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Bhutan General Information

Thimphu, Bhutan

Thimphu, the vibrant capital of Bhutan, is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, known for its stunning monasteries, bustling weekend market, and the iconic Tashichho Dzong.

Getting to Bhutan

Throughout most of its history, Bhutan was isolated from the rest of the world due to its remote location, difficult terrain, and the political decisions made by its leaders. Access to the country was only possible on foot through two main entry points from the south and north, crossing the plains of Assam and West Bengal or the high passes from Tibet.

However, with the start of planned economic development in the early 1960s, Bhutan’s accessibility dramatically improved with the construction of motorable roads, particularly the National Highway, connecting the country’s 20 regions to each other and the outside world.
Nowadays, the primary ways to enter Bhutan are through the border town of Phuntsholing in the south connecting with the Indian state of West Bengal, and the border towns of Samdrup Jongkhar and Gelephu linking with the Indian state of Assam, which are temporarily closed for foreign tourists since the reopening of tourism after COVID 19. However, updates on reopening will be provided. Another major entry point is the town of Paro, home to Bhutan’s first international airport and the base of operations for Druk Air, the national airline.
Wild Nature Quest can arrange to meet you at any of these entry points, based on your interests and itinerary. At the end of your trip, we will also accompany you to your departure point and look forward to serving you again on your next visit to the eastern Himalayas.

Travel by Air

Paro Airport, Bhutan

Bhutan’s only international airport is located in Paro, in western Bhutan. The airport sits at an elevation of 7,300 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level and is serviced by two Bhutanese airlines: Druk Air (also known as Royal Bhutan Airlines) and Bhutan Airlines. These airlines offer international flights to destinations such as Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bodhgaya, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Dhaka, and Singapore. The flight into Paro is known for its stunning views of some of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mount Everest.

Both Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines have a baggage allowance of 30 kilos per passenger for checked-in luggage, with hand carry bags limited to dimensions of 45 + 35 + 20 cm and a weight limit of 5 kilos. There are also three domestic airports in Bumthang, Trashigang, and Gelephu, with Drukair operating flights between them twice a week. Plans are underway to upgrade Gelephu airport in southern Bhutan into another international airport.

You can book your flight to Bhutan by visiting the airlines’ websites, but if you need assistance, the team at Wild Nature Quest is here to help you make your flight reservations without any additional charges.

Travel overland in Bhutan

Traveling to Bhutan by Land

Overland Entry Points into Bhutan: Phuntsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar

For international travelers, Bhutan offers three open land border crossings: Phuntsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Phuntsholing

Located approximately 170 km (106 miles) east of Bagdogra in India, Phuntsholing is the most convenient entry point from West Bengal’s Jaigaon. Once you cross the border, your journey continues through Bhutan’s mountainous terrain on a scenic winding road leading to Thimphu, the capital city. This 176 km (109 miles) route typically takes around six hours to complete.

Gelephu

Situated about 250 km (155 miles) south of Thimphu in central Bhutan, Gelephu serves as another entry point. Travelers using this route pass through sub-tropical forests before ascending into the Alpine region, eventually reaching Thimphu after a ten-hour journey through three districts. However, please note that as of now, the Gelephu border remains closed to international tourists following the reopening of Bhutan’s tourism sector post-COVID.

Samdrup Jongkhar

Samdrup Jongkhar, located on Bhutan’s eastern border with Assam’s Darranga district in India, is the only open entry point in eastern Bhutan. Approximately 150 km (93 miles) from Guwahati, the state capital of Assam, the journey from Guwahati Airport to Samdrup Jongkhar takes about four hours.

After being closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Samdrup Jongkhar border has recently reopened to international tourists, presenting a unique opportunity to explore Bhutan’s eastern gateway. While Wild Nature Quest is fully prepared to assist travelers planning to use this route, please note that scheduled tours in this region will only begin by late 2025.

Current Overland Options

At present, only two land border crossings—Phuntsholing in the south-central region and Samdrup Jongkhar in the southeast—are open to international travelers. Should you consider planning a trip through one of these borders, please reach out to us.

Hassle-Free Assistance with Wild Nature Quest

Wild Nature Quest ensures a smooth and stress-free border crossing experience. Our team is available to meet you at your designated entry point, aligned with your itinerary, offering:

  • Baggage Management: Ensuring your luggage is safely handled.
  • Refreshments: Providing a warm welcome and refreshments after your journey.
  • Personalized Support: Assisting you with settling into your accommodations or starting your tour immediately, depending on your preference.

Explore Bhutan with ease and comfort—your journey begins with Wild Nature Quest.