This article is on how to go to Bhutan by Land. If you’re planning to go to Bhutan by flight, visit our page on how to fly to Bhutan.

Before Bhutan was accessible by flight, the only way to travel to Bhutan was by foot. The two main entry points into the country was from the North and from the South. From the north, you could enter into Bhutan via Tibet while the south was via the plains of Assam and West Bengal. With the planned economic development and increasing number of roads, accessibility to Bhutan was made easy.

3 Authorized Overland Points:

Right now, there are three authorised overland points of entry into Bhutan for foreigners.

1. First point of entry is through Phuentsholing in South Western Bhutan from West Bengal, India. If you’re considering this entry point, we’d recommend that you spend a night in Jaigaon as it is the nearest town to Phuntsholing. Nevertheless, do take note that the town is disorganized and the accommodation is extremely basic. After crossing Phuentshioling, your journey then begins its mountainous climb through numerous turns and hair-pin bends. After close to six hours, you will arrive in Thimphu, the capital city.

2. The second entry point is at Samdrup Jongkhar in South Eastern Bhutan that borders the Indian State of Assam. This is a suitable entry point for those looking to explore eastern Bhutan. Samdru Jongkhar is 3 hours’ drive from Guwahati city in India. The airport in Guwahati is one that could connect you to other destinations such as Delhi, Bombay, Kolkata and Bangkok. Tourist entering to Bhutan via Samdru Jongkhar will need to travel through Trashigang, Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, Wnagdue Phodrang and then finally arriving in Thimphu.  The distance spans about 700 km and will take anyone a minimum of three days to arrive in Thimphu.

3. The third entry point is Gelephu in central southern Bhutan. It is approximately 250 km from Thimphu. This overland option will take you through the sub-tropical areas of Bhutan before you enter into the alpine zone and eventually arriving in Thimphu. All in all, this journey spans about ten hours.

Note that the roads in Bhutan are narrow and uneven with a lot of bends. So travelling speed is usually quite slow. Plan your itinerary by taking ample travelling time into consideration. For more professional planning and trip execution, do contact us, Bhutan Travel Operator.