Why Visit Bhutan?
Bhutan is not just a tourist destination. It is an experience. Here, Gross National Happiness is more important than GDP. You will find untouched nature, majestic monasteries, colourful festivals, and kind-hearted people.
As an Indian traveller, you get a lot of benefits while visiting Bhutan. There is no visa required, and the daily fees applied to foreign tourists are not charged from Indians. That’s a big reason why many Indian travellers choose Bhutan for peaceful and budget-friendly holidays.
Entry Points to Bhutan from India
There are two main ways to enter Bhutan — by road and by air.
1. By Road – Entry through Jaigaon-Phuentsholing Border
The most popular route is via Jaigaon in West Bengal. It shares its border with Phuentsholing, the Bhutanese town on the other side.
How to reach Jaigaon:
By train: Nearest railway station is Hasimara (17 km). It is well-connected to New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, and Kolkata.
By bus: You can take a bus from Siliguri to Jaigaon (around 6 hours).
By cab: You can also hire a taxi from Bagdogra Airport or Siliguri.
From Phuentsholing, you can get your permits done and continue to Thimphu, Paro, or other destinations in Bhutan.
2. By Air – Direct Flights to Paro
You can also fly from India to Bhutan. Bhutan’s only international airport is in Paro.
Direct flights available from:
Delhi
Kolkata
Bagdogra
Guwahati
Only two airlines operate here — Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. Flights are scenic but costlier than road travel.
Permit for Indian Citizens
Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. But, you need a permit to travel beyond Phuentsholing or Paro airport.
Documents Required:
Valid passport or Voter ID card
Two passport-size photographs
Hotel booking proof
Travel itinerary
Where to Get the Permit:
If entering by road, get it from Phuentsholing Immigration Office
If entering by air, get it at Paro Airport
The permit allows travel to Thimphu and Paro. For visiting other places like Punakha, Bumthang, or Haa Valley, you need a special permit, which you can get from the Immigration Office in Thimphu.
Important: Immigration offices are closed on weekends and Bhutanese holidays.
Budget to Travel Bhutan from India
Bhutan is budget-friendly if you plan smartly. Here’s a rough idea of cost for a 6 to 7-day trip from India.
1. Transport Cost:
Train to Hasimara (from Kolkata/NJP): ₹500–₹800
Shared taxi to Jaigaon: ₹100–₹300
Bus from Phuentsholing to Thimphu: ₹300–₹500
Local transport in Bhutan: ₹1000–₹1500 for shared cabs or ₹3000+ for private taxis
2. Stay:
Budget hotels and guesthouses: ₹800–₹1200 per night
Mid-range hotels: ₹1500–₹3000 per night
3. Food:
Simple local meals: ₹150–₹300 per meal
Indian restaurants are also available in Thimphu and Paro
4. Permit & Entry:
Permit for Indian citizens: Free
No daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indians till Dec 2024 (in some areas only)
From 2024 onwards, Bhutan may implement ₹1200 per day SDF for Indians in certain zones — always check updates before planning
5. Total Trip Budget:
Shoestring Budget: ₹8000–₹12000 (for 6 days)
Comfortable Budget: ₹15000–₹20000 (with better hotels and private transport)
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Spring (March to May): Best weather and lots of greenery
Autumn (Sept to Nov): Clear skies and Tsechu festivals
Winter (Dec to Feb): Snow in high areas but cold; good for budget travel
Avoid Monsoon (June to August): Roads may get blocked due to rain
Mobile Network & Currency
Indian SIM cards don’t work well in Bhutan. Best to buy a Tashi Cell or B-Mobile SIM in Phuentsholing or Paro.
Bhutanese currency is Ngultrum (BTN), equal to Indian Rupee. Indian currency is accepted, but ₹2000 notes are not always taken.
Some Travel Tips
Carry photocopies of ID and permit
Respect local customs and dress decently at monasteries
Avoid smoking in public
Carry warm clothes even in summer (weather changes fast in mountains)
Do not rely on internet everywhere — network can be weak in some valleys
Official Travel Info
For the latest and verified information about Bhutan tourism, permits, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), and certified tour operators, you should visit the official website of the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB). It’s a government-run portal with all the updated travel guidelines and policies.
👉 Official site: https://www.bhutan.travel
Before planning your Bhutan trip, it’s a good idea to check this website for any recent updates or requirements, especially related to permits or road conditions.
Final Words
Travelling to Bhutan from India is a peaceful, budget-friendly, and soulful experience. The connection between India and Bhutan is not just geographical, but emotional too. Whether you go by road or air, you’ll come back with unforgettable memories.
During your Bhutan journey, don’t miss the iconic Paro Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It is one of the most spiritual and scenic places in Bhutan. I’ve already written a detailed travel guide on it — Paro Taktsang – A Travel Guide. Do give it a read to plan your hike better.
Also, if you’re interested in Bhutan’s most vibrant festivals, check my blog on Tsechu Festival – 2025 — dates, places, and tips for Indian travellers.
