Bhutan, a small, landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas, is a popular travel destination for tourists seeking an authentic cultural experience and breathtaking natural scenery. One of the most convenient ways to reach Bhutan is by air, with Paro International Airport being the sole international airport in the country. However, there are no direct flights from Nepal to Bhutan. In this article, we will explore various modes of transportation from Nepal to Bhutan and suggest a tour itinerary to make the most of your trip.
Modes of Transportation from Nepal to Bhutan:
By Flight:
There are no direct flights from Nepal to Bhutan, but there are connecting flights that take you to Bhutan. The most convenient way is to fly to Paro International Airport from Kathmandu via airlines like Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. The flight takes around an hour and provides stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. The airfare is usually expensive, and it is recommended to book in advance to get the best deals.
By Road:
One of the most popular ways to reach Bhutan from Nepal is by road. The distance between Kathmandu and Phuentsholing, the border town in Bhutan, is around 170 km, and the journey takes around 6-7 hours. From Phuentsholing, it takes another 5-6 hours to reach Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The road journey offers picturesque views of the Himalayas, lush green valleys, and scenic landscapes. It is recommended to hire a private taxi or take a shared taxi from Kathmandu to Phuentsholing. You need to have a valid entry permit to enter Bhutan from Phuentsholing.
By Train:
There are no direct trains from Nepal to Bhutan. The nearest railway station to Bhutan is New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, India, which is around 170 km from Phuentsholing. From New Jalpaiguri, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Bhutan.
Suggested Tour Itinerary:
Once you have reached Bhutan, it is time to explore the country's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Here is a suggested tour itinerary to make the most of your Bhutan trip:
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and taken to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the charming town of Paro, visiting the National Museum, and hiking to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery.
Day 2: Paro - Thimphu
Following breakfast, embark on a drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. En route, visit the Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge and the magnificent Tashichho Dzong, a fortress monastery that houses the offices of the king and other government agencies.
Day 3: Thimphu
Spend the day exploring Thimphu's attractions, including the National Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Dordenma statue, and the weekend market. In the evening, visit the Folk Heritage Museum and witness a traditional Bhutanese cultural performance.
Day 4: Thimphu - Punakha
Drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, and visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers. En route, stop at the Dochula Pass, and admire the panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Day 5: Punakha - Gangtey
Visit the picturesque Gangtey Valley, famous for its black-necked cranes, and hike to the Gangtey Monastery. In the evening, experience a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath to soothe your muscles after the hike.
Day 6: Gangtey - Bumthang
Drive to the central Bhutanese district of Bumthang, home to many ancient temples and monasteries. Visit the Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang temples, and explore the Swiss Farm area, known for its cheese production.
Day 7: Bumthang - Paro
Take a scenic flight from Bumthang to Paro and visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan. Spend the rest of the day shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts in Paro's markets.
Day 8: Departure
Bid farewell to Bhutan as you are taken to Paro International Airport for your flight home. Take with you memories of the country's enchanting beauty, unique culture, and warm hospitality.
Note: The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your preferences and the length of your journey. Contact a reputable tour operator in Bhutan to plan your perfect trip.
Lastly, Bhutan is a beautiful and unique destination that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. While the process of getting to Bhutan from Nepal may involve a bit of planning and preparation, the journey is well worth it for those who are eager to experience all that this enchanting country has to offer.
Whether you opt for a guided tour or decide to explore on your own, there is plenty to see and do in Bhutan, from hiking to ancient monasteries and experiencing traditional Bhutanese festivals to soaking in the natural hot springs and savoring the local cuisine. By following the suggested itinerary above, you can make the most of your time in Bhutan and create memories that will last a lifetime.
So, start planning your trip to Bhutan from Nepal today, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world's most magical destinations!
