8)/4= Rs.5000

Hotel Cost in Bhutan:

Thimpu : Hotel Welcome Home(Rs.1200/Night for 2 nights): (1200*2)/4= Rs.600

Punakha : Hotel Kinten at Wangdue(Rs. 1100/Night for 2 nights): (1100*2)/4= Rs.550

Paro : Hotel Blue Poppy(Rs.1200/Night for 3 nights): (1200*3)/4= Rs.900

Food Cost in Bhutan Tour:

Breakfast: We bought some dry foods like puffed rice, chanachur, chire vaja, peanut, Maggi, biscuit, cake, potato chips etc. for our breakfast and evening snacks. Total costs approx. Rs.300:(300/4)= Rs.75

Lunch: Avg. Rs.200 pp: (200*8)= Rs.1600

Dinner: Avg. Rs.200 pp: (200*8)= Rs.1600

Entry Fees: (I have enlisted the major places where we visited)

Folk Heritage Museum: Rs.50

Punakha Dzong: Rs.300

National Museum of Bhutan: Rs.50

Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Rs.500

Finally here is the total Bhutan Budget tour Cost: INR 11,975/Person for 7 Night 8 Days.

Please note: We plan our 7 days Bhutan itinerary on 10 th Feb,’19 which was offseason. The above-listed price may vary from time to time.

I hope this Bhutan travel guide will help you to plan your Bhutan itinerary on a low budget successfully.

If you have any queries or want me to cover any other places within budget then put your comment, I will try my best to do so.

Stay tuned with us and Please Subscribe to Our Newsletter to read such kind of Budget Travel related blogs.

Happy Travelling… 🙂

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27 Comments

Amazing …a budget friendly trip Bhutan

Thank you Shelly for your feedback. Stay tuned…

The whole trip to Bhutan is sequentially described with each and every minute details……will be very helpful for neew vistors to BHUTAN

Thank you Avishek for your kind comment. Stay in touch for more updates.

Nicely portrayed. The blog added a bit more excitement to my upcoming trip to Bhutan. Thanks.

Nice to hear from you Souritra. Explore Bhutan and don’t forget to add your budget saving suggestions in the comment box after your Bhutan trip. Happy traveling. 🙂

Hi, how did you arrange for the driver? I have a trip coming up and looking for options

Hey Ayan, thanks for reading the post. Sanjeev was our cab driver for the entire trip. You can directly contact him. Mob: +91-7365055476

please, You talk about the cost in RS. But we don’t understand this currency. Can you xplane?

Hi Remko, the post is all about a budget trip to Bhutan from India. That’s why I used the Indian currency INR(Rs.) and Bhutan’s currency is Ngultrum. 1 INR= 1 Ngultrum. Even you can use Indian money in Bhutan.

It gave me some good ideas and inspired me to go to Bhatan. We are exploring our next vacation and deciding between Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan, we plan to go with a small child so the more relaxing (while some treks are welcome) the better and Bhutan seems to meet this criteria. Thanks

Thank you Vaclav for your kind comment.

Superb article.Love it. Really helped a lot to plan my next Bhutan trip on a budget…

Thank you, Deepa for your appreciation.

Great article. Is it mandatory to arrange a vehicle? Can Indians roam around the country in public transport instead?

Arranging a vehicle is highly recommended. In major cities like Thimpu, Paro I saw private taxis but traveling by taxi might be costly.

This information from you helps alot. Thank you for sharing, May God bless you. Keep growing.

Thank you so much. It means a lot to me.

Hi guys we are planning for bhutan in the coming month….we r two friends planning for the trip…please help us make this trip success call us on 9561364124

hi Shashank, we are not a tour agency, but you can call Sanjeev, our driver in Bhutan. He is very friendly and helpful. Mob: 7365055476

Hoping to travel to Bhutan for 5 days .This budget planning article helps for exact same amount for 5 days and 2 ppl ryt?

It won’t be exactly same due to inflation but you can expect near around this budget.

very very informative and details narrated in lucratively, keep posting such helpful post !

Thank you Raghunath for your kind comment. Keep reading. 🙂

Hello. Thanks for the article. One thing I didn’t undertand is: are you from India? Because as far as I read, one must pay for a tour agency and saw no information about that. Thank you!

Hi Anne, yes, I am from India and for Indians visa is not mandatory but we also booked through travel agency and they managed all the hotel and car booking. If you are from other countries, you have to pay about $200-250 per day.

Very detailed post! We are planning to visit this year in May. I have noted the tips shared by you. I am sure this will be helpful in planning my Bhutan trip. Thanks.

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• 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour

Protected by the great Himalayas in the north and hugged by the ocean in the south, the Indian subcontinent cultivated its unique and splendid civilization throughout its long history. The incredible mahals and forts of ancient India, the mysterious temples and palaces of blessed Nepal, and the peaceful monasteries and towns of the hidden Bhutan - all of them will offer you a historical and cultural feast.

