Tour packages to Bhutan from India: What you will feel after crossing the border
There’s that moment – between the hustle and bustle of Jaigaon’s markets and the serene immigration office at Phuentsholing – when things change. The noise softens. A serene, calm atmosphere makes your mind fresh. You are nowhere in India.
Bhutan does that to you. But if you’re planning to take a trip to Bhutan from India, there’s some practical stuff too. With Raghav Travels you will experience a smooth and relaxing journey with no worries.
Various Tour Packages Offered by Raghav Travels
Raghav Travels provides various tour packages to Bhutan. You can choose your package as per your budget and interests.
Bhutan Adventure Tour Package
Duration: 4 Nights / 5 Days
Explore Bhutan like never before with our Bhutan Adventure Tour Package. Experience magnificent views. You will explore valleys and remote places. Take in the warmth of local culture. Drive through beautiful landscapes and enjoy the fresh air. Read more
Places Covered:
Phuentsholing, Paro, Punakha, Dochu La Pass, Thimphu
Classic Bhutan Tour
Duration: 4 Nights / 5 Days
This tour is for first-time travellers. This tour will take you to the highlights. See important landmarks. Have a leisurely trip with stunning views and culture. Read more
Places Covered:
You can explore Thimphu, the Buddha Statue, the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage Museum, and Paro
Untouched Bhutan Tour
Duration: 4 Nights / 5 Days
Experience off-beat Bhutan. Get to visit a serene atmosphere. Travel to less-visited destinations. Ideal for nature lovers and real experiences. Read more
Highlights:
Remote and less-visited valleys, villages, nature, peaceful atmosphere
What Becomes Different Beyond the Border
Once in Bhutan, everything will feel more relaxed and structured. Roads will be clean. Traffic will be less. Rules will be strictly observed. Buildings will have an ancient architecture, making towns picturesque.
However, there are a few things which one has to adhere to once one is in Bhutan. One has to have appropriate permits and a valid identification card. One must abide by the local laws and regulations and be sensitive towards their customs. One must wear modesty in monasteries. Avoid littering and smoking in the restricted places. One must be obedient towards the guide or driver.
You Don't Need a Visa - But You Do Need a Permit
Indians do not need a visa. You do need an entry Permit, which is stamped in Phuentsholing or at Paro Airport.
Here’s what to know:
You must have a valid passport or voter ID
The first permit is only for Thimphu and Paro
- For other places, such as Punakha or Bumthang, this needs to be extended
- A good operator of a Bhutan trip from India takes care of the permits even before you leave
The Currency Stays Forever
One less thing to worry about:
- The Ngultrum is 1:1 to the Indian Rupee
- Rupees can be used in most places in Bhutan
- No need to rush to the currency exchange counter
- Just bring INR and change as required to Ngultrum
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
This fee is somewhat different for every person. Bhutan tour packages from India include these fees.
- Adults require ₹1,200 per person.
- Children (6-12 years) require ₹600 per person
- Children under 5: Do not require any fee
This fee supports free education, free health care and conservation in Bhutan
This fee is no secret in authentic Bhutan holiday packages from India
You Can't Self-Drive in Bhutan
If you’ve driven in India, it’s a change of pace:
- Tourists are not allowed to self-drive in Bhutan
- You’re required to drive in local vehicles with licensed drivers
- The majority of trip packages to Bhutan include good-quality vehicles and drivers
- They will know the area, the best places to stop and the cafes the locals eat at
How to Get There: More Options Than You Think
By Air:
- Direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati or Bagdogra to Paro Airport
- Airlines: DrukAir and Bhutan Airlines
- Quickest but expensive
By Road:
- Phuentsholing – West Bengal (most popular)
- Gelephu -Assam
- Samdrup Jongkhar -Assam
Lots of people choose to fly to Bagdogra and drive to Phuentsholing– a beautiful and economical pairing
An itinerary for a Bhutan tour from India will take your arrival point into account.
What's Included in a Package
Typically Included:
- Hotel/resort accommodation
- Meals (breakfast and dinner)
- All domestic transport to Kichu village
- Entry permits and SDF charges
- Licensed local guide
- Attractions as per itinerary
Typically Excluded:
- Airfare to/from India
- Personal and shopping expenses
- Entry fees for visiting museums
Make sure to discuss inclusions before purchasing tour packages to Bhutan from India.
There Is Cultural Change - And It's Charming
Bhutan is the last place where culture is not performed but practised. A few things to keep in mind:
- No photos in some temples and Dzongs – signs will be posted
- Cover up at monasteries and temples
- Keep voices down, respect local practices
- Go slow – you’ll get more from Bhutan
- Gross National Happiness is the real truth in this country (not the slogan)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do Indians need a visa for Bhutan?
Q: What is the SDF charge for Indian travellers?
Q: What is the best time to visit Bhutan from India?
Q: Can I travel to Bhutan by road from India?
Q: Is Bhutan a safe destination for solo travellers and families?
An Evaluation
After you enter Bhutan, you immediately begin to feel the differences. You will see changes in pace, culture and the surroundings. It’s cleaner, more controlled and more sedate. Having said this, you will need to respect that this will all demand something of you when you visit.
Some guidelines must be adhered to. You need to have cultural sensitivities to be understood, and environmental considerations.
Ready to plan your trip? Explore handcrafted Bhutan tour packages from India with Raghav Travels.