Bhutan Tour Packages

Bhutan Tour Packages

Bhutan Visitor Information

• Area: 47,000 sq kilometres         
   
• Location: Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, between India and China         
   
• Population: Approximately 0.7 million         
   
• Capital: Thimphu         
   
• Time Zone: GMT +6 hours         
   
• Airport: Paro International Airport (the only international airport in Bhutan)         
   
• Politics: Constitutional Monarchy         
   
• Religion: Tantric form of Mahayana Buddhism (Drukpa Kagyupa sect)         
   
• Language: Dzongkha is the official language, though English is widely spoken         
   
• Currency: Ngultrum (at par with the Indian Rupee)         
   
• National Animal: Takin (Budorcas Taxicolor)         
   
• National Day: 17th December (Commemorates the enthronement of the 1st King, Sir Ugyen Wangchuck, in 1907)         
   
• National Dress:         
   
  
  • Men: Gho  
  • Women: Kira  

What to Pack for a Trip to Bhutan

• Spring & Summer (Mar–Aug): Light clothing with an extra layer for cooler evenings (jacket or jumper)         
   
• Autumn & Winter (Sep–Feb): Warm coat, hat, gloves, and fleece         
   Note: A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.  

Exclusive Bhutan Tour Packages – Itinerary        
Day 1 – Arrival in Paro

• Take a stroll around the main market         
   
• Overnight stay at a hotel in Paro         
  
   

Day 2 – Thimphu Sightseeing

• Visit the National Library, National Heritage Museum, and Mothinthang Zoo         
   

Day 3 – Punakha Excursion

• Visit DochuLa Pass, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lake, and Punakha Bridge  

Day 4 – Gangtey Exploration

• Visit Wangdue Dzong and the local market         
   
• Evening walk around Gangtey village         
  
   

Day 5 – Trongsa Visit

• Explore Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong         
   
• Evening visit to the Trongsa market         
  
   

Why Visit Bhutan?

Bhutan, the birthplace of the concept of Gross National Happiness, is widely considered one of the happiest places on earth. With breathtaking natural scenery and a rich cultural identity, the country offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Bhutan’s unique blend of nature, heritage, and tradition clearly sets it apart from its larger neighbours.

Though Bhutan spans approximately 38,394 sq kilometres—making it smaller than Switzerland or about half the size of the US state of Indiana—it boasts a dramatic landscape of mountains, fertile valleys, and savannahs.

How to Reach Bhutan from India

By Air

Travelling from India to Bhutan is easiest by air. Bhutan Airlines and Drukair offer direct flights to Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan. These flights are typically short, taking only a few hours.

For the best deals, book cheap flights to Bhutan through Swan Tours. Compare prices and grab the most affordable airfares on international tickets. Be sure to check for seasonal promotions and special offers.

By Train

Hasimara, a small town in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, is just 17 km from the Indo-Bhutan border.

• To reach Hasimara:         
   
  
  • From Kolkata, you can board the Kanchankanya Express, which arrives at Hasimara around 10:30 AM.         
     
  • Travellers from Delhi, Kanpur, or Ranchi can also find suitable train routes.         
     
• Visit the official Indian Railways website to check timings, schedules, and availability.         
   

By Road (Bus or Car)

The Indian border town of Jaigaon connects to Phuentsholing, the entry point into Bhutan.

• Immigration formalities must be completed here at the Immigration Office in Jaigaon.         
   
• Every traveller must obtain a permit to enter Bhutan, which initially covers Thimphu and Paro only.         
   
• If you wish to explore further regions like Bumthang or other remote destinations, a separate travel permit is required.         
   
• Indian vehicles are allowed in Bhutan, but they also need a special vehicle permit.         
  
   

Things to Do in Bhutan

Bhutan offers a serene escape into nature, culture, and tradition. With its untouched landscapes, warm hospitality, and deeply spiritual roots, here are some of the top things to do during your Bhutan tour:        

1. Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery) – Paro

Perched on a cliffside in the Paro Valley, this iconic monastery is one of Bhutan’s most revered religious sites. A two-hour trek brings you to Guru Rinpoche’s sacred cave temple—an unforgettable spiritual and scenic experience.

2. Rafting in the Po Chhu River – Punakha

For water lovers, the Po Chhu River offers thrilling white-water rafting adventures amidst lush greenery.         
 Best time to visit: March to May and October to November.

