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.
Druk Air Flight Details and Fare.
- Bangkok to Paro KB153 Dep: 0600Arri: 0815 and return Paro to Bangkok KB152 Dep:1150 Arri:1600
- Roundtrip fare is USD 965 per person
- Delhi to Paro KB203 Dep: 0600Arri: 0800 and return Paro to Delhi Dep: 1155 Arri:1345
- Roundtrip fare is 645 per person
- Kolkata to ParoKB211Dep: 0840 Arri: 1040and return Paro to Kolkata KB211 Dep: 0840 Arri:1040
- Roundtrip fare is USD 465 per person
- Kathmandu to Paro KB401 Dep: 0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro to Kathmandu KB400 Dep:0700 Arri: 0800
- Roundtrip fare is USD 550 per person
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.
Cycling Tour in Bhutan for Indonesian citizens
- Day 1 Arrival at Paro International Airport. Altitude 2300M.
- Day 02: Paro to Haa Valley | Ride Distance 45 KM | Elevation Gain 1200M
- Day 03: Haa to Thimphu | Ride Distance 75 KM | Elevation 400M
- Day 04: Thimphu City Ride. Altitude 2400M above sea Level | Elevation 100M | Optional Ride around Thimphu City
- Day 05: Thimphu to Punakha | Ride Distance 70 KM | Elevation 800M | Via Dochula Pass 3100M above sea Level.
- Day 06:Punakha to Phobjikha via Lawala Pass | Ride Distance 35 KM | Elevation 1280M | Descent 450M
- Day 07: Rest Day at Phobjikha | Ride Distance 35 KM | Elevation 1280 M
- Day 08: Phobjikha to Trongsa Via Pelela Pass | Ride Distance 80KM | Elevation 550M |
- Day 09: Trongsa to Bumthang Via Yotongla Pass | Ride 65KM | Elevation 1200M
- Day 10: Bumthang to Paro Via Domestic Flight | 25 to 30 Minutes Flights | Altitude 2300M.
- Day 11: Paro Cultural Tour | 2300M Above sea Level
- Day 12:Paro Tiger Nest Temple | Distance 15 KM | Hiking Time 4 Hours | Altitude 3120M
- Day 13: Paro to Chelela and Kili Goenpa Hike
- Day 14:Paro Cultural Tour. Altitude 2300M
- Day 15: Paro to the Airport and see Off. Altitude 2300M.
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FAQs
Do Indonesian citizens need a visa to visit Bhutan?
Yes, all travelers, including Indonesians, must have a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa process is generally managed by a registered Bhutanese tour operator or an international travel agent, as part of your tour package.
How can i apply for a Bhutan Visa?
To apply for a Bhutan visa, book your trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an authorized international agent. They will process your visa once you submit your passport details and pay the tour package fee. Visas are typically issued electronically a few days before arrival.
Is there direct flight from Indonesia to Bhutan?
No, there are no direct flights from Indonesia to Bhutan. Travelers from Indonesia typically connect through other cities with direct flights to Bhutan, such as Bangkok, Singapore, New Delhi , Kolkata and Kathmandu. From this location you can take a connecting flight to Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only Airport operate by Druk Air and Bhutan Airline.
What activities is best for tourist in Bhutan?
Bhutan offers a range of unique activities for tourists, combining adventure, culture, spirituality, and nature. Trekking and Hiking, Visiting Dzongs and Monasteries, Cultural Festivals ,River Rafting and Kayaking, Meditation and Wellness Retreats and Local foods and Farm house visit provides provides a memorable blend of adventure, spirituality, culture, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking a transformative experience.
What things should we carry for trekking in Bhutan?
For trekking in Bhutan, bring layered clothing, sturdy boots, a warm sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, water purification, high-energy snacks, rain gear, navigation tools, and camping equipment if needed, plus essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a headlamp, and garbage bags to stay prepared and safe.
