Bhutan Travel from Austria (Europe)
How to Travel to Bhutan from Austria: A Complete Guide
Are you planning a trip from Austria to Bhutan? It promises a unique adventure to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, known for its rich culture, pristine landscapes, and commitment to sustainable tourism. Here’s a detailed guide covering flights, visa requirements, and travel tips.
Visa Requirements for Bhutan Travel for Austrian Citizens
- Visa Required: All Austrian citizens must obtain a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa is only issued after booking a tour package through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
- Process: Your tour operator will apply for your visa after you confirm your booking. You’ll need to provide your passport details and make the full payment for the tour. Upon approval, you’ll receive a visa clearance letter, stamped into your passport upon arrival in Bhutan.
- Cost: The visa costs USD 40 and is typically included in your tour package.
Flights from Austria to Bhutan
There are no direct flights from Austria to Bhutan, so you will need to take connecting flights, usually through major Asian cities like Delhi, Bangkok and Singapore. The most common entry point to Bhutan is Paro International Airport.
Common Connecting Routes:
- Vienna → Delhi → Paro
- Vienna → Bangkok → Paro
- Vienna → Kathmandu → Paro
You can fly from Vienna International Airport (VIE) to one of the cities above and then take a connecting flight to Paro. Both Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines offer flights from these hubs to Paro.
Flight Duration from Austria to Bhutan:
The total travel time from Vienna to Paro, with a layover, is approximately 12-18 hours, depending on the connecting flight times.
Druk Air Flight Details and Fare for Austrian
- Delhi to Paro-KB201 Dep:1230 Arri:1520 and Return Paro to Delhi-KB200 Dep:0940 Arri:1130
- Round trip fare is USD 645 Per Person
- Kathmandu to Paro-KB401 Dep:0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro to Kathmandu-KB400 Dep:0700 Arri: 0800
- Round trip fare USD 550 Per Person
- Bangkok to Paro-KB153 Dep: 0600 Arri: 0815 and return Paro to Bangkok-KB152 Dep:1620 Arri: 2030
- Round trip Fare is USD 965 Per Person
Flights to Bhutan are limited, and it’s advisable to book tickets well in advance. Starting this year 2024 tourists travelling to Bhutan in the months of December, January, February, June, July and August can avail of huge off-season discounts on airfare. The Discount is valid till the end of 2025.
Note: The flight schedule is valid till January 2025 and the schedule and fare are subject to change
Tour Packages and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
All tourists visiting Bhutan, including those from Austria, must book a guided tour. Bhutan follows a strict tourism policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism”, where a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per day is levied on visitors.
Tour Packages Include:
- Accommodation: 3-star hotels or higher.
- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Transport: Private transportation within Bhutan.
- Licensed Guide: A professional guide throughout your trip.
- Entry Fees: Access to cultural sites, monasteries, and national parks.
You can choose from various tour packages, such as cultural tours, trekking adventures, or customized itineraries.
Accommodation in Bhutan
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly hotels or luxurious resorts, Bhutan has a range of accommodation options:
Luxury Resorts:
- Amankora: Located in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and other regions.
- Taj Tashi: A luxury hotel in Thimphu.
- Le Méridien: Found in both Thimphu and Paro.
Mid-range and Budget Hotels:
- Hotel Olathang: Paro.
- Zhingkham Resort: Punakha.
- Hotel Druk: Thimphu.
All tour packages include 3-star accommodations by default, but you can upgrade to higher-end options.
Top Places to Visit in Bhutan from Austria
During your Bhutan tour from Austria, you’ll likely visit some of Bhutan’s iconic destinations:
- Paro: Home to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), one of Bhutan’s most revered sites.
- Thimphu: The capital city, where you’ll find a mix of modernity and tradition, including the impressive Buddha Dordenma Statue.
- Punakha: Known for the stunning Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress.
- Phobjikha Valley: A tranquil valley known for its black-necked cranes and scenic beauty.
- Bumthang: Bhutan’s cultural heartland, full of ancient temples and spiritual heritage.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan from Austria
The ideal times to visit Bhutan are during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons.
- Spring: A great time to witness blooming rhododendrons and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Autumn: Features clear skies and cool temperatures, ideal for trekking and attending Bhutan’s famous festivals.
If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the winter months (December-February) or monsoon season (June-August), although the weather can be colder or wetter during these periods.
Travel Tips for Austrian Citizens
- Currency: The Bhutanese currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee. You can exchange money at banks, hotels, or the airport. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and shops, but it’s advisable to carry cash.
- Packing: Pack for varying climates, as temperatures can fluctuate greatly, especially in the higher altitudes.
- SIM Cards: Tourist SIM cards are available for purchase at Paro Airport, offering local and international call services, as well as mobile data.
Travelling from Austria to Bhutan is a journey to a land of captivating landscapes and timeless traditions. While the process requires booking a tour package and securing flights through Asia, the effort is well worth it. With its sustainable tourism policies, Bhutan ensures that your visit will be both meaningful and memorable, allowing you to explore its unique cultural and natural wonders. Whether you are seeking spiritual retreats, adventure, or simply the tranquillity of the Himalayas, Bhutan has something
6 Days Bhutan Luxury Travel for Austrian Citizens
- Day 1 Arrival in Bhutan at Paro International Airport and transfer to Thimphu | Altitude 2400M
- Day 2 Thimphu City Tour. Altitude 2400M
- Day 3 Helicopter Scenic Tour of Jomolhari Mountain, Punakha Dzong followed by Tiger Nest Temple. Altitude 2400M.
- Day 4 Thimphu to Punakha Tour | Distance 72.8KM | Driving Time 2 Hours 8 Minutes Via Dochula Pass at 3100M.
- Day 5 Punakha to Paro. Distance 114.8KM | Driving Time 3 Hours 9 Minutes | Altitude 2300M
- Day 6 Paro to Airport and See Off. 15 Minutes drive from Hotel Le Meridian | Altitude 2300Mextraordinary to offer.
The above package offers the best of Luxury combined with an authentic Bhutanese experience. Check the detailed itinerary for the 6-day Bhutan Luxury Tour.
Important Links for Bhutan
- Bhutan Travel from Europe
- Flights to Bhutan
- 5 Days Bhutan Tour
- Bhutan Travel from Taiwan
- 6 Days Bhutan Tour
- Bhutan Tour Package from Delhi
- Flights to Bhutan from India
- Bhutan Flights from Bangkok to Paro
FAQs
Do I need a visa to travel to Bhutan?
Yes, all travelers from Austria need a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa must be arranged through an authorized Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
How do I get from the airport to my accommodation?
Most tour packages include airport transfers. If not, taxis are available at the airport, but pre-arranging transport through your tour operator is advisable.
Is tipping customary in Bhutan?
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, especially for guides and drivers if you are satisfied with their service.
What is Bhutanese Cuisine like?
Bhutanese food features rice, vegetables, and chili peppers. The national dish, Ema Datshi, is made with chilies and cheese. There are also options for international cuisine available in many hotels.
Can I bring a drone to Bhutan?
Drones are restricted, and you may need special permits to operate one. Check with your tour operator for guidance.