3. Trekking Adventures

Bhutan is a trekker’s paradise, offering trails that range from moderate to challenging:

• Druk Path Trek         
   
• Jomolhari Trek         
   
• Snowman Trek         
   
• Nabji Korphu Trek         
   
• Merak Sakteng Trek         
   

Enjoy the crisp mountain air, pristine scenery, and a glimpse into Bhutanese village life along the way.

4. Biking in Bhutan

From novices to experts, cycling in Bhutan is a thrilling experience. One of the most popular routes is from Thimphu to Dochula Pass, offering both on-road and off-road options.         
 Best season: October to December and March to April.

5. Bhutanese Festivals

Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s vibrant culture through its annual festivals.

• Tsechu, the most widely celebrated festival, is held in various districts with traditional dance, colourful costumes, local food, and spiritual blessings.  

6. Visit the Rinpung Dzong – Paro

A masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, Rinpung Dzong offers stunning views, serene hiking paths, and is the centrepiece of the famous Paro Tshechu Festival.         
 Best time to visit: May to November.

7. Explore Trongsa Dzong

The largest dzong fortress in Bhutan and the administrative centre of Trongsa.

• Home to 25 temples, grand courtyards, passageways, and corridors, it reflects the finest examples of traditional Bhutanese design and craftsmanship.

Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks in Bhutan

Bhutan is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, protected across numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. These reserves offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of the country. You can include visits to these sanctuaries in any of the customised Bhutan Holiday Packages.

1. Jigme Dorji National Park

• One of the largest protected areas in Bhutan.         
   
• Home to the national tree (Cypress), national flower (Blue Poppy), national bird (Raven), and national animal (Takin). 

2. Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park

• Known for hosting several migratory bird species.         
   
• A haven for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. 

3. Royal Manas National Park

• Referred to as Bhutan’s “Crown Jewel” of conservation.         
   
• Connected with India’s Manas Tiger Reserve, allowing species to roam freely across borders. 

4. Thrumsingla National Park

• Features dense forests and high-altitude biodiversity.         
   
• Important for ecological preservation and endemic species. 

5. Wangchuck Centennial Park

• Bhutan’s largest national park.         
   
• Rich in alpine meadows, glaciers, and forested areas. 

6. Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve

• The only strict nature reserve in Bhutan.         
   
• Protected and mostly inaccessible to the general public, ensuring the area remains untouched by human activity. 

7. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary

• Hosts a rich variety of species:         
  
   
  
  • 42 mammal species         
     
  • 700+ plant species         
     
  • 340+ bird species         
     
  • 18 snake species         
     
  • 4 lizard species         
     
  • 200 butterfly species 

8. Khaling Neoli Wildlife Sanctuary

• Located in the subtropical belt.        
   
• Species found include:         
   
  
  • Pygmy Hog         
     
  • Hispid Hare         
     
  • Elephants and Gaur         
     
  • Other tropical wildlife.         
    
     

9. Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

• Houses 35 species of the 46 known rhododendron species.         
   
• Home to unique wildlife such as:         
  
   
  
  • Red Panda         
     
  • Barking Deer         
     
  • Hoary-bellied Himalayan Squirrel  

10. Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary

• Rich in both flora and fauna:         
   
  
  • Spotted Deer (Chital)         
     
  • Bengal Tigers         
     
  • Ganges Dolphins         
     
  • Dense Sal forests, a slow-growing evergreen tree variety. 

What to Carry for a Tour to Bhutan

Make sure you pack appropriately to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here's a suggested list:

Clothing

• Warm jackets         
   
• Rain jackets         
   
• Winter clothes         
   
• T-shirts or cotton shirts         
   
• Hiking shorts         
   
• Hiking/trekking boots         
   
• Socks for hiking         
   
• Sneakers         
   
• Sun hat 

Accessories

• Sunglasses         
   
• Sunscreen (face-specific)         
   
• Walking sticks (for trekking or longer walks) 

Bhutan Travel Checklist

Ensure you’re well-prepared with the following essentials:

• Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months from your travel date)         
   
• 3 photocopies of any government-issued ID         
   
• Air tickets         
   
• Visa clearance documents         
   
• Debit/Credit cards (Visa or MasterCard) and some local/international currency         
   
• Mobile phone with international roaming or local SIM option

Flights to Bhutan from India

You can reach Bhutan conveniently only if you board a flight to the place. Paro International airport is the only one that receives its visitors via airlines. If you are travelling to Bhutan from India, then Drukair is the major international airline that flies to Paro from Kolkata and Guwahati. Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air are the major flights from India (New Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, Gaya and so on). With the help of an exotic Bhutan vacation package from Swan Tours, you can easily access the benefits pouring for your travel enthusiasm.

