How to Reach Bhutan from Chennai by Air: A Comprehensive Guide
Traveling to Bhutan from Chennai, India, is an adventure that requires a little more planning than conventional air travel. This guide will walk you through the process of reaching Bhutan from Chennai via air, including flight options, connecting cities, and necessary travel documents.
Book a Flight to Paro
The primary international airport in Bhutan is Paro International Airport (PBH), but direct flights from Chennai to Paro are not available. Instead, you will need to book a flight with a layover in another city before connecting to Paro.
Connect via a Hub
Several cities in India can serve as connecting hubs for flights to Paro:
Kolkata (CCU): Fly from Chennai to Kolkata, then catch a direct flight from Kolkata to Paro. This route can be served by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. Guwahati (GAU): Alternatively, you could fly from Chennai to Guwahati and then take a connecting flight to Paro. This is another popular option for travelers to Bhutan.Ensure that you have a valid passport and any necessary visas, as Bhutan has specific entry requirements.
Flight Options and Travel Duration
Check for available flights on airline websites or travel booking platforms. The total travel time will vary depending on layover durations, but it typically takes around 8-12 hours, including layovers.
It is advisable to verify the latest flight options and travel advisories before finalizing your bookings to avoid any last-minute issues.
Travel Duration
The total travel time from Chennai to Paro can vary based on layover durations, but generally, the journey takes around 8-12 hours. Make sure to allow for adequate time to clear customs and border controls.
Check for Updates
Since flight schedules can change, it is a good idea to verify the latest flight options and travel advisories before planning your trip.
The Only International Airport in Bhutan
Paro International Airport remains the sole international airport in Bhutan. Located approximately 7 kilometers east of the city of Paro, it serves connecting flights from various Indian cities.
Direct Flights to Bhutan
Besides Paro, Bhutan has direct flights to the Bagdogra International Airport, which is the closest airport to the Bhutan border.
Travel within Bhutan
Considering a 5-day trip to Bhutan, you may need to plan your ground transportation carefully. The duration of 5 days for a comprehensive trip is minimal, so you should allocate time for both travel and exploration.
By Road
If you wish to travel by road:
Train from Chennai: There are trains from Chennai to Kolkata. From Kolkata, you can take a train to NJP (New Jalpaiguri) or Hasimara station. From Hasimara, you can take an Auto or Cab to the Bhutan-India border. From Hasimara to the Bhutan-India Border: The distance from Hasimara to the border is approximately 20 kilometers. Local transport is the best option for this leg of the trip.This route is more challenging and may require more time and planning, especially for those with less time.
By Air
If you prefer air travel, you can fly from Chennai to Bagdogra and then take a local transport to the border. This route is more straightforward but similarly requires careful planning.
Chennai to Bagdogra: Fly from Chennai to Bagdogra International Airport. From Bagdogra to the Border: Once you reach Bagdogra, you can hire a local transport to the border. This is the closest point to Paro from which you can enter Bhutan.It is worth noting that the number of direct flights to Paro is limited, so you might need to plan ahead and book your flights well in advance.
Conclusion
Reaching Bhutan from Chennai requires thoughtful planning and understanding of the available routes and transit options. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience to this enchanting destination.