Entering Bhutan: Your Gateway to the Kingdom of Happiness
Visiting Bhutan is a unique and rewarding experience, and getting here is easier than many travelers imagine. Whether you choose to arrive by air or by land, your journey to Bhutan is the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. At My Bhutan Retreat, we take care of every aspect of your travel, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival from the moment you begin planning your trip.
Arriving by Air
Flying is the most popular and convenient way to enter Bhutan. The country’s primary international gateway is Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most scenic airports. Surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, the approach into Paro offers breathtaking aerial views and is often considered one of the most spectacular flights in the world.
Most international visitors connect through one of these cities before continuing to Bhutan.
You can fly directly to Bhutan from:
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Delhi, India
- Kolkata, India
- Guwahati, India
- Bagdogra, India
- Kathmandu, Nepal
- Singapore (selected services)
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates (selected services)
Flying to Bhutan is an experience unlike any other. As your aircraft approaches the Himalayas, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests before landing at Paro International Airport. Currently, two airlines operate international flights to Bhutan, offering visitors safe, comfortable, and memorable journeys. The two Bhutanese Airlines also provide chartered flight (both internaitonal and local) at reasonable cost.
Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines
Drukair, also known as Royal Bhutan Airlines, is the national flag carrier of Bhutan. Established in 1981, Drukair has been connecting Bhutan to the world for over four decades and is renowned for its exceptional safety standards, reliable service, and warm Bhutanese hospitality.
Drukair operates a modern fleet of Airbus A319, Airbus A320neo, New Pilatus PC-24, ATR aircraft, and Helicopter providing regular flights between Bhutan and several international destinations, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Kathmandu, Singapore, and Dubai (via selected routes).
Flying with Drukair is much more than transportation—it is the beginning of your Bhutanese experience. Guests are welcomed with traditional Bhutanese hospitality, attentive service, and stunning aerial views of the Himalayan mountain range. On clear days, passengers may even catch glimpses of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, before descending into the picturesque Paro Valley.
Drukair is widely recognized for its punctuality, professionalism, and commitment to showcasing Bhutan’s culture from the moment passengers step on board.
Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air)
Bhutan Airlines, formerly known as Tashi Air, is Bhutan’s first private airline. Since launching international operations in 2013, the airline has become an important gateway connecting Bhutan with neighboring countries while offering travelers greater flexibility and additional flight options.
Bhutan Airlines currently operates scheduled flights between Paro and major regional cities, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu, depending on seasonal schedules. The airline operates modern Airbus aircraft designed to provide a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Known for its friendly service, competitive fares, and convenient schedules, Bhutan Airlines offers passengers a pleasant introduction to the Kingdom of Happiness. Like Drukair, every flight into Paro delivers one of the world’s most spectacular landing experiences, with dramatic views of towering Himalayan mountains and lush valleys.
Entering Bhutan by Land
Travelers may also enter Bhutan by road through designated international border crossings with India. Traveling by land offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the changing landscapes as you enter the Himalayan kingdom. The principal land entry points include Phuntsholing Gate under Chhuka District in Sout West Bhutan near Wes Bengal India;
Located on Bhutan’s southwestern border, Phuentsholing is the busiest and most frequently used land entry point. It connects directly with Jaigaon in the Indian state of West Bengal and is ideal for travelers arriving via Bagdogra Airport or by train to New Jalpaiguri.
For travelers entering Bhutan by road, the Phuentsholing Immigration Terminal and Integrated Check Post (ICP) located in Phuentsholing Gate serves as the country’s principal international land gateway. Located in the vibrant border town of Phuentsholing, adjacent to Jaigaon in West Bengal, India, this modern facility provides a seamless and efficient entry into the Kingdom of Bhutan.
As the busiest land entry point in the country, the terminal welcomes thousands of international visitors every year. It has been developed to enhance border management while providing a comfortable, organized, and visitor-friendly arrival experience. The Integrated Check Post brings together immigration, customs, security, and other border services under one roof, allowing travelers to complete entry formalities efficiently before beginning their Bhutan journey.
The terminal reflects Bhutan’s commitment to combining modern infrastructure with traditional values. Its architecture incorporates elements of Bhutanese design, creating a warm and culturally authentic first impression for visitors. Inside, travelers will find spacious waiting areas, clearly marked immigration counters, customs facilities, information services, and modern amenities designed to make the arrival process smooth and convenient.
For many travelers arriving from India, especially those flying into Bagdogra Airport or arriving by train at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, the Phuentsholing Immigration Terminal is the preferred gateway into Bhutan. Once immigration procedures are completed, visitors can continue their journey by road to Bhutan’s most popular destinations, including Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Phobjikha Valley, and Central Bhutan.
The scenic drive from Phuentsholing to the capital city of Thimphu is an unforgettable introduction to Bhutan. As the road climbs through lush forests and winding mountain landscapes, travelers witness a remarkable transition from the subtropical plains to the cool Himalayan highlands. Along the way, picturesque waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, traditional villages, and dense forests offer countless opportunities to appreciate Bhutan’s natural beauty.
At My Bhutan Retreat, we ensure that your arrival through the Phuentsholing Immigration Terminal is effortless and stress-free. Our experienced team assists with travel documentation, immigration guidance, border transfers, and private transportation, allowing you to begin your Bhutan adventure with complete peace of mind.
Whether you are visiting Bhutan for a cultural holiday, wellness retreat, trekking expedition, executive retreat, or business exploration, the Phuentsholing Immigration Terminal provides a welcoming gateway to one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. From the moment you cross the border, you will experience the warmth, hospitality, and tranquility that make Bhutan truly unique.
Your unforgettable Bhutan journey begins at the gateway where modern convenience meets timeless Himalayan hospitality.