Nearest Airport to Bhutan: Bhutan, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a stunning Himalayan kingdom known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and serene monasteries. As a country prioritizing sustainable tourism, Bhutan has limited entry points, making air travel the most convenient way to reach this beautiful destination.
If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, you might wonder: Which is the nearest airport to Bhutan? The answer is Paro International Airport (PBH), the only international airport in Bhutan. However, if you’re traveling from a country that doesn’t have direct flights to Bhutan, you may need to consider nearby airports in India and other neighboring countries.
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Nearest Airport to Bhutan: Paro International Airport (PBH)
- Location: Paro, Bhutan
- Distance from Thimphu (Capital City): ~50 km (~1.5-hour drive)
- IATA Code: PBH
- Elevation: 2,235 meters (7,333 feet)
- Airlines Operating: Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines), Bhutan Airlines
- International Connections: Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Singapore
Why Paro Airport?
Paro International Airport is Bhutan’s only international airport and serves as the main gateway for foreign travelers. It is one of the most scenic yet challenging airports in the world, nestled between towering Himalayan peaks. Due to its high-altitude location and short runway, only a few certified pilots are allowed to land here.
How to Reach Bhutan via Paro Airport?
If you’re flying internationally, you can reach Bhutan via direct flights from:
- India: Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati
- Nepal: Kathmandu
- Thailand: Bangkok
- Bangladesh: Dhaka
- Singapore: Singapore
Once you land in Paro, you can travel to Thimphu (1.5 hours by road) or other parts of Bhutan via private taxis or pre-arranged tours.
Alternative Airports Near Bhutan (India)
If you are unable to find a direct flight to Paro, the next best option is to fly to a nearby Indian airport and travel to Bhutan by road.
1. Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), India
- Location: Siliguri, West Bengal, India
- Distance to Bhutan: ~175 km (~4-5 hours by road to Phuentsholing, Bhutan)
- International Flights: Limited (mostly domestic)
- Best For: Travelers from India or connecting via Delhi, Kolkata, or Guwahati
How to Reach Bhutan from Bagdogra?
- Take a taxi from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s border town (~4-5 hours).
- From Phuentsholing, travel to Thimphu or Paro by Bhutanese transport (~5-6 hours).
2. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), India
- Location: Guwahati, Assam, India
- Distance to Bhutan: ~325 km (~6-7 hours by road to Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan)
- International Flights: Limited (mostly domestic)
- Best For: Travelers from India’s northeastern states
How to Reach Bhutan from Guwahati?
- Take a taxi to Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan’s eastern border (~6-7 hours).
- From Samdrup Jongkhar, travel to Trashigang or Thimphu by Bhutanese transport.
3. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), India
- Location: Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Distance to Bhutan: ~650 km (~1-hour flight to Paro or 14-16 hours by road)
- International Flights: Many global connections
- Best For: International travelers looking for a convenient Indian airport
How to Reach Bhutan from Kolkata?
- Take a direct flight from Kolkata to Paro International Airport (1 hour).
- Or, fly to Bagdogra and take a road trip to Bhutan.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
Choose Paro Airport If:
- You can find a direct flight from your city to Paro.
- You want the fastest and most direct way to enter Bhutan.
Choose Bagdogra Airport If:
- You are flying from another Indian city or have a connecting flight through Delhi/Kolkata.
- You prefer a road trip to Bhutan.
Choose Guwahati Airport If:
- You are in India’s northeastern region.
- You want to explore eastern Bhutan.
Choose Kolkata Airport If:
- You need an international hub with many flight options.
- You plan to take a connecting flight to Paro or travel by road.