Getting Into Bhutan
Arrive by Air
Bhutan welcomes international travelers through Paro International Airport, the country’s only international airport, beautifully situated in the scenic Paro Valley. Known for its breathtaking Himalayan approach, flying into Bhutan is considered one of the world’s most memorable travel experiences.
The country is served by two national carriers — Drukair and Bhutan Airlines — offering comfortable and reliable connections to major cities across South and Southeast Asia.
International Flight Connections
Direct flights to Paro operate from:
- Dhaka
- Bagdogra
- Guwahati
- Kolkata
- New Delhi
- Kathmandu
- Singapore
- Bangkok
Due to Bhutan’s mountainous terrain and weather conditions, flights are generally operated during daylight hours and schedules may occasionally vary.
Arrive by Road
Phuentsholing & Samtse
The most commonly used entry routes into Bhutan, especially for travelers arriving from West Bengal and Assam. Phuentsholing serves as Bhutan’s main commercial gateway and connects smoothly to Thimphu and western Bhutan via well-maintained highways.
Gelephu
An important southern gateway for travelers entering from northeastern India. The route offers scenic landscapes and access to central Bhutan’s cultural and natural highlights.
Samdrup Jongkhar
The primary entry point for eastern Bhutan, connecting travelers from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh into one of Bhutan’s most culturally rich and less explored regions.
Travel Within Bhutan
Traveling within Bhutan is most comfortable through private vehicles arranged by tour operators, hotels, or licensed transport providers, as self-driving for international visitors is generally not permitted. Journeys across the country are scenic and rewarding, offering breathtaking mountain roads, peaceful valleys, and charming traditional villages along the way. Bhutan also has a small domestic air network connecting different regions of the country through Paro Airport, Bathpalathang Airport, Gelephu Airport, and Yonphula Airport. Domestic flight schedules may occasionally vary due to weather conditions and the mountainous terrain, particularly in eastern Bhutan.
Helicopter Services
Bhutan currently has two helicopter service providers offering chartered flights across the country for medical evacuations, scenic aerial journeys, heli-hiking adventures, rescue operations, and private transfers. Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services and Heli Bhutan operate flights based on suitable weather conditions due to Bhutan’s mountainous terrain.
For a smooth and enjoyable travel experience, visitors are encouraged to consult their travel host or local tour specialist in advance for transportation arrangements, flight schedules, and travel guidance throughout the country.
