Travel to Bhutan from Indonesia
Travel to Bhutan from Indonesia. To travel to Bhutan from Indonesia, you need to fly via transit cities like Bangkok or Delhi, as there are no direct flights. Bhutan’s national airlines, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, operate flights to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport. Indonesian citizens must arrange a visa and book a tour package through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, which includes accommodation, meals, and a guide. Independent travel is not allowed, and visitors must follow Bhutan’s tourism guidelines.
Flight Planning
Since there are no direct flights from Indonesia to Bhutan, you’ll need to connect through a major city. Here’s how to plan your route:
- Choose Your Departure City in Indonesia:
- Fly from Jakarta (CGK) or Bali (DPS) to your transit hub.
- Transit Options: Bhutan is best accessed through the following cities:
- Bangkok (Thailand): Most popular transit option.
- Delhi (India) or Kolkata (India).
- Kathmandu (Nepal).
- Flight Duration:
- From Jakarta to Bangkok: Approximately 3.5-4 hours.
- From Bangkok to Paro (Bhutan): About 3 hours via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.
Book Your Flights
- Step-by-Step Flight Booking:
- Book a flight from Indonesia to Bangkok/Delhi/Kathmandu (your chosen transit hub).
- Book a separate flight from the transit hub to Paro International Airport (PBH) in Bhutan. Bhutan’s national carriers, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, operate from these hubs.
Example Itinerary:
- Jakarta to Bangkok: Fly on any major airline (e.g., Garuda Indonesia, Thai Airways).
- Bangkok to Paro: Connect via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.
Visa Application
Unlike many countries, you can’t apply for a Bhutan visa directly. Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose a Licensed Bhutanese Tour Operator:
- All international tourists must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese travel agency.
- The agency will handle your visa application and arrange all aspects of your tour.
- Documents Required for Visa:
- Passport Copy: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
- Photo: A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Visa Fee:
- The visa fee is USD $40, usually included in the overall tour cost.
- Visa Process:
- Your tour operator submits your visa application, and you’ll receive a Visa within 72 hours of application.
- You need to present this letter at check-in when boarding your flight to Bhutan. The actual visa is stamped into your passport upon arrival in Bhutan.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan follows a High-Value, Low-Impact tourism policy to preserve its environment and culture. Every tourist pays a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).
- Cost of SDF:
- USD $100 per night per person.
Book Your Bhutan Tour
Your tour operator will craft an itinerary for you based on your interests. Whether you want to explore the culture, trek in the mountains, or attend festivals, they can tailor the trip.
Key Activities:
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery).
- Visit the Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress.
- Explore Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, with landmarks like the Buddha Dordenma Statue and the Memorial Chorten.
- Attend Festivals: If your trip coincides with a religious festival like Thimphu Tshechu or Punakha Drubchen, you’ll experience traditional dances and rituals.
A few preferred travel itineraries for Indonesian
Timing Your Visit
Bhutan’s weather is highly dependent on the season. Choose your travel dates wisely:
- Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy mild weather and see the famous rhododendrons in bloom.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and vibrant festivals make this the peak season for travelers.
- Other Seasons:
- Winter (December to February): Chilly weather but beautiful, snow-capped mountain views, and fewer tourists.
- Monsoon (June to August): Frequent rain, especially in the southern region.
Prepare for Altitude
Bhutan’s landscape ranges from lush valleys to high mountain peaks. Many areas are at high altitude, especially in places like Paro (2,200 meters) and Thimphu (2,334 meters).
- Tips for Altitude:
- Stay hydrated and take it easy for the first couple of days to acclimatize.
- Be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms: headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
Pack Wisely
Bhutan’s weather varies greatly depending on the time of year and the elevation, so pack accordingly:
- Layered Clothing: Even in the warmer months, it can get cold in the mornings and evenings. Bring warm layers.
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Essential if you plan to visit Taktsang Monastery or do other hikes.
- Rain Gear: Especially if visiting during monsoon season.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen and a hat are necessary for high-altitude exposure to the sun.
Currency and Payment
- Currency: Bhutan’s official currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are also accepted in Bhutan, except for INR 500 and INR 2000 notes.
- ATM Access: ATMs are available in major cities like Thimphu and Paro, but they may not always be reliable, so carry some cash.
- Credit Cards: Accepted at major hotels and shops in larger cities, but not in rural areas. Always carry some cash for smaller transactions.
Language and Communication
- Official Language: The national language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and by your guides.
Health and Safety
- Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Bhutan, but it’s always good to be up to date on routine vaccinations.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers emergencies and medical evacuation, as healthcare in remote parts of Bhutan may be limited.
- Safety: Bhutan is a very safe country with low crime rates, making it an excellent destination for solo travelers or families.
Respect the Culture
Bhutan is rich in traditions and spirituality, so it’s important to respect the local customs:
- Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, wear long sleeves and pants or skirts.
- Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially monks. Some religious sites may restrict photography.
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