How Indian Travelers Can Visit Bhutan: Complete Guide (2025)
Overview
Indian citizens can visit Bhutan without a visa, but they need a special permit or route permit depending on their travel plans. Unlike other foreign tourists, Indians do not need to book through a tour operator or pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)unless staying beyond certain areas.
This guide covers all requirements, entry rules, and travel tips for Indian travelers visiting Bhutan in 2025.
Entry Requirements for Indian Travelers
1. Valid Travel Documents
– Indian Passport (valid for at least 6 months) OR
– Voter ID Card (original, no photocopies accepted).
– Children (under 18) can use a birth certificate or school ID.
2. Entry Permits for Indians
– Permit-Free Entry (7 Days):
– If traveling only to Thimphu & Paro, no permit is needed (since 2023).
– Show valid ID at immigration.
– Permit Required (Beyond Thimphu & Paro):
– Obtain a Route Permit from Immigration Office (Phuentsholing /Thimphu).
– Needed for visiting Punakha, Bumthang, Haa Valley, etc.
3. How to Get the Permit?
– At Land Border (Phuentsholing):
– Visit the Immigration Office (open Mon-Fri, 9 AM–5 PM).
– Submit ID proof + 2 passport photos + hotel booking (if asked).
– Permit issued on the spot(free of cost).
– At Paro Airport (For Flyers):
– Show ID and get entry clearance.
Traveling to Bhutan from India
By Air (Fastest Option)
–Flights from : Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati.
–Airlines : Druk Air, Bhutan Airlines.
–Landing Airport : Paro (Bhutan’s only international airport).
By Road (Budget-Friendly)
– Popular Routes:
– Jaigaon – Phuentsholing (West Bengal)– Most common.
– Gelephu (Assam border)– Less crowded.
– Samdrup Jongkhar (Assam border)– Eastern entry.
Documents Needed:
– ID proof (Passport/Voter ID).
– Vehicle permit (if driving).
Important Rules for Indian Tourists
✔No SDF Fee (Unlike Foreigners)– Indians donotpay the $100/day fee.
✔No Mandatory Tour Guide– Can exploreindependently(unlike foreigners).
✔Permit Extensions Possible– Apply in Thimphu if staying longer.
✔No Restricted Areas– Some regions (like military zones) are off-limits.
Travel Tips for Indian Visitors
– Best Time to Visit: March-May (spring) & Sept-Nov (autumn).
– Currency: Indian Rupees (INR) accepted everywhere (except ₹500 & ₹2000 notes).
– Mobile Networks: Airtel & BSNL work; local SIMs available.
Must-Visit Places:
– Paro (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
– Thimphu (Buddha Dordenma Statue)
– Punakha (Punakha Dzong)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
**Q1. Can Indians drive to Bhutan in their own car?
✅ Yes, but need a vehicle permit from the border.
**Q2. Is a hotel booking required for the permit?
❌ Not always, but recommended for longer stays.
**Q3. Can Indians visit Bhutan without a passport?
✅ Yes, Voter ID is accepted.
**Q4. How long can Indians stay in Bhutan?
📅 Up to7 days (permit-free), extendable in Thimphu.
