Going on a Bhutan trip from India is an eventful experience. There are only two ways you can approach Bhutan from India either by air or by road. This journey gives you an adventure filled with Himalayan landscapes, dense forests, rich culture, and hilltop monasteries. You can choose from many budget Bhutan tour packages from India.
Bhutan, called the "Land of the Thunder Dragon", is where you can experience a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual charm. Here’s a handy guide to a Bhutan tour plan from India.
Step 1: Bhutan’s Permit Requirements
Before you start planning your Bhutan tour, understand the entry requirements that this South Asian country strictly follows. When Indians do not need a visa to enter Bhutan, they must carry a valid passport or a voter ID card (VIC). The passport must have at least 6-month long validity.
Additionally, Indians must obtain their entry permits (e-visa clearance) before they enter Bhutan. This entry permit is issued by the Department of Immigration located at Phuentsholing.
Tourists below 18 need to show their original birth certificate or passport. They must have a legal guardian. A licensed tour operator will guide you to Bhutan entry permits.
Step 2: Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Well, the best time is March-May and September-November when you can tour Bhutan comfortably. However, it depends on what you want to experience in Bhutan.
Spring (March to May): This is the ideal time for nature lovers since the valleys in Bhutan come alive with blooming flowers and the weather becomes comfier.
Autumn (September to November):If you are planning outdoor activities like trekking with clear skies and incredible Himalayas views, autumn is the best time to visit Bhutan.
Winter (December to February):December, January, and February are the coldest months in Bhutan. And, you may experience snowfalls in places like Paro Valley and Thimphu.
Monsoon (June to August): Bhutan comes with heavy rainfall during monsoon season, which might limit your outdoor activities and sightseeing. While nature becomes more incredible this time, landslides and road blockages are common.
Avail of cost-effective Bhutan tour packages from a licensed travel agency.
Step 3: Choosing Your Mode of Travel
If you are traveling to Bhutan from India, you can either travel by flight or road.
By Air: The quickest and most comfortable way is to fly to Paro International Airport in Paro Valley. This airport is well-connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bagdogra. Druk Airline maintains flights from Bagdogra Airport to Paro International Airport.
By Road: For a more enjoyable India to Bhutan tour, you can take a private cab or take a bus from the Indian state of West Bengal to reach the border town of Bhutan Phuentsholing via Jaigaon.
Step 4: Planning Your Itinerary
Here’s a guide to planning a week-long Bhutan trip:
Day 1: Arrival in Paro Valley
Board a flight to Paro International Airport and upon your arrival, your tour guide will pick you up in a private cab. Check into your hotel/resort in Paro Valley, freshen up, have some meals, and get ready for outdoor sightseeing.
On the first day, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong. It is a fortress and monastery with spectacular architecture, offering scenic landscapes.
After that, you can visit the National Museum of Bhutan to learn about the country’s unique history and culture, located near Rinpung Dzong. You can customize Bhutan tour packages from India to make your trip extra special.
Day 2: Paro to Thimphu
On the second day of your Bhutan trip, your tour guide will transfer you to Thimphu, the capital city. Thimphu and Paro are around 1 hour and 20 min apart.
Check into your hotel in Thimphu. Head to the iconic Tashichho Dzong, located on the northern edge of Thimphu. It is a majestic fortress, which has been the seat of Deb Raja/ Druk Desi (the head of the civil government of Bhutan).
Head to the National Memorial Chorten and the Buddha Dordenma statue, the two major attractions in Thimphu.
Day 3: Continuing Sightseeing in Thimphu
Have breakfast, and leave for the Folk Heritage Museum and the Royal Textile Academy.
Explore the Motithang Takin Preserve and Simtokha Dzong.
Enjoy exploring local markets and savor some authentic Bhutanese dishes.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha Transfer
Head to Punakha via the Dochula Pass, which takes about 3 hours. The journey from Thimphu to Punakha offers scenic views of the Himalayas and lush forests.
Check into your hotel/resort in Punakha (book a river-facing accommodation).
On your day 4 Bhutan trip, visit the Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzongs (attractions) in Bhutan. Next, go for the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the must-visit places in Punakha.
Day 5: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
Wake up early, have breakfast, and tour Chimi Lhakhang, about 30 minutes from Punakha.
Your tour guide will transfer you to Phobjikha Valley (2.5 hours). This valley in Bhutan is known for its scenic nature and is home to the endangered black-necked cranes.
Check into your hotel in Phojikha Valley and after some relaxation, leave for Gangtey Monastery and explore the valley. Bhutan holiday packages from India cover all-inclusive travel facilities.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley to Paro Transfer
Drive back to Paro, which takes around 5 hours from Phobjikha Valley.
Relax in your accommodation in Paro, and stroll the local markets.
Day 7: Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
A hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is a dream for many adventurers. The hike takes around 5-6 hours. This clifftop monastery is one of the most important sites in Bhutan.
Spend the evening at leisure in Paro, where you may enjoy a spa before departure.
Accommodation Booking Tips: Try to select hotels/resorts in Bhutan in a privileged location so that your transfers remain less time-consuming and comfortable. Book your accommodation for the Bhutan holidays in advance to get better choices and deals.
To explore Bhutan, you have to book through a licensed tour operator (Bhutanese tour operator). Your tour guide will plan your trip with a licensed/authorized travel agency. RS Travels, one of the best tour operators in Jaigaon, plans a wide range of Bhutan tour packages from India.
