Bhutan Trip from China
Travel to Bhutan from Shangai, Beijing and mainland China. A Complete Guide
Bhutan Trip from China. Travelling from China to Bhutan offers a chance to explore a mystical kingdom rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Bhutan, known for its “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy, provides a unique and authentic travel experience. Here’s how to plan your Bhutan trip from China, including visa requirements, flights, and top places to visit.
Visa Requirements for Chinese Citizens
- Visa Requirement: Chinese citizens need a visa to enter Bhutan. You must apply for your visa through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
- Process: After booking a tour package, your tour operator will handle the visa application. You’ll need to provide passport information and make full payment for the tour. Upon approval, a visa clearance letter will be issued, and the visa will be stamped on arrival in Bhutan.
- Visa Cost: The visa fee is USD 40, often included in the tour package.
Flights from China to Bhutan
Bhutan’s only international airport is Paro International Airport, served by two airlines: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. There are no direct flights from China to Bhutan, so travellers must connect through one of the major cities with flights to Bhutan. The most popular flights are from Kathmandu to Bhutan from China.
Common Flight Routes from China to Kathmandu and Bhutan:
- Beijing (PEK) → Kathmandu (KTM) → Paro (PBH)
- Shanghai (PVG) → Bangkok (BKK) → Paro (PBH)
- Both Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air operate flights from Kathmandu Paro and Kathmandu
- The flight schedule for 2025 is as follows
- Druk air KB 201 from Kathmandu to Paro Departs at 0700 and Arrives Paro at 1100
- Flight Fare from Kathmandu Paro Kathmandu is USD 550 Per person
From Beijing to Kathmandu airlines like Cathay Pacific, Korean Airlines and Thai Airways operate daily to Kathmandu.
Flights from Bangkok and Kathmandu are the most common connections to Bhutan.
Flight Duration:
- The total travel time from China to Bhutan, including layovers, is around 10-15 hours, depending on the city in which they connect.
Tour Packages and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan requires all tourists to book a tour package through a licensed Bhutanese operator. The daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is USD 100 per person for foreigners and INR 1200 for Indian nationals. This helps maintain Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Tour Package Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 3-star hotels or higher, depending on your package.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Guides: Licensed Bhutanese guides who provide insights into Bhutanese culture and history.
- Transportation: Private vehicle and driver for your entire tour.
- Entry Fees: Access to cultural and historical sites, temples, and national parks.
Top Places to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan has stunning monasteries, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. During your tour, some must-visit places include:
- Paro: Home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched dramatically on a cliffside.
- Thimphu: The capital city, where you can explore the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Tashichho Dzong, and the Folk Heritage Museum.
- Punakha: Known for the beautiful Punakha Dzong, the former seat of Bhutan’s government.
- Phobjikha Valley: A picturesque valley famous for the endangered black-necked cranes.
- Bumthang: Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, with ancient temples and rich cultural history.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons:
- Spring: Perfect for seeing vibrant rhododendron blooms and experiencing pleasant weather.
- Autumn: Clear skies and cool temperatures make it ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
A trip to Bhutan from China offers an unforgettable journey into one of the world’s most unique travel destinations. With the proper visa, flight arrangements, and a well-planned tour package, you can explore Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming hospitality.
Royal Highlander Festival of Laya for Chinese Citizens
- Day 1 Arrival at Paro International Airport and acclimatization | Altitude 2300M.
- Day 2Tiger Nest Temple Hike. Distance 15 KM | Hiking Time 4 Hours |Altitude 3120M above sea level.
- Day 3Paro Airport to Lay by Helicopter.Flying Time 30 Minutes | Altitude 3800M
- Day 4 Attend Highlander Festival. Altitude 3800M.
- Day 5 Laya to Paro Via Flight and drive to Thimphu. Flight Time 30 Minutes | Distance 60KM | Driving Time 1 Hour |Altitude 2400M.
- Day 6 Thimphu to Paro airport and See Off. Distance 60KM |Driving Time 1 Hour | Altitude 2300M.
Bhutan Travel from Different Destinations
- All you need to know about Bhutan
- Flights to Bhutan
- Travel to Bhutan from the USA
- Travel to Bhutan from Delhi
- Travel to Bhutan from Germany
- 6 Days Bhutan Tour
FAQ
How can I get to Bhutan from China?
There are no direct flights from China to Bhutan. Travelers typically need to fly to a nearby country, such as India (New Delhi) or Nepal (Kathmandu), and then connect to a flight with Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.
Is it possible to drive from China to Bhutan?
Land travel from China to Bhutan is generally not allowed for foreign nationals. The most common entry point is through the air.
Can I book a tour package from China?
Yes, you can book a tour package through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator or an international travel agency that specializes in Bhutan travel.
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation is typically provided in comfortable vehicles, such as SUVs or vans, depending on the size of your group.
What are the key attractions to see in Bhutan?
Key attractions include the Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, Punakha Dzong, the Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu, and various trekking routes in the Himalayas.
