Bhutan is the easiest foreign country for an Indian traveller to visit — no visa, no foreign currency needed, and a border a few hours from Siliguri. It still has its own rules, and they are worth getting right before you set out.
Documents
- Adults: a valid Indian passport or a Voter ID card (EPIC). Aadhaar is not accepted.
- Children: a passport, or a birth certificate.
- Passport-size photographs, and copies of everything.
Entry and route permits
Indian nationals receive an entry permit at Phuentsholing, if travelling by road, or at Paro airport. It covers Thimphu and Paro. Travel beyond them — to Punakha, Phobjikha or Bumthang — needs a route permit, issued in Thimphu on a working day. We plan the itinerary so the route permit is collected on the way.
The Sustainable Development Fee
Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee per person per night, at a lower rate for Indian nationals than for other visitors. The rate is set by the Royal Government of Bhutan and has changed in recent years, so we show the current figure separately in your quote rather than print it here.
By road or by air?
By road: NJP or Bagdogra to Phuentsholing in four to five hours, then Thimphu the next day. It is the most popular route for our guests and the most economical. By air: flights to Paro from several Indian cities save two days on the road and land you in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Himalaya.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly in dzongs and temples: long sleeves, long trousers or skirts.
- Walk clockwise around chortens and prayer wheels.
- Ask before photographing people, and inside temples do not photograph at all.
- Smoking in public places is restricted; carry any tobacco only within the allowed limits.