This 14-day trip will take you to experience the essence of India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It could be the trip of a lifetime.

• Best For: First-timers
• Price: from US$5,199 p/p

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Tour Highlights

Visit the great monuments in Delhi to find the trails of the great dynasties in Indian history.

Witness the miracle in the history of architecture and the symbol of true love, the Taj Mahal

Immerse yourself in the stories of the maharajas in the 'Pink City', Jaipur.

Travel back in time to the Middle Ages in the temples and the palaces that are hidden in the Kathmandu Valley.

Find the most beautiful monastery in Punakha and experience the inner peace brought by Tibetan Buddhism.

Visit Taktsang Monastery to see where the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, Padmasambhava, meditated.

Suggested Route

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Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful India, Nepal, and Bhutan tour for you.

Welcome to India. Meet our representative in the arrival hall of the airport and then he will escort you to your hotel and help you checking in.

Visit the biggest Mosque in India, Jama Masjid , to see how the Islamic and Indian cultures combine in this great architectural structure. Imagine how magnificent and solemn it is when 20,000 Muslims pray there. Then, take a rickshaw ride through the bustling Chandni Chowk market to the Red Fort .Explore this magnificent architecture of the Mughal dynasty.

In the afternoon, continue your visit to Qutub Minar . where Qutbuddin Aibak announced the advent of the Muslim sultans. It is a symbol of victory.

Drive to Agra in the morning and explore the erstwhile capital of the Mughal Empire. After lunch, visit Agra Fort , which is also called Red Fort. Imagine the luxurious lifestyle of the royal family in this fantastic palace. Don't forget to view the Taj Mahal in the distance from the Khas Mahal, feeling the loneliness of Shah Jahan as he missed his loved one. Then you will visit Mehtab Bagh for a romantic sunset view of the Taj Mahal. The Yamuna River flows between the garden and Taj Mahal peacefully, just like Shah Jahans love to his wife has never stopped.

Visit the Taj Mahal in the early morning. The closer you walk to this ivory-white marble mausoleum, the more moved you will be by the spectacular architecture and the true love that sparked its creation. It is a miracle in the history of architecture and also a symbol of the most beautiful emotion of human beings

And then you will visit the Itmad-ud-Daula (the baby Taj Mahal) and be impressed by the thousands of beautiful inlaid patterns.

You will be driven from Agra to Jaipur in the afternoon.

On the way to Amber Fort, you will have a picture stop at the landmark of Jaipur, the Hawa Mahal . After entering the Amber Fort, you will feel that you have stepped back in time to the great dynasty. The corridor with elegant pillars, the lovely colors of the patterns on the walls, and the shining mirrors in Sheesh Mahal, any of them can make you forget to leave.

In the afternoon, continue your visit to Jaipurs City Palace . The abundant exhibits will highlight what life was like for the maharajas of Jaipur. Then visit the Jantar Mantar . Be impressed by the wisdom of the ancient Indians.

Visit the less touristy Nahargarh Fort in the morning to get a great view of Jaipur. It was originally built to enhance the city defenses and eventually became a summer house for the royal family. Your guide will show you the living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, washrooms, and cloakrooms of the maharajas and their wives. The beautiful colors on the walls of each room will impress you because of the natural resources they came from. The maharajas and their wives have gone forever now only the monkeys live nearby, guarding this old but beautiful fort.

You will fly from Delhi to Kathmandu. You will walk around Kathmandu Durbar Square . You will get excited when the old temples and palaces come into view one by one. The whole square looks like a museum in the open air. You will travel back in time to the Middle Ages.

In the late afternoon, move to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) ,which is a great place to enjoy the sunset and the birds-eye view of Kathmandu.You will find out how well Hinduism and Buddhism combine there. The eyes on the pagoda seem to have a magical power, which can comfort your mind.

Explore the most magnificent square in the Kathmandu Valley. Patan Durbar Square will impress you with the stone carvings in Krishna Mandir, the amazing religious artworks in Patan Museum, and the exquisite pool for the king in Sundari Chowk.

Visit Pashupatinath Temple in the afternoon, which is the most important Hindu temple in Nepal. You can feel the spiritual strength even if you are not a Hindu. Dont be surprised if you see a funeral at a cremation ghat it could be a moment that stuns your soul.

Continue to Boudhanath Stupa to experience the piety of Tibetan Buddhism. Join the monks as they walk around the pagoda to immerse yourself in the culture of Tibetan Buddhism.

Take a morning flight to another secret place hidden in the Himalayas. You will be driven to the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu from Paro.

On the way, you will visit the Buddha Dordenma .It is a massive golden statue of Shakyamuni on top of a hill and 125,000 smaller Buddha statues have been placed within it.

