Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a major gateway to the northeastern region of India and neighboring Bhutan. Bhutan, known for its pristine landscapes and unique culture, attracts tourists seeking tranquility and adventure. Traveling from Kolkata to Bhutan is popular among tourists and business travelers alike, offering a blend of air and road travel options.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bhutan from Kolkata, including flights, road trips, and train connections. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on local transport to help you plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Kolkata to Bhutan – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bhutan from Kolkata. Paro Airport is the main international airport in Bhutan, but flights from Kolkata usually connect via Bagdogra or Guwahati, followed by road travel.

• Flight routes:

  There are no direct flights from Kolkata to Paro. The common route is to fly from Kolkata to Bagdogra or Guwahati, then take a taxi or bus to Phuentsholing, the Bhutan border town. Flight duration to Bagdogra is about 1.5 hours.

• Airlines and costs:

  Airlines like IndiGo, AirAsia, and SpiceJet operate daily flights from Kolkata to Bagdogra and Guwahati. Ticket prices range from INR 2,000 to 5,000 depending on season and booking time.

• Convenience and frequency:

  Flights are frequent and reliable, especially during the tourist season (October to April). Early morning flights help maximize daylight for onward road travel.

• Connecting road travel:

  From Bagdogra airport, taxis and shared jeeps are available to Phuentsholing, approximately 160 km away, taking 4–5 hours on National Highway 31 and NH317.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid monsoon months (June to September) as flights and road travel can be delayed due to weather. Booking flights well in advance during peak tourist seasons is recommended.

Road

Traveling by road from Kolkata to Bhutan is popular for those who enjoy scenic drives and want to experience the countryside en route. The journey involves crossing into Bhutan at Phuentsholing.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH12 to Siliguri, then NH31 and NH317 to Jaigaon/Phuentsholing border. The total distance is approximately 600 km and takes around 12–14 hours by car or bus.

• Bus services:

  Private and government buses run from Kolkata to Siliguri and onward to Jaigaon. MSRTC and private operators offer sleeper and semi-sleeper buses costing INR 500–1,200. Buses from Siliguri to Jaigaon take about 3 hours.

• Self-drive and taxis:

  Self-driving is possible but challenging due to traffic near Kolkata and hilly terrain near Bhutan. Hiring a taxi or cab from Kolkata to Jaigaon costs INR 6,000–8,000 one way.

• Road conditions and stops:

  NH12 and NH31 are mostly in good condition with multiple rest stops and dhabas. Avoid night travel near the border due to limited facilities and security checks.

• Border crossing:

  Phuentsholing is the main entry point to Bhutan by road. Indian nationals need valid ID and permits, which can be arranged at the border or online.

Train

Train travel from Kolkata to the Bhutan border is an economical and comfortable option, though it requires a combination of train and road transport.

• Key stations:

  The nearest major railway station to Bhutan is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 40 km from Siliguri. Trains from Kolkata to NJP take 10–12 hours.

• Train options and fares:

  Several express trains like the Darjeeling Mail and Padatik Express connect Kolkata to NJP daily. Ticket prices range from INR 300 (sleeper) to INR 1,200 (AC 3-tier).

• Onward travel:

  From NJP, travelers can take a taxi or shared jeep to Jaigaon/Phuentsholing, which takes around 1.5 hours and costs INR 300–500.

• Booking tips:

  Book train tickets via IRCTC well in advance, especially during holidays. Arrive early at Kolkata station to avoid rush and confirm platform details.

• Travel experience:

  Train travel offers scenic views of West Bengal’s plains and foothills. However, last-mile connectivity requires coordination with road transport.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Kolkata to Bhutan, combining convenience and cost-effectiveness.

• Book your flight or train tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites/apps for flights. Early bookings secure better prices and preferred timings.

• Reach Kolkata airport or railway station early:

  Arrive at least 2 hours before flights and 1 hour before trains to manage security and boarding smoothly.

• Travel to Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri:

  If flying, land at Bagdogra and hire a taxi to Phuentsholing. If by train, disembark at NJP and take a shared jeep or taxi to the Bhutan border.

• Cross the border at Phuentsholing:

  Carry valid ID and permits. Indian nationals get permits on arrival; foreigners must arrange in advance. Check customs regulations for luggage.

• Continue onward travel inside Bhutan:

  From Phuentsholing, buses and taxis connect to Thimphu and other destinations. Pre-book transport or use local taxi services for convenience.

• Accommodation and local commute:

  Book hotels in advance, especially in Thimphu. Use local taxis or rental bikes to explore Bhutan’s towns.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry valid ID and permits:

  Indian citizens need voter ID or passport and permits for Bhutan. Foreigners require a visa and must book tours through licensed operators.

• Food and water safety:

  Drink bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants. Bhutanese cuisine is mild but try local dishes like Ema Datshi cautiously if you have spice sensitivity.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for trains and airline apps for flights. For road travel, book taxis through trusted operators or apps like Ola for Kolkata city travel.

• Local commute in Bhutan:

  Use prepaid taxis at Phuentsholing and Thimphu. Public buses are limited, so plan accordingly or hire private cabs.

• Luggage and packing:

  Pack light due to multiple mode changes. Carry warm clothes for Bhutan’s cooler climate, especially in winter.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid monsoon months due to landslides and flight delays. Winter mornings can be foggy affecting visibility on roads and flights.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Bhutan is during the autumn and spring months when weather is clear and pleasant. Monsoon and winter require extra caution due to weather-related disruptions.

Planning your travel time carefully can help avoid traffic and ensure a smooth journey.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Kolkata (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce delays when leaving the city.

• Steer clear of major Indian and Bhutanese festivals like Diwali and Bhutanese New Year when transport is crowded.

• Travel early morning flights or trains to maximize daylight for road travel to Bhutan.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause landslides and flight cancellations; plan accordingly.

Arrival at Bhutan & What to Expect

On arrival at Phuentsholing, travelers experience a bustling border town with customs and permit offices. Indian nationals can get permits on the spot, while foreigners must have prior arrangements.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis and shared jeeps to Thimphu and other Bhutanese destinations. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, mostly concentrated in Thimphu and Paro.

Exploring Bhutan requires some planning as public transport is limited. Many visitors hire taxis or join guided tours to visit monasteries, dzongs, and scenic spots.

Conclusion

Flying to Bagdogra followed by a taxi to Phuentsholing is the most efficient way to reach Bhutan from Kolkata, balancing speed and convenience. For budget travelers, train to New Jalpaiguri and then road travel is a comfortable alternative.

With proper planning and understanding of transport options, travelers can enjoy a seamless journey from Kolkata to Bhutan. This guide equips you with practical advice to embark on your trip confidently and explore the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan.