Bhutan Travel from Europe
Travelling to Bhutan from Europe is a unique experience requiring some planning, as there are no direct flights from Europe to Bhutan. If you plan to travel from Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy or any other European country, the below information will help you plan your hassle-free journey.
Here’s how to get to Bhutan from a European Country.
Book a Flight to a Connecting Hub. The best and easiest cities where Bhutan has daily flights are Singapore, Bangkok, Kathmandu, India (Delhi and Kolkata). First, fly to one city that offers direct flights to Bhutan. Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are the only airlines that fly into Bhutan’s Paro International Airport.
Most Airlines operate flight from Europe to Asian Countries which have connecting flight to Bhutan:
- Qatar Airways (via Doha)
- Emirates (via Dubai)
- Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul)
- Lufthansa and Air India (via New Delhi)
- Thai Airways (via Bangkok)
- Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)
- Nepal Airlines and Turkish Airlines (via Kathmandu)
The most common connecting hubs for Bhutan flights are:
- Delhi (India)-Daily Flights (KB201 DEL-PBH Dep1230 Ari 1520 & KB200 PBH-DEL Dep 0940 Ari 1130)
- Kathmandu (Nepal)-Daily Flights (KB401 KTM-PBH Dep 0900 Ari 1020 & KB400 PBH-KTM Dep 0700 Ari 0800 )
- Bangkok (Thailand)-Daily Flights (KB123 BKK-PBH Dep0730 Ari1140 & KB130 PBH-BKK Dep1620 Ari 2200)
- Singapore-Thrice in a week (KB541 Singapore-PBH Dep1230 Ari 1645 & PBH-Singapore KB540 Dep0750 Ari1555)
Note* Flight timing may change due to weather and also because of some unavoidable circumstances. This schedule is valid till March 2025.
Road Trip to Bhutan from Europe
If you plan to enter Bhutan via road from a European nation India is the only place where you can make the plan. Here is some information on Gateway to Bhutan.
Key Steps to Travel to Bhutan from Europe
- Choose a Tour Operator: Traveling to Bhutan requires booking through an authorized tour operator. Select a package that aligns with your interests, as independent travel is not allowed.
- Obtain a Bhutan Visa: A Bhutan visa can only be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners. The visa must be processed in advance, and it requires a confirmed tour package with an authorized agency. Upon arrival at Paro Airport, your visa will be stamped.
- Plan a Guided Tour: It’s always better to have a sketch tour plan. This will help you visit places. Independent travel is difficult in Bhutan and also expensive, so you will need to book a guided tour, which includes your accommodation, transport, a licensed guide, meals, and entry fees. The daily minimum package rate set by the government applies to all tourists. Please be aware that daily Sustainable Development Fees of USD 100 per person per night are applicable beside your expenditure.
- Fly to Paro International Airport: The only international airport in Bhutan is in Paro. The flight into Paro offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is an experience in itself.
- Once you arrive, we will take care of everything, from your transport to your accommodation, meals, and sightseeing. Read more on how to plan the Bhutan Tour.
Top Things to Do and Visit in Bhutan
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Hike to this iconic cliffside monastery in Paro.
- Punakha Dzong: Explore Bhutan’s stunning riverside fortress.
- Phobjikha Valley: Enjoy nature walks and spot black-necked cranes.
- Thimphu: Visit the Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong.
- Attend a Tsechu Festival: Experience traditional masked dances and rituals.
- Paro Dzong: Tour this historic fortress and its scenic surroundings.
- Punakha Suspension Bridge: Walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge.
- Dochula Pass: Admire panoramic views of the Himalayas and 108 stupas.
- Bumthang Valley: Explore Bhutan’s spiritual heartland with ancient temples.
- Haa Valley: Discover a peaceful, untouched region of Bhutan.
Flight Routes from Europe to Bhutan
- Via Bangkok (Thailand): London (Heathrow) to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) Numerous airlines, including Thai Airways and British Airways.
- Bangkok to Paro (Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines): Limited flights, typically a few times a week.
- Via Delhi (India): London (Heathrow) to Delhi (Indira Gandhi) Multiple airlines, including British Airways, Air India, and Virgin Atlantic.
- Delhi to Paro (Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines) Regular flights, with several options each week.
- Via Kathmandu (Nepal): London (Heathrow) to Kathmandu (Tribhuvan) Carriers like Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Etihad offer connecting flights.
- Kathmandu to Paro (Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines): Flights available several times a week.
- Via Singapore: London (Heathrow) to Singapore (Changi): Singapore Airlines and other carriers offer direct flights.
- Singapore to Paro (Druk Air): Limited flights available, typically on select days.
Recommended Tour from other country
Punakha Festival Tour for European citizens
- Day 01: Arrive at Paro International Airport and drive to Thimphu. Distance 60KM | Driving Time 1 Hour | Altitude 2400M.
- Day 02: Drive from Thimphu to Punakha to witness Punakha Festival. Distance 80 Km | Time 3 Hours via Dochula Pass | Altitude 1200M.
- Day 03: Punakha to Paro City Tour. Distance 150 KM | Time 4 Hours via Thimphu | Altitude 2300M
- Day 04: Paro Tiger Nest Hike. Distance 15 KM | Hiking Time 4 Hours | Temple is 900M above Paro valley.
- Day 05: Drive to Paro Airport and See off. Altitude 2300M.
FAQS
Do European citizens need a visa to visit Bhutan?
Yes, all European citizens require a visa to enter Bhutan. This visa must be arranged prior to arrival through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
How can I book flight from Europe to Bhutan?
Since there is no direct flight, European travelers can typically fly into major hubs like New Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, or Bangkok, and then connect to Paro on Bhutan’s national airline, Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.
What is the time difference between Bhutan and Europe?
Bhutan’s time zone is GMT+6. This is typically 5 hours ahead of Central European Time (CET), though this may vary with European daylight savings.
Can I bring electronic devices, and is there internet access?
Yes, you can bring electronic devices, but remember that Bhutan uses 230V power with type C, D, and G plugs. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, although internet connectivity may be limited in remote areas.
How is the weather in Bhutan?
Bhutan has a varied climate depending on the region and season. Winters (December-February) can be cold with snowfall in higher altitudes, while summers (June-August) bring monsoon rains. Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant weather, ideal for travel.
