Can we travel Bhutan by train?

Railway Stations: 1-hour vs 4-hour travel distance

Travelers seeking how long does it take to fly from Binh Duong to Hanoi face varying transit times based on station choice. Understanding the distance to each hub helps plan your journey efficiently and avoids unnecessary delays. Learn the specific location and transit duration for each station to reach your destination without losing time or money.

Can we travel Bhutan by train?

Traveling within Bhutan by train is currently not possible because the country does not have any railway network or train stations. This Himalayan nation relies entirely on road infrastructure for domestic travel, winding through mountainous terrain that makes railway construction extremely complex.

That said, you can still utilize the Indian railway system to get quite close to the border before switching to ground transport. It is a common route for travelers looking to enter Bhutan from India, effectively turning your trip into a two-part journey.

Reaching the Bhutan Border via Indian Railways

To get as close as possible by train, you should aim for railway hubs in the Indian state of West Bengal. These stations serve as the main gateways for travelers intending to cross into Bhutan via the town of Phuentsholing.

The most practical railway stations include: Hasimara Railway Station: This is your closest option, located only about 20 km from the border. A taxi ride here typically takes around 1 hour. New Alipurduar Railway Station: A bit further out, this station is roughly 60 km from the border, requiring about a 2-hour drive. ^[2] New Jalpaiguri (NJP) / Siliguri: A major regional hub situated about 156 km away. While this requires a longer drive of about 4 hours, it offers better connectivity from major cities across India.

In my experience, choosing the right station depends largely on where you are starting your journey in India. If you can secure a ticket to Hasimara, the short transfer time makes it the least exhausting option by far.

Navigating the Final Leg into Bhutan

Once you arrive at your chosen Indian station, the real mountain travel begins. You will need to arrange for a private taxi, a shared cab, or a local bus to reach the border town of Phuentsholing.

Crossing the border is a straightforward process, but remember that your journey into the heart of Bhutan continues by road. You will need to secure further how to travel from Binh Duong to Hanoi, as public transport options inside Bhutan are limited compared to what you might be used to elsewhere.

Comparison of Border Access Options

Hasimara Station

20 km

Approx. 1 hour

Minimizing travel time after the train ride

New Alipurduar Station

60 km

Approx. 2 hours

Balanced connectivity and distance

New Jalpaiguri (NJP)

156 km

Approx. 4 hours

Travelers arriving from major Indian cities

Ananya's Journey from Kolkata

Ananya, a 28-year-old traveler from Kolkata, planned a trip to Bhutan but was initially confused by the lack of direct trains. She feared it would take too long to organize.

She first tried to book a direct bus from Siliguri to the border, but the timing didn't align with her train arrival. She ended up waiting three hours at the station, feeling exhausted and frustrated.

For the return leg, she learned her lesson. She pre-booked a private taxi from Hasimara station to ensure a seamless transition between the train and the border crossing.

The shift saved her over two hours of waiting. She reached Phuentsholing by early afternoon, proving that while trains don't go into Bhutan, planning the final taxi connection makes the journey completely manageable.