Afterward, visit the Memorial Chorten . This large Tibetan-style chorten is a landmark of Thimphu. For many Bhutanese, it is where they perform their daily worship.

You will start your Thimphu exploration with Tashichho Dzong . Tashichho Dzong has traditionally been the seat of the Dharma Raja and the summer capital of the country. It is the headquarters of the central government, just like the White House in America, Downing Street in Britain, and Zhongnanhai in China.

Visit the Folk Heritage Museum to discover the Bhutanese folk heritage and rural history and visit the National Library of Bhutan , which houses a collection of sacred religious books and priceless Buddhist manuscripts.

Finally, you will visit Bhutan Post Office Headquarters where you can make stamps with your own photos and put them on postcards for your family and friends.

On the way to Punakha, you will visit Simtokha Dzong and Dochula Pass . At the Dochula Pass where you can have a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. You will be impressed by the snowcapped mountains and the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.

In the afternoon, you will explore the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong. It is also the most important dzong in Bhutanese history and is known as 'the palace of great happiness or bliss'.

You will be driven from Punakha to Paro in the morning. Visit Paro Dzong in the afternoon.The dzong has a long and fascinating history. Its full name is Rinpung Dzong, which means the fortress on a heap of jewels.

Afterward, you will visit the Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan .The museum has a fascinating collection of arts, relics, religious thangka paintings, household items, arms, handicrafts, stuffed animals, and Bhutan's famous stamps, among others.

After breakfast, you will take an excursion to Paro Takts ang. It will take approximately 5 hours on a round-trip walk. Paro Taktsang is one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan. There are 13 taktsang or "tiger lair" caves in which Padmasambhava meditated. This site has been recognized as a sacred place and was visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. It is visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. It is worth hiking all the way there to explore one of the top 10 monasteries in the world.

Enjoy your free time in the afternoon.

Your guide will escort you to the airport for your flight back home or to your next destination.

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

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Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• 4-star accommodations for 13 nights
• Meals mentioned in the itinerary
• Flights mentioned in the itinerary
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-in-87

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Money Report

Think Bhutan's $100 daily tourism fee is pricey? It could go even higher, says prime minister

By monica pitrelli,cnbc • published 4 hours ago • updated 4 hours ago.

Bhutan may reconsider its controversial $100 daily tourism fees if the country's tourism industry recovers soon, Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay told CNBC on May 10.

But the fees are likely to go higher, he said.

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Bhutan reopened its borders in September 2022 with an increased "Sustainable Development Fee" of $200 per person per day in place. In 2023, the country lowered the fee to entice travelers to stay longer , before halving the fee across the board. 

The current daily fee — $100 for adults and $50 for children aged six to 12 — is described as a "time-limited incentive" valid until Aug. 31, 2027, according to Bhutan's Department of Immigration.

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But Tobgay indicated that the fee amount could change before that date.

"We're going to have a quota of 300,000 tourists," Tobgay said. "And if the demand to come into Bhutan to visit far outstrips our capacity to welcome them we might even have to increase sustainable fees at that time."

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"That will be a welcome development," he added.

A slow return of international travelers

Bhutan's tourism industry is recovering slower than other countries in Asia — a situation which Tobgay said he expects will quickly change.  

"The moment we start marketing our country and what is available … I think there will be a beeline to visit Bhutan," he said.

Bhutan welcomed 315,599 international visitors in 2019, 73% of whom were from India, according to an annual report published by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.

Last year, the country welcomed around 130,000 tourists, Tobgay told CNBC.

Bhutan is targeting 300,000 tourist arrivals per year, half of which would be from "third countries" and "dollar-paying visitors," according to a manifesto from Tobgay's People's Democratic Party.

Indian travelers pay a reduced fee of 1,200 Bhutanese ngultrum ($14.50) per night, and daytrippers from India are exempt from the fee, according to Bhutan's Department of Immigration.

Fee changes following Covid

Before Bhutan closed its borders in March 2020 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, travelers were required to pay a daily package rate that started at $200 per day. The rate often included hotel, transportation and tour guide costs, and the mandatory $65 Sustainable Development Fee.

Now, those costs are in addition to the $100 Sustainable Development Fee.

Tobgay acknowledged that the changes to Bhutan's Sustainable Development Fees have caused "a lot of confusion." Still, he said he's confident the current rate of $100 will allow the country to meet its recovery goals very quickly.  

"Truth be told, I think $200 per day as a sustainable development fee many tourists are willing to pay," he said, especially "when guests find out the proceeds from the Sustainable Development Fee are used to protect our natural environment, to provide free education and free health care to our citizens."

"Most tourists are delighted that they can play a small part — a small meaningful part —  in the sustainable development of Bhutan," Tobgay told CNBC.

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