Thimphu

Travel guide

By Air: Unlike many capitals, Thimphu does not have its own airport, instead relying on Paro Airport, accessible by road. The nearest airport is Paro, approximately 65 km away. Paro International Airport connects to Kolkata, Delhi, Bagdogra, Kathmandu, and Bangkok, with only two airlines operating flights — Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. The road journey from Paro to Thimphu takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. By Rail: Bhutan has no railway network, so the nearest usable railway stations are in India — Hasimara or New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal — followed by a long road journey via Phuentsholing. By Road: From Phuentsholing (the main entry point from India), Thimphu is reached via the Lateral Road, Bhutan's main highway, through winding mountain roads taking approximately 5–6 hours. From Paro, it's a scenic 1 to 1.5-hour drive along the Wang Chhu river valley. Domestic buses and shared taxis connect Thimphu with Paro, Punakha, and Phuentsholing regularly. Entry Permits: Since Thimphu lies beyond the border town of Phuentsholing, travelers need a Bhutan Entry Permit obtained at the Immigration Office in Phuentsholing (for Indian nationals) or through a registered tour operator along with a visa (for other foreign nationals) before proceeding to Thimphu.