Travelers' Choice
Your journey to the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan begins with understanding the unique process of arrival. Unlike most destinations, entry into Bhutan is carefully managed to preserve its unique culture and environment. Access is primarily by air, landing at the picturesque Paro International Airport (PBH), renowned for its challenging yet spectacular approach amidst the Himalayan peaks. Manifest Bhutan simplifies this process entirely for you, handling both your visa application and assisting with flight bookings on the kingdom's national carriers. This page provides an overview of the flight options and the straightforward, pre-arranged visa procedure.
Paro International Airport (PBH) is the sole international airport in Bhutan. Nestled in a deep valley at an elevation of 2,200 meters, the flight into Paro is an unforgettable experience in itself, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas on clear days. Only certified pilots are permitted to fly this challenging route.
Airlines: Two Bhutanese airlines operate international flights into Paro:
Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines: The national carrier, offering flights from several gateway cities.
Bhutan Airlines: A private airline also providing services from select locations.
Gateway Cities: Flights to Paro (PBH) originate from several cities in Asia. Common gateways include:
Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)
Singapore (SIN)
Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)
Delhi, India (DEL)
Kolkata, India (CCU)
Dhaka, Bangladesh (DAC)
Guwahati, India (GAU)
Gaya, India (GAY)
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (DXB)
(Note: Routes and schedules are subject to change; Manifest Bhutan will advise on the best options based on your origin and travel dates.)
Booking Assistance: Manifest Bhutan works directly with both airlines and can arrange your flight bookings into and out of Paro as part of your tour package. This ensures seamless coordination with your itinerary and visa. While you can view schedules online, booking is typically handled through registered tour operators like us.
Bhutan employs a unique visa policy. With the exception of nationals from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, all visitors require a visa, which must be pre-arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator like Manifest Bhutan. There is no need to visit a Bhutanese embassy or consulate.
The Process:
1. Confirm Your Tour: Once you finalize and confirm your travel itinerary with Manifest Bhutan and make the required payment, we begin the visa application process on your behalf.
2. Passport Details: We will require a clear, colour scan of your passport photo page. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of departure from Bhutan.
3. Application Submission: Manifest Bhutan submits your visa application to the Department of Immigration, Royal Government of Bhutan.
4. Visa Clearance: Upon approval (typically processed swiftly once payment and passport details are received), we receive a Visa Clearance Letter. The tourist visas are given as e-visa to third country visitors.
5. Letter Provided to You: We will send you this Visa Clearance Letter. You need to print this letter and bring it with you.
6. Visa Stamping: Upon arrival at Paro Airport, present your Visa Clearance Letter at the immigration counter. Your passport will then be stamped with the actual visa.
Visa Fee: The visa fee must be paid along with the mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) framework.
Simplicity: The key takeaway is that Manifest Bhutan handles the entire visa application process. Your primary responsibility is to provide us with your valid passport details and confirm your tour.
Let Manifest Bhutan handle the complexities of flights and visas, ensuring a smooth start to your incredible journey. Contact us to discuss your travel dates and preferred gateway city.