Traveller’s Tip 

Swan Tours offers well-designed Bhutan tour packages with excellent sightseeing options. 

Perfect for:         
 

• Honeymooners         
   
• Groups of friends         
   
• Family vacations         
   
• Solo travellers         
  
   

Tour packages cater to all types of travellers, offering both cultural experiences and adventure activities.         
 

Activities in Bhutan include:         
 

• Trekking         
   
• Kayaking         
   
• Rock climbing         
   
• Rafting         
   
• Cycling         
   

For culture and heritage lovers, you can explore:         

 

• Gangtey Valley         
   
• Tiger’s Nest Monastery         
   
• Taktsang Monastery         
   
• Phobjikha Valley         
   
• And many more.         
   

Special themed packages available: 

• Bhutan honeymoon packages         
   
• Bhutan family packages         
  
   

Swan Tours offers customised tour packages tailored to your interests. 

• Flights and packages available from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and more.         
  
   

For queries, you can directly contact Swan Tours for assistance.         
 

Highlights of Places in Bhutan Tour Packages

How Much Will A Bhutan Trip Cost? 

The cost of a Bhutan trip will largely depend on the season, duration, and your travel style. For international tourists, the daily fee is $250 per person. This is all-inclusive, covering basic services like food, accommodation, transport, and a guide. Indian tourists have lower fees but still need to budget for flights, meals, and any additional activities. 

How to plan a Bhutan trip? 

To plan a trip to Bhutan, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right time to visit (October to December is ideal).         
    
2. Select a travel agency that offers Bhutan tour packages and consult them for itinerary suggestions.         
    
3. Book flights (Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate flights from various Indian cities).         
    
4. Apply for a visa if you're not an Indian national.         
    
5. Prepare necessary documents such as your passport or voter ID card (for Indian tourists).         
    
6. Pack accordingly based on the weather, especially for outdoor activities and hikes.         
    
7. Make a list of attractions you want to visit, like Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, and Phobjikha Valley.         
    
8. Enjoy a guided tour to make the most of your trip.         
   
    

5 Star Hotels in Bhutan 

Bhutan- the Dragon Kingdom, or the Forbidden Kingdom, is among the best-kept keys of Asia. Making for a joyous and also rejuvenating vacation, the best hotels in Bhutan use a fascinating blend of unmatched beauty as well as rustic appeal with modern amenities. 
 

Taj Tashi at Thimphu         
Taj Tashi is idyllically placed in the lap of the Thimphu valley. Surrounded by hills, it is one of the best 5-star hotels in Bhutan. The hotel is developed on the lines of the traditional Dzong architecture. The location is suitable to visit the countless monasteries as well as centuries-old street celebrations. 
 

Le Meridien at Thimphu         
Le Meridien, located right in the heart of the capital city-- Thimphu, manages a stupendous sight of the Himalayas. One of the best hotels in Bhutan, it is a stylish blend of society and also modern amenities. 
 

Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront         
Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront is the perfect destination which offers a lifetime opportunity to live and also experience the country's unique culture and also natural elegance with a mix of deluxe as well as comfort. Located 10 minutes from Paro International Airport Terminal, Le Meridien Paro, and Riverfront is located on the side of the Paro River, offering scenic views of the Eastern Himalayas, making it the perfect best stop for anyone visiting Bhutan. The ageless art of recreation can be easily pursued with amenities that consist of an Explore Spa facility as well as an indoor heated pool. 
 

Shopping in Bhutan 

Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing are the major centers of shopping in Bhutan. Tourists can shop Woven Bags, Stoles, Typical Jewellery, Handmade Kira & Gho, Brassware, Yak-Bone Jewelry, Hand-Woven Bamboo Products, Carpet, Masks, Thangkas, Handmade Paper and also carefully Crafted Metal products.

How can you forget to get souvenirs from Bhutan while visiting it? Though the government of Bhutan is conscious regarding its untouched regions to preserve the culture and also tradition, marketing of locally produced things is the essential issue to promote the society as well as heritage all over the world.

5 Best Places for Shopping in Bhutan

• Norzin Lam Road         
   
• Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Center         
   
• The market in Thimphu, Bhutan         
   
• Yarkay Central Mall         
   
• Choki Handicrafts 

Bhutan Travel Story by Ms. Preeya Dev 

Hello, I am Preeya Dev and I am eager to share my experience for my stay in the Taj Tashi Hotel in Bhutan that is another name for a luxurious five star residence, located in Samten Lam, Chubachu that is not only excellent in its architecture and style, but also is embedded with 57 royal rooms and 9 suites that offer top-class facilities pertaining to accommodation, food, and baby-sitting as well. It is located an hour away from Paro International Airport. The place gives a wonderful view of the surrounding that is filled with greenery and cool clime enhancing the mind and soul. This experience has come into life only because of Swan Tours who have offered the opportunity to pick any of the exclusively customized Bhutan Tour Packages at the best rates.

