Travel to Bhutan From Canada
Travel to Bhutan From Canada
Bhutan Tour from Canada: A Complete Guide
Traveling to Bhutan from Canada offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush valleys, and ancient monasteries perched on cliffs. This serene kingdom, known for its rich culture and sustainable tourism, requires visitors to book through a licensed tour operator. Transit through Bangkok, Delhi, or Kathmandu is necessary with no direct flights. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, ensuring clear skies and vibrant festivals for an unforgettable experience.
Nobtshonapata Lake
Flights from Canada to Bhutan
There is no direct flight from Canada to Bhutan. Flights to Bhutan only run from nine airports in five countries in Asia at this time. For all travelers heading for Bhutan, you can only get direct flights to the kingdom from one of the five countries, which include India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Thailand. You must first fly to a country that has flights to Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan’s only international airport.
Best Route from Canada
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- From Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR)
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- Fly to Bangkok (BKK), Delhi (DEL), or Kathmandu (KTM).
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- Take a connecting flight to Paro (PBH) via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines.
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- From Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR)
Route to Bhutan From Canada
Druk Air Flight Details from April to December 2025
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- Delhi to Paro-KB201 Dep:1230 Arri:1520 and Return Paro to Delhi-KB200 Dep:0940 Arri:1130
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- Round trip fare is USD 645 Per Person
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- Kathmandu to Paro-KB401 Dep:0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro to Kathmandu-KB400 Dep:0700 Arri: 0800
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- Round trip fare USD 465 Per Person
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- Bangkok to Paro-KB153 Dep: 0600 Arri: 0815 and return Paro to Bangkok-KB152 Dep:1620 Arri: 2030
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- Round trip Fare is USD 965 per Person.
Note: The flight schedule and Fare is subject to Change.
Visa Requirements for Canadian Citizens.
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- All travellers (except Indian citizens) must apply for a visa before arrival.
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- You need to book your trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.
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- The visa application is processed by your tour operator after you pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 USD per night per person and one time visa fee of $100 USD per person (as of 2025).
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- Visa processing takes about 5–10 days.
Best Time to Visit
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- Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming flowers, and great hiking conditions.
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- Autumn (September–November): Best for cultural festivals and stunning mountain views.
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- Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists, clear skies, but colder weather.
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- Summer (June–August): Monsoon season with heavy rainfall.
Currency & Payments
Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and shops, but carrying cash is recommended.Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency, but Indian Rupees (INR) are also accepted.
Tour Packages Typically Include:
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- Accommodation: 3-star hotels or higher.
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- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
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- Transport: Private transport for your trip.
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- Licensed Guide: A Professional guide throughout your tour.
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- Entry Fees: Access to cultural sites and national parks.
Zhiwaling Ascent Thimphu
Top Places to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan offers a captivating blend of culture, nature, and spirituality, with must-visit destinations including the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the historic Punakha Dzong, the spiritual heartland of Bumthang Valley and the bustling capital, Thimphu.
Here’s a more detailed look at some of the top places to visit in Bhutan:
Western Bhutan:
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- Paro:
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- Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery): A legendary monastery perched dramatically on a cliffside, accessible via a challenging but rewarding hike.
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- Paro Valley: Known for its picturesque landscapes, rice paddies, and the historic Rinpung Dzong.
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- Drukgyal Dzong: A dzong with a rich history, located in the Paro Valley.
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- Paro:
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- Thimphu:
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- Tashichho Dzong: The seat of government and the spiritual heartland of Thimphu, with traditional architecture and serene gardens.
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- National Memorial Chorten: A prominent Buddhist stupa dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan.
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- Buddha Dordenma: A massive statue of Buddha overlooking Thimphu, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
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- Thimphu:
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- Punakha:
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- Punakha Dzong: A majestic fortress-monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the winter residence of the head of the Bhutanese clergy.
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- Gangtey Valley: A picturesque valley known for its unique black-necked cranes and the Gangtey Monastery.
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- Haa Valley: A beautiful valley with stunning scenery and a serene atmosphere.
