Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to fly to Bhutan, ensuring your journey is as smooth as possible.
1. Understanding Bhutan’s Air Connectivity
Bhutan has only one international airport, Paro International Airport (PBH), located in the Paro Valley, approximately 50 kilometers from the capital, Thimphu. Due to its unique topography and the surrounding high mountains, flying into Paro is often described as one of the most challenging and thrilling airport approaches in the world. However, the stunning views of the Himalayas as you descend make it an unforgettable experience.
2. Airlines Operating to Bhutan
There are only two airlines that operate flights to Bhutan: Drukair, the national airline, and Bhutan Airlines, the country’s first private airline. Both airlines offer regular flights to Bhutan from select cities in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and now, the Middle East.
Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines):
Drukair operates flights from several international destinations, including: the flight time is approximate and will depend on weather it is a direct flight or via flight. If it is via flight, it is usually a 30-45 minutes stopover and you don’t have to step out of the aircraft.
- Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) – 3 hours
- Delhi, India (DEL) – 2 hours 30 minutes
- Kolkata, India (CCU) – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Bagdogra, India (IXB) – 1 hour
- Gaya, India (GAY) – 1 hour 20 minutes
- Dhaka, Bangladesh (DAC) – 1 hour 30 minutes
- Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) – 1 hour
- Dubai, UAE (DXB) – 4 hours 30 minutes
Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air):
Bhutan Airlines now offers flights from: the flight time is approximate and will depend on weather it is a direct flight or via flight. If it is via flight, it is usually a 30-45 minutes stopover and you don’t have to step out of the aircraft.
- Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) – 3 hours
- Delhi, India (DEL) – 2 hours 30 minutes
- Kolkata, India (CCU) – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) – 1 hour
- Bangalore, India (BLR) – 3 hours
- Mumbai, India (BOM) – 3 hours 15 minutes
The new routes from Bangalore and Mumbai provide convenient options for travelers from southern and western India to reach Bhutan directly. The flight from Mumbai takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, making it a quick journey to Paro.
3. Baggage Allowance:
Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines):
- Economy Class: Passengers are generally allowed to carry 30 kg of checked baggage.
- Business Class: Passengers are allowed 40 kg of checked baggage.
- Hand Luggage: Passengers can carry one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7 kg in Economy Class and 10 kg in Business Class. The maximum dimensions are usually 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm.
Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air):
- Economy Class: The checked baggage allowance is 30 kg.
- Business Class: The checked baggage allowance is 40 kg.
- Hand Luggage: Similar to Drukair, Economy Class passengers are allowed one piece of hand luggage up to 7 kg, and Business Class passengers are allowed up to 10 kg.
Additional Notes:
- Excess Baggage: Any baggage exceeding the free allowance will be subject to excess baggage charges, which vary depending on the route.
- Special Items: Some items like sports equipment may have different allowances or require special arrangements.
It’s always a good idea to check the specific baggage policies on the airline’s official website before traveling, as these allowances can vary based on your ticket type and route.
4. Booking Your Flight
Booking a flight to Bhutan is straightforward. You can book directly through the airlines’ websites or through authorized tour operators such as us, Breathe Bhutan Adventures and Holidays. Due to the limited number of flights and the high demand during peak tourist seasons (March to May and September to November), it’s advisable to book your tickets well in advance.
5. Visa Requirements
All visitors to Bhutan, need a visa to enter the country. Visas can processed online or through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The tour operator will handle the visa application process for you. Once your visa is approved, you will receive a visa clearance letter, which you need to present at check-in and upon arrival in Bhutan.
6. Flight Experience
Flying into Bhutan is an adventure in itself. As your plane approaches Paro, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and the sacred Jomolhari and Jichu Drake mountains. The descent into Paro Valley is steep, and the plane weaves between mountains, providing a thrilling yet safe experience thanks to the expertise of specially trained pilots. To get a view of the Himalayas, you will need to be seated on the left side of aircraft; when flying into Bhutan, especially when flying from Nepal, India and Dubai.
7. Arriving in Bhutan
Once you arrive at Paro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by the stunning traditional Bhutanese architecture of the airport building. After clearing immigration and customs, your tour guide will be waiting to welcome you and start your Bhutan adventure.
8. Getting to Other Parts of Bhutan
Paro is the gateway to the rest of Bhutan. From Paro, you can travel by road to Thimphu, the capital city, which is about an hour drive away. Domestic flights are also available to Bumthang, Trashigang and Gelephu, operated by Drukair, if you’re planning to explore more remote regions of Bhutan.