Bhutan Tour Package from Guwahati
Traveling to Bhutan from Guwahati is convenient as it is one of the closest Indian cities to Bhutan, located around 320 km from the India-Bhutan border at Phuentsholing. This proximity makes it easy to travel overland by car, taxi, or bus, with a journey of around 7-8 hours by road.
Guwahati has direct flights to Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport. Though flights may not operate daily, a direct flight option (when available) shortens travel time significantly to about 1 hour, making air travel the quickest and most straightforward way to reach Bhutan from Guwahati. Both Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from Guwahati to Paro, so checking the schedule and booking in advance is recommended.
Permits and Visa Processing at Phuentsholing
Indian travelers do not need a visa and can obtain a permit at the Phuentsholing border, where they pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and receive entry documents. This allows for an easy entry without needing prior visa arrangements.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan introduced a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourists in 2022, aimed at promoting responsible tourism and supporting sustainable development projects.
- For International Tourists: The SDF is currently USD 100 per person per night .
- For Regional Tourists (India): Indian citizens pay an SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night.
- SDF 50% discount for age 6 to12 years
Visa Requirements
- For International Tourists (other than India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives):
- Visa Application: International travelers must apply for a visa online through an authorized tour operator or Bhutan’s official tourism website.
- Visa Fee: The visa fee is USD 40.
- Prepayment: The SDF and visa fee must be prepaid as part of the visa application process.
- For Indian Citizens:
- Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Bhutan.
- Entry Permit: Indian travelers can obtain an entry permit on arrival at the Phuentsholing border or at Paro Airport.
- Documents Needed: Indian citizens must carry either a passport (valid for six months) or a voter ID.
Entry & Exit Points
- By Air: Paro International Airport for flights.
- By Road: Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar are the main border crossings by road.
Trekking in Bhutan
Bhutan offers some of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in the Himalayas, combining natural beauty with cultural richness.Treks in Bhutan provide a unique blend of scenic beauty, from lush forests and alpine meadows to pristine glacial rivers, and allow trekkers to visit remote villages and monasteries. Bhutan’s treks are designed to connect travelers with its cultural and spiritual essence, making trekking here an unforgettable experience. The trekking season is typically best in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is clear and the landscapes are lush or vibrant with fall colors. Here are a few recommended treks in Bhutan:
Festivals in Bhutan (Tshechus)
Bhutan’s festivals also known as Tshechu, are lively, spiritual, and colorful celebrations held at monasteries across the country. These festivals commemorate the teachings of Guru Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist master. Attending a tshechu, allows visitors to witness traditional masked dances, music, and rituals performed by monks and laypeople. The Festival attract many visitors and are celebrated with elaborate costumes and dances, believed to offer blessings and protect against misfortune. Here are a few recommended treks in Bhutan:
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FAQ
How to plan a Bhutan trip from Guwahati?
If you are looking of the most convenient way to reach Bhutan from Guwahati, you must take a flight journey; the aerial views of mighty Brahmaputra River around Guwahati and the great Himalayan Range across Bhutan will surely make your journey an enchanting one!
How far is Bhutan from Guwahati by train?
Traveling from Guwahati to Bhutan by train involves a combination of train and road transport, as there is no direct train service to Bhutan. The total distance from Guwahati to Bhutan (specifically to Phuentsholing) is roughly 300 km, combining both the train and road segments. The total travel time can take around 7-9 hours, depending on train schedules and road conditions.
What is a cost of the tour in Bhutan?
The cost of a tour varies based on the season, duration, add-ons and type of accommodation. Our trip packages include all essential services as outlined in the package. For a precise quote, please contact us with your prospective travel dates and requirements.
Are there any special requirements or restrictions i should be aware of?
Bhutanese culture emphasizes respect and modesty. While visiting temples, monasteries and other religious / official institutions, please dress modestly and respectfully. Trousers/ Long Pants are more appropriate. Shoulders must also be covered when inside religious and official buildings. Please bear in mind that shoes and hats/caps must be removed when entering temples and monasteries. Our guide brief on the monastery/monument etiquette well in advance.
How fit do i need to be for the trip?
We cater our cultural trips to all age groups, therefore fitness level is not a requirement however if you are on a hiking or trekking program a moderate fitness level with make the hiking and treks more engaging and fun.
