GEtting INTO BHUTAN
Until the early 1960s, Bhutan was largely isolated from the outside world, accessible only by foot via two challenging routes: the Northern route through Tibet, which was blocked by high mountain passes during winter, and the Southern route through the dense jungles of Assam and West Bengal. However, meticulously planned economic development has since transformed Bhutan’s accessibility, with a network of roads and multiple airports now connecting it to the world. Today, the main entry points are through Phuentsholing in the south, linking to West Bengal, and the border towns of Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar, and others, facilitating travel to and from Assam.
TRAVEL BY AIRLINE
There are flights to destinations that include Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bag Dogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore, and Mumbai.
Paro is situated at a height of 2,225 m (7300 ft.) above sea level and is surrounded by mountains as high as 4,876 m (16,000 ft.). At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. There are also domestic airports in Yonphula in eastern Bhutan, Bumthang in central Bhutan, and Gelephu in south-central Bhutan.
Flying into Bhutan’s Paro International Airport is typically an exciting experience as the descent into Paro valley brings you closer to the mountain tops than most other flights in the world. The flight between Paro and Kathmandu is one of the most exciting ones as the aircraft passes over four of the five highest mountains in the world. In fine weather, as you soar higher up, you can enjoy the spectacular view of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Kangchenjunga at their best.
TRAVEL BY LAND
Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar are the only land border areas open to tourists.
The town of Phuentsholing in south-west is located approximately 170 km east of the Indian national airport at Bagdogra. After crossing Phuentsholing, you begin your journey to Thimphu, the capital city with travel time of about six hours for the 170 km stretch.
Gelephu, in south-central Bhutan, is another entry point to Bhutan. It is approximately 250 kilometers from Thimphu and the journey will take you through the sub-tropical areas of Bhutan before entering the alpine zone and then finally into Thimphu. One will have to traverse across three districts and the travel time will be about ten hours.
The district of Samdrup Jongkhar in south-east Bhutan borders the Indian district of Darranga, Assam and is approximately 150 kilometers away from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. The journey from Guwahati is about three hours. Tourists entering Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar will take you to Trashigang, and from there over the lateral route to Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang and then finally into the capital, Thimphu. The distance is about 700 kilometers and will take you a minimum of three days to reach Thimphu.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BHUTAN
March, April & May are among the most popular time to travel as temperatures are pleasant and the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Paro Tsechu, one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan. Temperatures increase in May, bringing humidity, as well as clouds over the mountains. The rhododendrons should also still be in bloom; ideal for photographs and nature lovers.
June to August (and sometimes in September) monsoon is monsoon season in Bhutan. However, fewer visitors and lower prices can make it a perfectly viable time to visit. Although shows can occur at night without spoiling day time explorations, conditions are not ideal for trekking. Sightseeing is still possible; just be prepared with a raincoat. Views are best in the mornings following nighttime downpours.
September, October and November are ideal for hiking, seeing festivals (particularly the popular Thimphu Tsechu), and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes. Black-necked canes migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to the protected Phobjikha Valley each year. They remain in the region from late October to early February. In Gangtey, a special festival is held every November to celebrate the arrival of the birds.
December, January and February are the coldest months in Bhutan, especially in the mountains, but lower prices and clear skies reward those who brave low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the Himalayas. Due to the low temperatures, visitors are fewer.
