Flights to Bhutan

Flights to Bhutan

Flights to Bhutan are a little special because the airports are in the mountains. Only two airlines currently fly there:

• Druk Air—Bhutan’s government-owned national carrier
  
• Bhutan Airlines—A private airline
  

Both airlines operate seasonal schedules, meaning flights can change depending on the time of year. Several flights per week are available from Kathmandu (Nepal), New Delhi (India), Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, and now also Dubai (DXB). Some flights go directly, while others may stop at cities like Kolkata, Dhaka, or Bagdogra before reaching Bhutan.

Because of the mountain location, flights can be delayed or canceled due to fog, rain, or strong winds. It’s a good idea to allow at least one full day between connecting flights so you don’t miss your next flight.

Airlines Operating Flights to Bhutan

Both Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines are safe and employ pilots with experience in mountain flying. Flying to Bhutan is thrilling because you can see the mountains from above, and the approach to Paro Airport is considered one of the most scenic in the world.

Major Airports with Druk Air Flights

You can reach Bhutan via Druk Air from these major airports:

• Kathmandu, Nepal – Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
  
• Bangkok, Thailand – Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
  
• Singapore – Changi Airport (SIN)
  
• New Delhi, India – Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
  
• Bagdogra, India– Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
  
• Kolkata, India – Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)
  
• Dhaka, Bangladesh – Shahjalal International Airport (DAC)
  
• Dubai, UAE – Dubai International Airport (DXB)
  

Flight Booking Procedure

Booking a flight to Bhutan is simple if you follow these steps:

1. Plan Early: Seats fill up quickly, especially during festivals like Paro Tshechu or Thimphu Tshechu.
   
2. Passport Accuracy: Ensure your ticket matches your passport exactly.
   
3. Visa Clearance: You can buy your ticket first and then apply for a visa online through the Bhutan Department of Immigration. You must have the approved e-visa clearance document at check-in.
   
4. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): This is a mandatory nightly fee of USD 100 per person, which is applicable until August 2027, and it must be paid during the online visa application.
   
5. Choose the Left Side: Sit on the left side of the plane when flying from Kathmandu or Delhi for the best views of Mt. Everest and the Himalayas.
   

Flights to Bhutan by Route

From Kathmandu (KTM):
Kathmandu is the busiest airport for flights to Bhutan, with frequent or daily flights to Paro.

From India:
Flights to bhutan are available from:

• Delhi (DEL)
  
• Kolkata (CCU)
  

Seasonal or limited flights may also operate from:

• Bagdogra (IXB)
  
• Mumbai (BOM, usually with a connection)
  
• Guwahati (GAU)
  
• Gaya (GAY, seasonal)
  

From Bangkok (BKK) & Singapore (SIN):
Both cities are major hubs for direct and connecting flights to Bhutan.

From Dubai (DXB):
Druk Air now operates flights from Dubai, providing a new international route to Bhutan.

Important Travel Tip: 24-Hour Buffer

Weather in the mountains can change quickly. Flights are often delayed or canceled due to fog, rain, or strong winds. To avoid missing your next flight, it’s recommended to allow at least one full extra day between connecting flights.

Why Flying to Bhutan is Special

Flying into Bhutan is unique because of the amazing mountain scenery. As the plane approaches Paro, you can see high peaks, deep valleys, and colorful monasteries. Pilots must be careful because the airport is surrounded by mountains, making it one of the most beautiful and thrilling airport approaches in the world.

Summary

• Only two airlines, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, are permitted to operate international flights to Bhutan’s one international airport in Paro (PBH)
• Flights come from cities like Kathmandu, New Delhi, Bangkok, Singapore, and Dubai. Some flights stop at other cities.
• Flights are weather-dependent, so delays can happen.
• Travelers should allow a 24-hour buffer between flights.
• Druk Air connects to many major airports in Asia.
• Booking a flight is simple, but you must have an approved visa and pay the SDF.
• Flying to Bhutan is safe, scenic, and exciting, making it an adventure even before you arrive in the kingdom!