How To Reach Bumthang

How to Reach Bumthang, Bhutan

Bumthang, often called the spiritual heart of Bhutan, is known for its ancient monasteries, sacred sites, and picturesque valleys. Since Bumthang has a domestic airport, travelers can either fly or travel by road from other parts of Bhutan.


1. By Air (Fastest Route)

  1. Nearest Airport: Bathpalathang Airport (BUT), Bumthang
  2. Flights Available From: Paro International Airport (PBH)
  3. Airline: Druk Air operates limited flights (weather-dependent).

Paro to Bumthang Flight Duration: ~35-40 minutes
Ticket Cost: ~INR 5,000-7,000 (subject to change)

Note: Flights are limited and often get canceled due to weather conditions.


2. By Road (Scenic Route)

Since flights are limited, most travelers reach Bumthang by road from Thimphu or Punakha.

From Thimphu to Bumthang:

  1. Distance: ~268 km
  2. Travel Time: ~9-10 hours
  3. Route: Thimphu → Wangdue Phodrang → Trongsa → Bumthang
  4. Transport Options:
    1. Taxi: Costs ~INR 6,000-8,000 (private cab)
    2. Bus: Limited buses available (more affordable but takes longer)

From Punakha to Bumthang:

  1. Distance: ~214 km
  2. Travel Time: ~7-8 hours
  3. Route: Punakha → Trongsa → Bumthang
  4. Transport Options:
    1. Taxi: Costs ~INR 5,000-7,000
    2. Bus: Limited government buses available

From Trongsa to Bumthang (Nearest City):

  1. Distance: ~68 km
  2. Travel Time: ~2 hours
  3. Transport Options: Taxi or local buses

3. By Land (From India) + Road to Bumthang

If entering Bhutan by land, travelers must first reach Phuentsholing, the border town, and then continue by road.

Popular Route:

  1. Bagdogra (IXB) to Phuentsholing: ~4-hour drive
  2. Phuentsholing to Thimphu: ~5-6 hours
  3. Thimphu to Bumthang: ~9-10 hours

Best Option: Stay overnight in Thimphu or Punakha, then travel to Bumthang.

More in How To Reach Bhutan

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Spring (March-May): Ideal for trekking and lush landscapes.
  2. Autumn (Sept-Nov): Best for festivals and clear views.
  3. Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold but fewer tourists and great for spiritual retreats.
  4. Monsoon (June-Aug): Greenery but heavy rainfall can affect road travel.

  1. Jambay Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
  2. Kurjey Lhakhang: Sacred monastery where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
  3. Tamshing Lhakhang: Famous for ancient Buddhist murals.
  4. Jakar Dzong: A historic fortress with panoramic valley views.
  5. Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake): A sacred pilgrimage site.

  1. Paro to Bumthang: ~10-11 hours by road (~314 km) / ~40 mins by flight
  2. Thimphu to Bumthang: ~9-10 hours (~268 km)
  3. Punakha to Bumthang: ~7-8 hours (~214 km)
  4. Trongsa to Bumthang: ~2 hours (~68 km)

  1. Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN)
  2. Indian Rupees (except ?2,000 notes) are accepted

  1. Taxis: Available but expensive for long distances.
  2. Buses: Limited; recommended to book private transport.
  3. Biking/Trekking: Popular for exploring nearby monasteries.

  1. Local Dishes: Buckwheat pancakes, Red rice, Ema Datshi (chili cheese).
  2. Popular Restaurants: Swiss Guest House (cheese & bakery items), Sonam’s Kitchen.

Yes, Bumthang is very safe, with friendly locals and low crime rates.

  1. Indians: Need a Bumthang Special Permit, issued in Thimphu (passport or voter ID required).
  2. Other Foreigners: Must have a Bhutan visa, arranged through a tour operator.
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