How can I cross the Bhutan border from India?

Crossing the Bhutan Border from India

Bhutan, a landlocked country nestled in the Himalayas, offers Indian citizens a unique opportunity to travel without a visa. However, to enter Bhutan, certain requirements and procedures must be met.

Visa Exemption for Indians

Indian citizens are exempt from obtaining a visa to enter Bhutan. However, a valid passport with at least six months of validity or a Voter Identification Card (VID) issued by the Election Commission of India is required.

Entry Permits

Apart from a valid passport or VID, travelers from India also need to obtain an entry permit to cross the border. There are two main ways to acquire an entry permit:

• Border Entry Permit: This permit is issued at designated border crossings between India and Bhutan. The most popular border crossing for Indian travelers is the Phuentsholing-Jaigaon border.
• Paro Airport Entry Permit: If you plan to arrive in Bhutan by air, you can obtain an entry permit upon arrival at Paro International Airport. The permit is issued on arrival and requires a passport and proof of onward travel (e.g., a flight ticket out of Bhutan).

Border Crossings

There are several designated border crossings between India and Bhutan. The most convenient ones for Indian travelers are:

• Phuentsholing-Jaigaon Border: This is the most popular border crossing. It is located on the India-Bhutan border between the Indian town of Jaigaon and the Bhutanese town of Phuentsholing.
• Gelephu-Sarpang Border: This border crossing is located between the Indian town of Gelephu and the Bhutanese town of Sarpang.
• Samdrup Jongkhar: This border crossing is located between the Indian town of Samdrup Jongkhar and the Bhutanese town of Samdrup Jongkhar.

Documents Required

When crossing the Bhutan border, you will need to present the following documents:

• Valid passport or Voter Identification Card
• Entry permit (issued at the border or at Paro Airport)
• Proof of onward travel (if arriving by air)

Important Notes

• The entry permit is valid for 15 days from the date of issuance.
• You can extend your stay beyond 15 days by applying for an extension at the Department of Immigration in Thimphu.
• Indian vehicles are not permitted to enter Bhutan without a special permit.
• It is advisable to exchange Indian currency into Bhutanese currency before entering Bhutan.