Paro is a beautiful town in Bhutan known for its stunning monasteries and scenic landscapes. Bagdogra, located in West Bengal, India, is the nearest major transport hub with an airport and railway station. Many travelers use this route to explore Bhutan’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bagdogra to Paro. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step planning advice for a smooth journey.

Getting from Bagdogra to Paro – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for reaching Bagdogra from different parts of India but not directly to Paro. You can take a train to New Jalpaiguri station near Bagdogra and continue by road to Paro.

• New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest major railway station to Bagdogra, about 16 km away, well connected by trains from Kolkata, Delhi, and other cities.

• Trains from Kolkata to NJP take around 10 to 12 hours, with fares ranging from INR 500 to 1500 depending on class and train type.

• From NJP station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Bagdogra airport or directly towards the Bhutan border at Phuentsholing.

• Train travel is comfortable and economical but requires additional road travel to reach Paro, so plan accordingly for transfers and luggage handling.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option for traveling from Bagdogra to the Bhutan border, but there is no direct bus to Paro. You will need to change transport at the border or in Phuentsholing.

• State transport buses run from Siliguri and Bagdogra to Jaigaon, the Indian town on the Bhutan border, taking about 3 to 4 hours and costing INR 100 to 200.

• From Jaigaon, Bhutanese buses or shared taxis can take you to Phuentsholing and onward to Paro, which is about 160 km and takes 5 to 6 hours by road.

• Buses are frequent during the day but can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays, so book early or arrive at the bus stand in the morning.

• Road conditions are generally good but can be affected by monsoon rains causing delays and landslides, so check weather forecasts before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bagdogra to Paro is a flexible and scenic option if you prefer privacy and control over your schedule. You can rent a car or hire a taxi for the entire route.

• The distance from Bagdogra airport to Paro is approximately 180 km via NH10 and the Bhutan border at Phuentsholing, taking around 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic and border formalities.

• Car rentals are available in Siliguri and Bagdogra, with prices ranging from INR 2500 to 4000 per day for sedans, excluding tolls and fuel.

• Border crossing requires valid permits and passport checks; taxis arranged by Bhutanese tour operators often handle permits for a smoother process.

• Roads inside Bhutan are well maintained but narrow and winding; driving experience in hilly terrain is recommended for self-drive travelers.

• Rest stops with food and refreshments are available at towns like Jaigaon and Phuentsholing; plan breaks to avoid fatigue during the journey.

Flight

Flights are the fastest way to reach Paro from Bagdogra, with direct connections available seasonally. This option suits travelers with limited time or those seeking convenience.

• Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate flights between Bagdogra Airport (IXB) and Paro Airport (PBH), usually 1-hour flights with fares ranging from INR 4000 to 7000 one way.

• Flights are limited and often booked well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like spring and autumn.

• Paro Airport is one of the most challenging airports to land in, so flights can be delayed or canceled due to weather conditions like fog or strong winds.

• Booking flights through official airline websites or authorized agents is recommended to avoid scams and ensure proper documentation for Bhutan entry.

• Upon arrival at Paro Airport, taxis and local buses are available to reach your accommodation or nearby towns.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Bagdogra to Paro to help you manage transfers and permits smoothly.

• Book your train or flight ticket to Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri early, especially during festivals or holidays, to secure your preferred travel dates and class.

• Arrange your Bhutan entry permit in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or the Tourism Council of Bhutan website, as it is mandatory for all foreign visitors.

• From Bagdogra airport or NJP station, hire a prepaid taxi or shared jeep to Jaigaon, the Indian border town, to avoid last-minute price hikes and ensure safe travel.

• Cross the border at Phuentsholing with your permit and passport; customs and immigration checks can take 1 to 2 hours, so keep all documents handy and follow instructions carefully.

• From Phuentsholing, book a taxi or take a Bhutanese bus to Paro; taxis can be arranged through your tour operator or local stands, and buses run daily but may have limited schedules.

• On arrival in Paro, use local taxis or walk to your hotel; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Druk Taxi are available for convenient local travel.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid passport with Bhutan visa or permit; Indian nationals need a permit obtained at the border, so keep identification documents ready for inspection.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey to avoid stomach issues, especially when traveling by road through rural areas.

• Book train and flight tickets through official platforms like IRCTC and airline websites to avoid scams and last-minute cancellations.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted ride apps like Ola or Uber in Bagdogra and Druk Taxi in Bhutan to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Pack light but include essentials like rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes for Paro’s cooler climate, especially in winter mornings and evenings.

• Be prepared for delays at the border due to security checks or weather; carry snacks and water, and inform your accommodation about your expected arrival time.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bagdogra to Paro is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies and pleasant weather, ideal for flights and road travel.

Monsoon season (June to August) can cause roadblocks and flight delays due to heavy rains and landslides. Winter months (December to February) are cold in Paro, with possible fog affecting flights.

• Avoid traveling during major Bhutanese festivals like Tshechu when accommodation and transport are in high demand and prices rise.

• Early morning departures are best for flights to avoid afternoon fog and turbulence common in the Himalayan region.

• Road travel is smoother during dry months; check weather updates to avoid monsoon-related disruptions on NH10 and Bhutan highways.

• Plan extra time for border crossing during Indian and Bhutanese public holidays when queues can be longer than usual.

Arrival at Paro & What to Expect

When you arrive at Paro, you will find a small but well-organized airport with basic facilities. The town is compact, and most hotels are within a short drive or walk from the airport.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, shared cabs, and some app-based services like Druk Taxi. It is advisable to book your taxi through your hotel or a trusted operator to avoid overcharging. Walking is also pleasant in Paro’s calm environment, with many attractions nearby.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bagdogra to Paro offers multiple options depending on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Flights provide the quickest route but require advance booking and flexible plans due to weather. Road travel by car or bus is scenic and economical but takes longer and needs careful planning for border formalities.

By following this guide’s step-by-step plan and practical tips, you can confidently arrange your journey and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and culture of Bhutan. Remember to check permits, book tickets early, and prepare for seasonal conditions to make your trip smooth and memorable.