How to Book Flights to Bhutan: Routes, Airlines, and Best Prices

If you’re dreaming of Bhutan, your journey starts with getting to Paro (PBH), the kingdom’s only international airport—and one of the world’s most spectacular approaches. Two Bhutanese carriers, Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) and Bhutan Airlines, handle almost all commercial flights into the country, connecting Paro with key Asian hubs so you can reach Bhutan in one or two hops from most places.

In practice, you’ll usually route via Bangkok (BKK), Singapore, Delhi (DEL), Kolkata (CCU), or Kathmandu (KTM). Drukair also operates seasonal and specialty routes such as Paro–Gaya–Bangkok, and has introduced Paro–Dubai services, which can be handy if you’re coming from the Middle East or Europe.

Best Routes to Bhutan

From Southeast Asia: Bangkok is the most frequent and flexible gateway, served by both Drukair and Bhutan Airlines with direct or short-stop services into Paro. Travellers from Singapore can also fly Drukair on a twice-weekly Singapore–Guwahati–Paro rotation, which avoids backtracking via Bangkok.

From South Asia: Delhi and Kolkata offer multiple weekly options and easy domestic connections. From Nepal, Kathmandu–Paro flights are ideal for those combining an Everest adventure with a Bhutan trip.

From the Middle East and Europe: Connect via Delhi, Bangkok or Dubai depending on your preferred route and schedule. Always check in with a Drukair representative before your journey, as Bhutan’s carriers adjust frequencies seasonally.

Airlines That Fly to Bhutan

Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines), the national flag carrier, serves 10 international destinations across six countries:

• Bangkok (Thailand) – The busiest and most popular gateway to Bhutan, with several flights weekly. It’s the top choice for travellers from Southeast Asia, Australia, and Europe transiting via Bangkok.

• Singapore – A convenient route for travellers from Southeast Asia and beyond, currently operating via a short stop in Guwahati. Perfect for those who prefer a smooth journey without detours through India.

• Delhi (India) – One of the main South Asian entry points with frequent connections, ideal for travellers pairing Bhutan with India’s cultural or spiritual circuits.

• Kolkata (India) – Often the most economical Indian gateway, with quick 1.5-hour hops to Paro. Great for those travelling from eastern India or seeking budget-friendly options.

• Gaya (India) – A special seasonal route catering to Buddhist pilgrims visiting Bodhgaya and Bhutan’s sacred monasteries in one trip.

• Guwahati (India) – A convenient option for those exploring Northeast India before or after Bhutan, often paired with the Singapore route.

• Bagdogra (India) – A small yet strategic airport close to Darjeeling and Sikkim, offering easy access for travellers exploring the eastern Himalayas.

• Kathmandu (Nepal) – A short but stunning flight across the Himalayas, often chosen by those combining Nepal and Bhutan in one adventure.

• Dhaka (Bangladesh) – A key route for travellers from South Asia or those connecting through Dhaka’s expanding network.

• Dubai (UAE) – A long-haul link connecting Bhutan to the Middle East and Europe, operated via Delhi on select days—a valuable option for Gulf residents or travellers from Western Europe.

Both carriers provide full-service experiences with checked baggage, meals, and warm Bhutanese hospitality on board. Seats fill quickly around festivals and public holidays, so early booking is strongly advised.

What to Know About Paro Airport

Paro Airport allows daylight, visual-conditions operations only—meaning flights can only land or take off when the weather and visibility are good. Schedules tend to bunch in the morning, and valley winds may cause delays or retimings. Always build in a buffer day on arrival and avoid tight onward connections the same day.

Typical Prices and How to Get the Best Deal for Bhutan Flights

Fares are dynamic, but as a rough guide:

• Paro–Kolkata: from around USD 150–160 one-way

• Paro–Delhi: USD 200+ one way

• Paro–Bangkok: generally higher, around USD 300–400+ one way

• Paro–Singapore: approximately USD600 one way

To get the best deals:

• Book 6–10 weeks in advance for spring or autumn trips.

• Travel mid-week—Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer better prices.

• Compare hubs: Kolkata typically offers the lowest fares, while Bangkok provides more flexible long-haul connections.

• Watch for promotions: Drukair occasionally launch festival or off-peak sales.

• Consider open-jaw tickets: For example, flying into Paro via Delhi and out via Bangkok.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your Bhutan Flight

1. Pick your hub: Choose between Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, or Kathmandu based on visa requirements and flight convenience.

2. Check live schedules: Refer to Drukair seasonal schedules for your travel month.

3. Book your long-haul first: Then match it with your Paro sector, leaving enough time for potential weather delays.

4. Compare one-way and return combinations: Open-jaw routes may save money.

5. Book early for peak festivals: Spring (Mar–Apr) and autumn (Sep–Nov) are high-demand seasons.

FAQs

Do I need to book via a tour operator?
Not necessarily. You can book directly with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines, though many travellers prefer to do so through a Bhutan travel specialist to handle both flights and visa processing seamlessly.

Pro tip: If you book through Druk Asia who is also an official representative of Drukair, they can handle both your flight booking and Bhutan tour package.

Are there direct flights from Europe or North America?
No. You’ll connect via Asian hubs like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, or Kathmandu. Alternatively, Singapore and Dubai are popular transit hubs to Paro, Bhutan. 

What happens if weather disrupts my flight?
Airlines will rebook you on the next available service. This is why it’s always wise to include a buffer day in your itinerary.