International Flights to Bhutan – Paro International Airport (PBH)
Paro International Airport (PBH) is the sole international airport in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Nestled in a deep valley at an altitude of 2,235 meters (7,333 feet), and surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, it is often described as one of the most scenic and challenging airports in the world. Due to the airport’s unique geographical location and short runway, only specially trained pilots are allowed to land there.
Airlines Operating in Bhutan
Bhutan has two official airlines that are permitted to operate international flights in and out of the country:
1. Druk Air – Royal Bhutan Airlines
Bhutan’s national carrier, based in Paro
Operates both international and domestic flights
International destinations include:
India (Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Gaya)
Nepal (Kathmandu)
Thailand (Bangkok)
Singapore
Bangladesh (Dhaka)
Druk Air also connects Paro to Bathpalathang Airport (BUT) in central Bhutan via a 35-minute domestic flight.
2. Bhutan Airlines
A private airline based in Thimphu
Provides international flights to and from:
Kathmandu (Nepal)
Delhi and Kolkata (India)
Bangkok (Thailand)
Popular International Gateways to Bhutan
Most travelers to Bhutan connect through major South Asian cities. Common international hubs include:
Kathmandu (Nepal) – Very popular for Nepal–Bhutan combined tours
Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, and Guwahati (India)
Bangkok (Thailand) – A major transit hub for Southeast Asian and Western travelers
Singapore – A convenient gateway for travelers from Australia and the Pacific region
Important Travel Notes:
No independent travel: Bhutan requires all international visitors (except nationals from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) to pre-arrange their trip through a licensed tour operator.
Flight bookings: Flights are often included as part of your Bhutan tour package and arranged by your travel agency.
Limited seats: Flights to Bhutan can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons (March–May and September–November), so early booking is highly recommended.
Luggage restrictions: Due to high-altitude operations and short runways, weight limits for checked and carry-on baggage may be stricter than in other countries.
Flight duration to Paro International Airport
Please note that additional visas may be required when tr ansiting through these cities
Bangkok, Thailand - 3hr 15min
Kathmandu, Nepal - 1hr 15min
New Delhi, India - 2hr 20min
Singapore - 6hr 15min
Dhaka, Bangladesh - 1hr 10min
Kolkata, India - 1hr 15min
