Bhutan
Paro International Airport (PBH) serves as your destination. It is small, charming, and designed with traditional Bhutanese architecture, creating a welcoming first impression. Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) and Bhutan Airlines are the only carriers permitted to fly into and out of Paro.
There are no direct flights to Paro from outside Asia. Travelers from North America, Europe, Australia, or other continents typically connect through one of the major Asian hubs served by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines. Popular connection cities include Bangkok (BKK), Delhi (DEL), Kolkata (CCU), and Kathmandu (KTM).
Paro International Airport is a compact yet modern facility. It includes immigration and customs counters, a currency exchange desk, a small duty-free shop, and a few cafes for refreshments. Free Wi-Fi is available. The airport offers a pleasant and efficient entry experience.
Your Bhutanese tour operator arranges a private vehicle and driver as part of your tour package. Your guide meets you at the airport, and the drive to Thimphu offers your first views of Bhutanese landscapes. The road is well-maintained and presents scenic vistas of the Paro and Thimphu valleys.
The flight into Paro is renowned for its spectacular mountain views. For the best views of the Himalayas and the dramatic approach, sit on the left side of the aircraft when flying into Paro. On departure, sit on the right side for similar views.
Approx. 50-65 kilometers (31-40 miles).
1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Private vehicle and driver pre-arranged by your tour operator.
Land entry points from India offer an alternative route, specifically for those combining Bhutan with a trip to the Indian subcontinent. Self-driving is not permitted for international tourists.
Self-drive car rental is generally not available for international tourists. This policy aims for visitor safety on winding mountain roads and local tourism industry support. All international tourists must travel with a licensed Bhutanese driver, arranged by their tour operator.
Bhutan’s tourism policy significantly influences rental options for travelers. Independent car or motorcycle rentals are generally not available for international tourists.
Bhutan does not possess a train network within its borders. The nearest train stations are in India.
Bhutan is a landlocked country, nestled deep within the Himalayas. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not applicable for reaching Thimphu or any other part of Bhutan directly.
Your entry to Bhutan is strictly by air via Paro International Airport or by land from India.
The most common and picturesque way to arrive in Bhutan is by flying into Paro International Airport.
Land crossings from India serve as an alternative, notably for those combining trips.
Due to its landlocked geography, direct water-based travel to Bhutan is not possible.
No specific exit fees or taxes are levied at Paro International Airport beyond what is typically included in your international airline ticket. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) covers much of the infrastructure and services, so additional departure charges are not common.
Paro International Airport offers basic facilities for departing travelers, similar to its arrival services. You find cafes and snack bars where you can purchase refreshments. There is a small duty-free shop selling local handicrafts, stamps, and some international items, allowing for last-minute souvenir purchases.
The drive from Thimphu to Paro Airport takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Your tour operator arranges your transfer, making sure you reach the airport with sufficient time.
The road is generally well-maintained, but be aware of winding sections and potential delays during monsoon.
Before heading to the airport, use up or exchange any remaining Bhutanese Ngultrum. While small amounts are fine, exchanging larger sums outside Bhutan might be difficult.
