This guide covers everything you need to know about getting to Bhutan — by air and by land. From booking your flight and understanding baggage allowances, to the four land entry ports and helicopter touring options.
Generally, there are two ways to enter and exit Bhutan: by Air and by Land. This guide covers both in full detail.
Entry into Bhutan by Air
The two airlines serving Paro International Airport
Bhutan has one international airport — Paro International Airport — and two airlines operating in and out of Bhutan: Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines), owned by the Government of Bhutan, and Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air Private Limited), a private carrier.
Established on April 5, 1981, under the Royal Proclamation of His Majesty the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Headquartered in Paro, Drukair operates scheduled flights to 9 international destinations across 5 South Asian countries, with an operational hub at Paro International Airport. It also serves 3 domestic destinations within Bhutan.
Visit Official WebsiteFounded by the Tashi Group of Companies, Bhutan Airlines launched domestic operations in December 2011 and its first international flight to Bangkok in October 2013. Today, it operates a fleet of two A319 aircraft (12 Business Class + 114 Economy seats), serving 4 international destinations — Bangkok, Kolkata, Kathmandu, and Delhi.
Visit Official WebsiteBhutan Flight Destinations
Where you can fly to and from Paro
Druk Air — International Destinations (9)
Druk Air — Domestic Destinations (3)
Bhutan Airlines — International Destinations (4)
Flight Schedules
Where to find the latest timetables
| Airline | Where to Find Schedules |
|---|---|
| Druk Air · Royal Bhutan Airlines | Schedules are subject to change. For the most accurate and current flight schedules, visit the official Drukair flight schedule page. |
| Bhutan Airlines | Schedules are subject to change. For the most accurate and current flight schedules, visit the official Bhutan Airlines flight schedule page. |
Flight Fares
Where to check and book tickets
| Airline | Where to Book & Check Fares |
|---|---|
| Druk Air · Royal Bhutan Airlines | Fares are subject to change. For the latest rates to all destinations, visit the Drukair official website. |
| Bhutan Airlines | Fares are subject to change. For the latest rates to all destinations, visit the Bhutan Airlines booking engine. |
Documents & Checklist
What to have ready before you fly
Before you embark on your journey, gather all necessary travel documents to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience. The following applies to both Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Tickets | A valid airline ticket is required for all domestic and international flights. If you have an e-ticket, carry it in your email or as a printout throughout your travels. |
| Passport & Visa | All foreign travelers must obtain a visa clearance letter from the Department of Immigration of Bhutan before their flight. A copy of the clearance letter must be presented during check-in and at the point of entry, where the visa will be stamped in your passport. |
| Arrival Documents | For international flights, you may need to complete Arrival and Customs Declaration Forms. These are provided at check-in, during the flight, or upon arrival. Present completed forms to passport control or customs officials. |
| Other Important Information | Make copies of important documents such as your return ticket, visa, travel insurance policy, and hotel bookings — both electronic and physical. Research health and safety requirements specific to Bhutan and take necessary precautions including vaccinations and travel insurance. |
Baggage Allowances & Guidelines
What you can bring on Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines
| Baggage Details | Druk Air · Royal Bhutan Airlines | Bhutan Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Checked Baggage | Business Class: 40 kg (88 lbs) Economy Class: 30 kg (66 lbs) Infants (paying 10% of adult fare): no free baggage allowance. |
Business Class: 40 kg (88 lbs) Economy Class: 30 kg (66 lbs) Gaya–Paro Sector only: Business Class: 30 kg Economy Class: 20 kg |
| Hand Baggage | Must fit in overhead bin. Max dimensions: 45 × 35 × 20 cm (17 × 13 × 8 in). Weight: 5 kg (Economy), 7 kg (Business). | Dimensions: 55 × 40 × 20 cm. Maximum weight: 7 kg. |
| Excess Baggage Fees | Calculated at 1.5% of the highest normal adult one-way economy fare. Check latest rates → | Charged per their excess baggage policy. Check latest rates → |
| Prohibited Items | Dangerous goods including compressed gases, corrosives, explosives, flammable substances, and radioactive materials are strictly prohibited. | Prohibited in Hand Baggage: Toy guns, razor blades, sharp knives and scissors (blades over 6cm), tools, and darts. Prohibited on Aircraft: Acids, poisons, flammable liquids, explosives, matches or lighters (except one butane lighter on person). |
| Lost & Mishandled Baggage | Label interior and exterior of luggage with your name, address, and contact number. The airline is not liable for loss or damage to fragile or valuable items including money, jewellery, business documents, or medicines. | Report damaged, delayed, or lost baggage immediately to Bhutan Airlines staff in arrivals and file a report. Compensation for lost baggage is calculated at USD 20 per kg. Report baggage damage in writing within 3 working days. |
Helicopter Services
Scenic tours and emergency services by Drukair Helicopter
Drukair Helicopter Services was established as a State-Owned Enterprise on July 9, 2015. Services include search and rescue, air medical evacuations, firefighting, cargo transportation, VIP transport, and tourism. Three signature tour packages are available:
Heli-Scenic Tour — Western Bhutan
Learn MoreHeli-Scenic Tour — Eastern Bhutan
Learn MoreHeli-Biking Tours
Learn MoreEntry into Bhutan by Land
Four border entry ports across southern and eastern Bhutan
Bhutan has four land entry ports at its bordering towns. You can enter using your own Indian-registered vehicle or in a Bhutanese vehicle arranged by a local tour operator.
