Which cities fly direct to Bhutan?

Touching Down in the Land of the Thunder Dragon: Direct Flights to Bhutan

Bhutan, the mystical Kingdom nestled in the Himalayas, has captivated travelers for years with its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and commitment to Gross National Happiness. Getting to Bhutan is an adventure in itself, with its notoriously challenging airport, Paro International Airport (PBH), serving as the primary gateway. Thankfully, you don’t always have to endure connecting flights.

Paro International Airport, perched at a dizzying altitude and surrounded by towering peaks, exclusively welcomes international arrivals via Bhutan’s two national airlines: Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. This means your journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon will be with one of these carriers, ensuring a safe and breathtaking approach.

So, which cities offer the convenience of a direct flight to Paro? The good news is, several key Asian hubs provide non-stop access to Bhutan, making planning your trip significantly easier. While flight schedules can fluctuate and are subject to change, here are some of the cities that typically offer direct flights to Paro International Airport:

• Bangkok, Thailand (BKK): Both Drukair and Bhutan Airlines frequently operate flights to and from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, making it a popular and accessible connection point for travelers coming from further afield.

• Delhi, India (DEL): Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi offers a convenient direct connection for those travelling from India or connecting through Delhi.

• Kolkata, India (CCU): Another key Indian city, Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, provides a direct route to Paro, often with multiple flights per week.

• Singapore (SIN): Changi Airport in Singapore, a major international hub, sometimes offers direct flights to Paro. Be sure to check the schedules of both Drukair and Bhutan Airlines as this route can be seasonal.

• Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM): Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, while closer geographically, is still a significant air route offering direct flights to Paro.

• Gaya, India (GAY): This Indian city, located in Bihar, occasionally hosts direct flights to Paro, particularly during peak season or for religious pilgrimages.

Important Considerations When Planning Your Trip:

• Flight Schedules: It is crucial to remember that flight schedules are not always consistent and can change depending on the season, airline operations, and other factors. Always check the official websites of Drukair (www.drukair.com.bt) and Bhutan Airlines (www.bhutanairlines.bt) for the most up-to-date information.
• Booking in Advance: Given the limited number of flights and the popularity of Bhutan as a destination, it’s highly recommended to book your flights well in advance, especially if you’re travelling during peak season.
• Visa Requirements: Remember that all visitors to Bhutan (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa, which must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Your tour operator will also handle your flight bookings in many cases.
• Altitude Awareness: Paro is located at a high altitude. Consult your doctor before travelling and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.

By understanding the direct flight options available and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and memorable journey to the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan and experience the magic that awaits you in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.