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- Punakha:
Tashichodzong Capital Fortress of Bhutan
Central and Eastern Bhutan:
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- Bumthang Valley:
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- The spiritual heartland of Bhutan: Home to several important monasteries and temples, including the Jakar Dzong.
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- Jigme Dorji National Park: A protected area with diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Bhutanese Takin.
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- Bumthang Valley:
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- Mongar:
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- Mongar Dzong: A relatively new dzong known for its unique architecture and location on a hilltop.
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- Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary: A sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and the snow leopard.
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- Mongar:
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- Trongsa:
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- Trongsa Dzong: A historic dzong with a rich history and stunning architecture.
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- Trongsa:
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- Lhuentse:
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- Ancient and remote district: Known for its traditional culture and isolated beauty.
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- Lhuentse:
Bhutan offers a rich blend of cultural experiences and trekking opportunities, from exploring ancient monasteries and vibrant festivals to challenging hikes through stunning landscape and remote villages.
Rhododendrons
Cultural Experiences:
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- Monasteries and Dzongs:Visit iconic monasteries like Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) and explore the ancient dzongs (fort-monasteries) like Punakha Dzong, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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- Festivals:Witness the vibrant Thimphu Tsechu, a major Buddhist festival with masked dances and cultural performances.
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- Local Life:Engage with local communities, participate in traditional activities like archery or butter lamp lighting, and learn about Bhutanese arts and crafts.
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- Food and Drink:Sample Bhutanese cuisine, including the national dish, “Ema Datshi,” and try the local alcoholic beverage, “Ara”.
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- Hot Stone Bath:Experience the traditional Bhutanese ritual of taking a hot stone bath, which involves heating river stones and submerging them in a wooden tub that is filled with fresh water and therapeutic herbs.
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Tshechu Mask Dance Festival
Trekking:
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- Druk Path Trek:A popular four-day trek from Paro to Thimphu, offering stunning views of mountains and forests.
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- Jomolhari Trek:A moderately challenging trek to the base of the sacred Mt. Jomolhari, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas.
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- Snowman Trek:A challenging, multi-day trek through remote and high-altitude regions, suitable for experienced trekkers.
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- Bumthang Cultural Trek:A gentle three-day trek through the “cultural heartland” of Bhutan, with visits to ancient temples and monasteries.
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- Other Treks:Explore other trekking routes like the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Laya Gasa Trek, and the Trans Bhutan Trail.
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Mount Jomolhari from Lake View
Travel to Bhutan from Other Destinations
Similar Post
Traveling from Canada to Bhutan is a once-in-a-lifetime journey into a land where ancient traditions meet breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Experience vibrant cultural festivals, explore serene monasteries, and trek through pristine nature. With proper planning—securing a tour package and visa—you can embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most exclusive destinations.
Black Necked Crane
FAQ
What is the best currency to use in Bhutan?
Bhutan’s unit of currency is the Ngultrum (BTN) and the symbol is Nu. Ngultrum is not available outside of Bhutan. It is recommended that foreign visitors take in US Dollars or Indian Rupee which are easily exchangeable for Ngultrum.
Is there a minimum daily package for visiting Bhutan?
Bhutan requires tourists to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100per person per night. Tourists can also choose a travel package, which includes accommodation, meals, and guided tours, arranged by an authorized tour operator.
How long does it take to get a visa approved?
The visa process is generally quick once all required documents and payments are submitted by the tour operator. It usually takes around 72 hours for approval.
Is there a dress code or cultural etiquette to follow?
Bhutan values its cultural heritage, so modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting temples, dzongs, and monasteries. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and hats inside religious sites.
Are there any photography restrictions?
Photography is generally allowed, but it’s prohibited inside temples, monasteries, and some dzongs. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially monks and locals in traditional attire.
What is the entry fee for Bhutan tourist?
A sustainable development fee of USD 100 per person per night and one one-time Visa fee of USD 40 per person applicable for foreigners and a Sustainable development fee of INR 1200 per Indian National.