Siliguri, located in West Bengal, India, serves as the gateway to the northeastern states and neighboring Bhutan. Bhutan, a serene Himalayan kingdom known for its rich culture and natural beauty, attracts tourists seeking tranquility and adventure. Traveling from Siliguri to Bhutan is popular among tourists and business travelers alike, given Siliguri’s strategic location near the India-Bhutan border.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bhutan from Siliguri, including road travel, flights, and border crossing formalities. Whether you plan a weekend trip or a longer stay, you will find detailed advice on transport modes, travel times, costs, and insider tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Siliguri to Bhutan – Main Options

By Road

Road travel is the most common and convenient way to reach Bhutan from Siliguri. The border town of Phuentsholing is the main entry point, connected by National Highway 31 and other regional roads. Many travelers prefer road transport for its flexibility and scenic views.

• Route and distance:

  The drive from Siliguri to Phuentsholing covers approximately 115 km via NH31 and NH717A, taking around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and border formalities.

• Transport options:

  Shared taxis, private cabs, and buses operate regularly. Shared taxis are frequent and cost-effective, charging around INR 300–500 per person. Private cabs offer comfort and flexibility but cost more.

• Border crossing:

  The India-Bhutan border at Jaigaon-Phuentsholing requires valid documents like a passport or voter ID for Indian nationals. Customs and immigration checks can take 30 minutes to 1 hour, so plan accordingly.

• Road conditions and scenery:

  The roads are mostly well-maintained, with some hilly stretches near the border. The drive offers lush greenery and glimpses of the Himalayan foothills. Avoid night travel as some border formalities close by evening.

• Seasonal tips:

  Monsoon months (June to September) can cause landslides and slippery roads, so check weather updates. Winter mornings may have fog, causing delays.

By Flight

Flying is an option for those who want to combine air travel with road transport. While Siliguri has an airport, direct flights to Bhutan are not available. The nearest airport to Bhutan is Bagdogra, near Siliguri, which connects to Paro Airport in Bhutan via limited flights.

• Bagdogra Airport:

  Located about 16 km from Siliguri city center, Bagdogra is the main airport serving the region. It has good connectivity with major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.

• Flights to Paro:

  Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from Bagdogra to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport. These flights are infrequent and seasonal, so booking in advance is essential.

• Travel time and cost:

  The flight takes about 45 minutes. Ticket prices range from INR 5,000 to 10,000 one way, depending on the season and availability.

• From Paro to other Bhutan destinations:

  After landing in Paro, you can hire taxis or use local buses to reach Thimphu or other parts of Bhutan. Road travel from Paro to Thimphu takes about 1.5 hours.

• Booking tips:

  Flights can be booked via airline websites or through travel agents specializing in Bhutan travel. Check visa and permit requirements before booking.

By Train

While there is no direct train route into Bhutan, Siliguri is well connected by rail to the rest of India. Travelers can use trains to reach Siliguri before continuing by road to Bhutan.

• Major railway stations:

  Siliguri Junction, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), and Siliguri Town are the key stations serving the region. NJP is the largest and best connected station.

• Train connectivity:

  NJP connects to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and others. Trains vary from express to superfast, with ticket prices depending on class and distance.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From NJP or Siliguri stations, taxis and buses are available to reach the Bhutan border town of Jaigaon, about 4–6 km away.

• Travel tips:

  Book train tickets in advance via IRCTC, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arrive early to navigate the busy stations and find reliable transport to the border.

By Bus

Buses offer an economical option to reach the Bhutan border from Siliguri. Both government and private operators run services to Jaigaon, catering to daily commuters and tourists.

• Bus routes:

  MSRTC and private buses operate between Siliguri and Jaigaon, with frequent departures throughout the day. The journey takes about 4 hours depending on traffic.

• Ticket costs:

  Bus fares range from INR 100 to 200, making it a budget-friendly choice for solo travelers and backpackers.

• Bus types:

  Options include ordinary, deluxe, and Volvo buses. Deluxe buses offer better comfort but are less frequent.

• Boarding points:

  Buses depart from Siliguri New Bus Stand and Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus. Confirm the bus stops with the operator to avoid confusion.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling during peak hours or festival days to escape crowded buses. Carry water and snacks as stops are limited on this route.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Siliguri to Bhutan, ensuring a hassle-free journey with clear steps and useful tips.

• Book your transport in advance:

  Whether opting for a shared taxi, bus, or flight, secure your tickets early, especially during peak seasons like autumn and spring.

• Prepare travel documents:

  Carry valid photo ID such as passport or voter ID. Indian nationals do not need a visa but must register at the Bhutanese immigration office upon arrival.

• Start early from Siliguri:

  Begin your journey early morning to avoid traffic and complete border formalities during working hours, as the border closes by evening.

• Reach Jaigaon border:

  Upon arrival at Jaigaon, complete Indian exit formalities, then proceed to Phuentsholing for Bhutan entry. Keep some local currency handy for permits and transport.

• Arrange onward travel:

  From Phuentsholing, hire a taxi or use local buses to reach your Bhutan destination. Prepaid taxis are available near the border for convenience.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety and security:

  The Siliguri-Phuentsholing route is generally safe, but keep valuables secure and avoid isolated areas after dark. Use official taxis and buses to prevent scams.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus. Try local roadside eateries in Jaigaon for authentic Bhutanese and Indian cuisine.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official bus stands for bus tickets. For taxis, negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based services like Ola where available.

• Local commute in Bhutan:

  Bhutanese towns have limited public transport; taxis are the best option. Always confirm fare before starting your ride.

• Luggage considerations:

  Keep luggage light as shared taxis have limited space. Pack essentials in a day bag for border formalities and short trips.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid monsoon travel due to landslide risks. Winter mornings can be foggy, so plan extra travel time.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Siliguri to Bhutan is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. These months offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and vibrant festivals.

Monsoon and winter require caution due to weather-related disruptions. Planning your travel during daylight hours ensures smoother border crossing and safer road conditions.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Siliguri, typically early mornings and late afternoons, to reduce delays.

• Steer clear of major Indian and Bhutanese festival weekends when transport and accommodations are crowded.

• Check weather forecasts during monsoon to avoid landslides and road closures.

• Depart early morning to complete border formalities before the afternoon closure.

Arrival at Bhutan & What to Expect

On arrival at Phuentsholing, travelers experience a blend of Bhutanese and Indian cultures. The town is bustling with shops, eateries, and travel agencies catering to tourists. Immigration offices are located near the border for permit processing.

Local transport options include taxis and shared jeeps to Thimphu and other destinations. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to comfortable hotels. It is advisable to pre-book stays in popular towns during peak seasons.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Bhutan from Siliguri is by road via shared taxi or private cab, balancing cost, convenience, and scenic travel. This route offers flexibility and the chance to experience the transition from Indian plains to Himalayan foothills.

With proper planning, valid documents, and awareness of seasonal conditions, travelers can confidently embark on this journey. Bhutan’s unique charm awaits just a few hours from Siliguri, making it an accessible and rewarding destination.