Getting around Bhutan
Asia
From Europe ✈️
Direct flight from Paris
No (1-2 stopovers)
Duration
No direct flight from Paris: stopover in Delhi, Bangkok or Kathmandu (allow 14-20h in total)
Indicative round-trip price
700-1300 EUR round trip depending on the connection
Book
2-4 months ahead, at the same time as the package/visa
Recommended airlines
Local transport
Bus
Public buses between Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Phuentsholing, infrequent (a few departures a day) and rundown. Rarely used by tourists.
Train
None. Bhutan has no railway network.
Taxi
Taxis a Thimphou, Paro et Phuentsholing, sans compteur : negocie le prix avant de monter.
Essential apps
Common routes and indicative prices
| From | To | Mode | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paro Airport | Thimphou | 4x4 with a driver | 1h-1h30 | inclus dans le forfait |
| Thimphou | Punakha (Dochula Pass) | 4x4 | 2h30-3h | inclus dans le forfait |
| Paro | Tiger's Nest (car park) | voiture puis randonnee | 20 min + 2-3h on foot | inclus + entree monastere |
| Thimphou | Phuentsholing (Indian border) | route de montagne | 5-6h | inclus dans le forfait |
Indicative prices for 2025-2026. Fares vary by season, demand and how far ahead you book.
Vehicle rental 🛵
Scooter / Motorbike
Not relevant — two-wheelers not rented to tourists
Car
Self-drive is not permitted for tourists: vehicle + driver included in the package
International permit : Not required (French license accepted)
Transport scams to know ⚠️
Fake tour operator
The trip must go through a licensed operator; unlicensed middlemen tout online.
Tip :Verifie la licence sur visitbhutan.com avant tout paiement.
Taxi without a meter
Inflated prices for foreigners in Thimphu or Paro.
Tip :Set the fare in advance or go through your guide/driver.
Practical tips
- The flight to Paro is one of the most technical landings in the world: only a few certified pilots land there, in daylight only.
- The roads are winding and prone to motion sickness: bring something to fight nausea.
- Tout le transport terrestre est organise par ton operateur avec chauffeur : tu n'as ni bus ni location a gerer.
Other transport guides
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