There are two ways into Bhutan: by air to Paro International Airport, or by road through one of the southern border towns. Most Indian travellers drive in via Phuentsholing, while most international visitors fly into Paro. Many itineraries combine the two, for example flying in and driving out.
By air: Paro International Airport
Paro (PBH), at about 2,235 m, is Bhutan's only international airport. The approach winds between forested ridges before a steep turn onto the runway, so only specially trained pilots are certified to land here. Two Bhutanese airlines operate international flights:
- Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines), the national carrier.
- Bhutan Airlines, a private airline.
Routes to Paro currently or seasonally include Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Mumbai, Gaya, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Bangkok and Singapore. Schedules change by season, so check current flights before you plan. We are happy to help with bookings.
Window seat tip: On the Kathmandu–Paro flight, sit on the left side when flying into Paro for views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kangchenjunga on a clear day. From Delhi, the left side also gives the best Himalayan views.
By road from India
Three land border crossings are open to tourists. All of them connect with India's road network.
Phuentsholing (from Jaigaon, West Bengal)
This is the most popular land entry, and it is close to our base in Siliguri. Phuentsholing sits right across the border from the Indian town of Jaigaon.
| From | Distance to Phuentsholing | Approx. drive |
|---|---|---|
| Bagdogra Airport (IXB) | ~165 km | 4 – 5 hours |
| New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) | ~155 km | 4 – 5 hours |
| Siliguri | ~155 km | 4 – 5 hours |
| Hasimara Railway Station | ~18 km | 30 – 40 minutes |
From Phuentsholing it is a scenic drive of about 5–6 hours (around 150 km) up to Thimphu or Paro. Indian nationals get their entry permit here, or online in advance (see Visa / Entry Permit).
Gelephu (from Assam)
Gelephu, in south-central Bhutan, is the gateway to central Bhutan, Zhemgang and the Royal Manas area. It is also the site of the planned Gelephu Mindfulness City. The drive to Thimphu takes about 7–8 hours through the Wangdue and Punakha region.
Samdrup Jongkhar (from Guwahati, Assam)
Samdrup Jongkhar is about 3 hours from Guwahati. It is ideal for travellers starting in eastern Bhutan (Trashigang, Mongar, Trashi Yangtse) and crossing the country westward. Allow at least 3–4 days to reach Thimphu while sightseeing on the way.
Combining air and road
A popular plan is to drive in via Phuentsholing and fly out from Paro, or the other way round. You avoid backtracking on the long road and see both the subtropical south and the high central valleys. We arrange pickups from Bagdogra, NJP, Siliguri and Hasimara, and drop-offs anywhere you like.
Getting around inside Bhutan
There are no railways in Bhutan. Travel within the country is by road, in a private vehicle with a driver and a licensed guide. Roads are winding mountain highways, so distances take longer than you might expect. A short domestic flight connects Paro with Bumthang and Gelephu, which saves time on longer itineraries when operating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nearest airport to Bhutan from India?
For the road route, Bagdogra (IXB) in West Bengal is the nearest major airport to Phuentsholing, about 4–5 hours away. You can also fly directly into Paro from Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra or Guwahati.
Can I travel to Bhutan by train?
There is no railway in Bhutan. The nearest railway stations are Hasimara (about 18 km from Phuentsholing) and New Jalpaiguri (NJP), from where we can pick you up by road.
Do you offer pickup from Siliguri, NJP or Bagdogra?
Yes. Our office is in Siliguri, and we regularly arrange pickups from Siliguri, NJP, Bagdogra and Hasimara for Bhutan tours.
Last updated: 15 October 2026
