Visa & entry
- Visa fee
- USD 40, one time, non-refundable
The Sustainable Development Fee
- Adults
- USD 100 / night
- Children 6–12
- USD 50 / night
- 5 and under
- Free
- Rate fixed until
- Aug 2027
Getting here
Your journey to Bhutan can begin by air or by road. The best route depends on where you are travelling from and the places you wish to explore. Arriving by air Paro International Airport is the main arrival point for visitors exploring western Bhutan, including Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. The approach offers the possibility of spectacular Himalayan views, depending on the weather. Bhutan’s two airlines, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, connect the country with selected regional destinations. Common gateways include Bangkok, Kathmandu, Delhi, Kolkata, Dhaka and Singapore. Routes, operating days and availability vary by airline and season, so check current schedules before arranging your international connections. If you are travelling from a country without a direct connection to Bhutan, you will need to transit through a gateway city. Check whether your connection requires a transit visa, entry permission, an airport change or an overnight stay. Arriving by road Visitors can also enter Bhutan from India through designated land border crossings. Phuentsholing is a well-established gateway for journeys into western Bhutan. Other crossings include Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar and Samtse; confirm the appropriate entry point and current immigration arrangements for your nationality before travelling. For the Phuentsholing route, travellers often arrive through Bagdogra Airport or nearby railway stations in India and continue by road to the border. You must meet India’s entry requirements as well as Bhutan’s visa or permit requirements. If you plan to return through India, check that your Indian visa allows re-entry. Continuing your journey From Paro or your land entry point, onward travel is generally by road. Bhutan’s mountain roads are winding, and journeys can take longer than distances suggest. Allow time for rest stops, sightseeing and changing road conditions. Arrange your arrival transfer and onward transport before departure. Share your confirmed flight or border arrival details with your accommodation or tour operator so that pickup arrangements can be coordinated.
| Via | Notes | Flight to Paro |
|---|---|---|
| Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines | https://drukair.com.bt | |
| Bhutan Airlines | https://www.bhutanairlines.bt |
Allow extra time for connections Flights into and out of Bhutan may be affected by weather, and schedules can change. Allow generous time between your Bhutan flight and onward international connections. Flexible tickets and an overnight stop in your transit city are worth considering.
When to come
Bhutan welcomes visitors throughout the year, with each season offering a different way to experience its landscapes, culture and spiritual traditions. Spring and autumn are particularly popular for combining sightseeing, outdoor activities and festivals. Spring: March to May Spring brings flowering valleys, rhododendrons and gradually warmer days. It is a wonderful time for cultural tours, photography, nature walks and many trekking routes, depending on altitude and conditions. Paro Tshechu, usually held in March or April, is a highlight for visitors wishing to experience sacred mask dances and Bhutan’s living Buddhist traditions. Bring layers for cool mornings and evenings, and rain protection for occasional showers. Summer: June to August Summer transforms Bhutan into a landscape of green rice fields, misty forests and flowing rivers. It suits travellers who enjoy lush scenery and a slower journey through towns, monasteries and valleys. Monsoon rain can affect mountain views and outdoor plans, so allow flexibility in your itinerary. Rainfall varies by region, and wet-weather clothing and sturdy footwear are useful. Autumn: September to November Autumn is especially rewarding for mountain scenery, photography, hiking and cultural exploration. As the monsoon retreats, skies generally become clearer, particularly during October and November. September can still bring rain. Thimphu Tshechu, usually held in September or October, is one of the season’s major cultural attractions. Days can be pleasant, while evenings become colder as winter approaches. Winter: December to February Winter offers crisp air, often clear skies and opportunities for cultural journeys through Bhutan’s valleys. It is a good season for monasteries, photography and birdwatching, including opportunities to see black-necked cranes in their winter habitats. Punakha is generally milder than higher valleys such as Paro, Thimphu and Bumthang. Pack warm clothing: nights can be freezing, and snow may affect high passes and trekking routes. Festival journeys For a festival-focused visit, consider Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu in February or March, Paro Tshechu in March or April, or Thimphu Tshechu in September or October. These are religious occasions where communities gather for blessings, sacred performances and celebration. Dress respectfully and follow local guidance when attending. Planning your visit Choose spring for blossoms and cultural celebrations, autumn for mountain views and walking, summer for green landscapes, or winter for clear-weather sightseeing and birdwatching. Conditions vary considerably with altitude, so the best timing depends on your route and interests. Confirm annual festival dates and trekking conditions before finalising your journey, and book early when travelling around major festivals.
- Best (clear, passes open)
- Cold, bright, quiet (cranes in Phobjikha)
- Monsoon (green, wet, no mountain views)