Bhutan Travel Story by Mr. Ravi Mehta 

Hello, I am Ravi Mehta! I am delighted to share how my Bhutan trip has been a huge success because of Swan Tours who have put forward the best Bhutan Tour Packages. From Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and many other exciting places which are filled with exotic spots like the Drukgyel Dzong, Mount Chomolhari, Ta-Dzong, Taktsang Monastery viewpoint (Tiger’s Nest), Phobjikha valley, Gangtey and many others. The natural landscape and the panoramic views of the environs are extremely beautiful offerings to its tourists from across the globe. From cuisines, to accommodation and transfers you get to experience the best under Swan Tours Bhutan Tour Packages.

Why Visit Bhutan with Swan Tours? 

Swan tours provide attractive and interesting Bhutan tour packages to its customers. Here you will get selected Bhutan tour itinerary of Bhutan packages. It offers you an opportunity to choose travel packages that range from standard to luxurious. Simply ensure that you choose the one that is within your budget.

Bhutan Affordable air tickets from Delhi or Kolkata can be customized by Swan Tours, who have tie-ups with various Bhutan Tour Operators and use Bhutan itineraries at most competitive prices, Bhutan travel plans can be modified according to personal tastes and also requirements.

FAQs 
 

Q. What Is The Best Time To Visit Bhutan?         
The ideal time to visit Bhutan is from October to December. 
 

Q. How Many Days Do You Need In Bhutan?         
5 to 6 days is enough to explore Bhutan. 
 

Q. Is Bhutan Safe For Tourists?         
Bhutan is a very safe country for tourists. However, tourists are advised to consult a travel agent specialising in Bhutan, as accessibility can sometimes be limited. It's recommended to book Druk Air flight tickets before applying for a travel visa to increase the chances of visa approval. 
 

Q. Can Tourists Smoke in Bhutan?         
Bhutan is the only country in the world to completely ban the sale and manufacturing of tobacco. Smoking in public places is prohibited. Tourists and the Bhutanese elite can bring in 200 cigarettes, but should consult a guide to find appropriate places to smoke. 
 

Q. Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Bhutan?         
No, tap water is not considered safe to drink. It is advised to drink bottled mineral water. 
 

Q. Do Travelers Need A Visa To Visit Bhutan?         
Yes, visitors from most countries require a visa to visit Bhutan, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and Maldives. 
 

Q. Do Bhutanese Speak English?         
English is widely spoken in Bhutan, as it is the medium of instruction in schools. The national language is Dzongkha, a Tibetan language spoken by the Ngalop people in northern and western Bhutan. Road signs, government documents, and the national newspaper are published in English, Nepali, and Dzongkha. Different ethnic groups in towns speak their own languages. 
 

Q. What Is The Best Public Transport To Commute Around Bhutan?         
Bhutan does not have a large population, and there are no trains for transportation. The best way to explore Bhutan is on foot or by road. Taxis are available in cities like Phuentsholing, Paro, Jakar, and Thimphu. While taxis have meters, they are rarely used and typically operate on a flat rate. 
 

Q. What Are The Accommodations Like In Bhutan?         
Hotels in Bhutan are generally of good quality, ranging from 3 to 4 stars. 5-star hotels can cost upwards of $1,000 per night. Most hotels have facilities like private pools, heating, and hot water. Avoid public buses, as they tend to be crowded and difficult to navigate. 
 

Q. Do Indians Need a Visa for Bhutan?         
Indian nationals do not require a visa to visit Bhutan. Indians need to carry a valid Indian Passport or Voter Identity Card to pass through immigration. 
 

Q. What Are The Famous Sightseeing Spots to Visit in Bhutan?         
Some of the top tourist attractions in Bhutan include:         
 Rinpung Dzong, Punakha Dzong, Chele La Pass, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Dochula Pass, Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Phobjikha Valley, Chomolhari, Norzin Lam Street, Tashichho Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong, Motithang Takin Preserve, National Museum Of Bhutan, Simply Bhutan, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Haa Valley, Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang Temple, Namgay Artisanal Brewery, Zuri Dzong Fort, Drukgyel Dzong Monastery, Samdrup Jongkhar, Lhuentse, Gasa Tshachu, ThrumshingLa National Park. 
 

Q. Which Currency Is Used in Bhutan?         
The accepted currency in Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum and Indian Rupee. International currencies such as Dollars and Euros are also accepted. 
 

Q. What Are the Most Famous Hotels in Bhutan?         
Some of the top hotels in Bhutan include:         
 Taj Tashi (Thimphu), Tashi Namgay (Paro), Thimphu Tower Hotel (Thimphu), Jigme Suites (Thimphu), Gangtey Lodge (Gangtey), Como Uma (Paro and Punakha), Le Meridien (Thimphu and Paro), Amankora (Punakha, Paro, and Gangtey), Zhiwa Ling (Paro and Thimphu). 
 

Q. Which Are the Best Monasteries to Visit in Bhutan for a Spiritual Tour?         
The best monasteries to visit in Bhutan include:         
 Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful monastery, Membar Tsho.  
 

Q. How much is ₹1 in Bhutan in Indian rupees?         
The currency used in Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). For most practical purposes, ₹1 INR is equal to 1 BTN in Bhutan. The Indian Rupee is also widely accepted, particularly in border towns and other major areas. 
 

Q. Is a Bhutan visa free for Indians?         
Indians do not require a visa to visit Bhutan. They can enter Bhutan by presenting a valid Indian Passport or Voter Identity Card at the immigration checkpoints. 
 

Q. Is Bhutan a rich or poor country?         
Bhutan is considered a developing country, with a relatively small economy. It is not classified as a rich or poor nation in the conventional sense, but it has focused heavily on sustainable development and Gross National Happiness (GNH) as key indicators of success, rather than just economic wealth. 
 

Q. Is Bhutan joining India?         
No, Bhutan is a sovereign nation and has no plans to join India. Bhutan maintains a close relationship with India, especially in matters of security and economic cooperation, but it remains an independent kingdom with its own government and policies. 
 

Q. How much will a Bhutan trip cost?         
The cost of a Bhutan trip largely depends on the season, duration, and the travel package. On average, during the high season (March-May, September-November), tourists must pay a minimum daily fee of $250 (approx. ₹18,500) per person, which covers accommodation, meals, transport, and a guide. Additional costs may apply for specific tours or luxury services. 
 

Q. How much does a Bhutan trip cost from India?         
The cost of a Bhutan trip from India can vary depending on your starting location, travel package, and preferences. On average, flights to Bhutan range between ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 for a round trip, depending on the departure city (like Kolkata, New Delhi, or Guwahati). The cost of the trip in Bhutan, as mentioned earlier, is typically around $250/day for a solo traveller, excluding flights. 
 

Q. What is the fee for Indian tourists in Bhutan?         
Indian tourists are required to pay a daily fee to enter Bhutan. This fee is typically lower than the standard fee charged to international tourists. Indians are also required to pay for their visa processing through a travel agent. The daily fee is approximately ₹1,200-1,500 for Indians. 
 

Q. Is 4 days enough for Bhutan?         
Yes, 4 days can be enough to visit the main attractions in Bhutan, especially if you focus on the popular destinations like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. However, if you want to explore more remote regions or indulge in longer treks, you may need more time.  
 

Q. Which month is best for a Bhutan tour?         
The best months to visit Bhutan are from October to December when the weather is clear, dry, and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 
 

Q. How do I go to Bhutan from Kolkata?         
To travel to Bhutan from Kolkata, you can take a direct flight to Paro International Airport, which is the only international airport in Bhutan. Flights are available via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines. Alternatively, you can travel by road to the border town of Phuentsholing and then enter Bhutan. 
 

Q. How much is the tourist fee to Bhutan?         
For international tourists, the minimum daily tourist fee is $250 per day during the high season (March to May, September to November). This fee includes accommodation, meals, transport, and a guide. For Indian tourists, the daily fee is lower but still required for entry. 
 

Q. Which is the best time to visit Bhutan?         
The best time to visit Bhutan is October to December, when the weather is clear and sunny, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 
 

Q. How can I go to Bhutan from Kolkata?         
To reach Bhutan from Kolkata, you can either:

1. Take a direct flight to Paro International Airport (operated by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines).         
    
2. Travel to Phuentsholing by road (a border town in Bhutan), which is about 12 hours by car from Kolkata, and cross into Bhutan via the border.         
   
   
    

Q. How much is the tourist fee in Bhutan?         
The tourist fee for Bhutan is a minimum of $250 per day for international tourists during peak seasons. This fee includes accommodation, meals, and a guide. Indian tourists pay a lower fee but must still budget for their trip accordingly.