The tourism sector remains the highest revenue collecting agency in the country. The policy places great emphasis on responsible tourism in Bhutan. This helps to preserve and nurture the rich culture and traditions. It also contributes to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. Bhutan is fully committed to protecting the environment at all costs.

The tourists are required to travel with licensed Bhutan tour operators accompanied by licensed tour guides. The tourists are also provided accommodations in licensed hotels. Visitors may experience all-inclusive package tours, a fixed daily tariff set by the government.

The tourism sector is established with the principle of sustainability, so tourism must be environmentally friendly and culturally conscious. Bhutanese are religious people by nature. Therefore, it is a must respect and understand the local customs and lifestyles, especially while visiting sacred sites and religious events across the country.

The most convenient entrance to Bhutan is by the country’s national carrier. As flights can be delayed because of weather, particularly during summer, it is advised to allow 24 hours before any onward connection.

Drukair and Bhutan Airlines – the only airlines flying to Bhutan

Drukair is a government-owned airline run by the investment wing, Druk Holding & Investments Ltd. Drukair operates a scheduled network within the South Asian region from its headquarter in Paro. Drukair operates three A319 for its international destinations and an ATR 42-600 for its regional destinations.

Tashi Air Pvt. Ltd, trading as Bhutan Airlines, is the first private airline in Bhutan. It operates two A319 aircraft with a seating capacity of 126 passengers which includes 12 business class seats and 114 economy seats. We have daily flights from Bangkok to Paro via Kolkata, India and three flights a week to Delhi via Kathmandu.

Bhutan has only one international airport in a picturesque valley in western Bhutan, Paro. It lies at an elevation of 2,200-meters. It is about an hour's drive from the capital, Thimphu.

There are three domestic airports in the country. This includes Bumthang in central, Tashigang in east and Gelephu in the south region.

Following cities are the gateway into Paro, Bhutan

• Bangkok in Thailand
• Dhaka in Bangladesh
• Kolkata in India
• Gaya in India
• New Delhi in India
• Bagdora in India
• Guwahati in India
• Katmandu in Nepal
• Singapore

Baggage weight limits are as follows

• 30 kg for Business class
• 20 kg f?r E??n?m? ?l???

Extra luggage charges

• US $5.00 a kg from BKK
• US $4.00 a kg from DEL
• US $2.50 a kg from all others

Arrival or departure by land is also possible through the southern border town in Phuentsholing. The nearest airport from Phuentsholing is at Bagdogra, West Bengal in India, which is about a four hours drive. Phuentsholing allows entry and exit for travelers wishing to visit the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal along with Bhutanese.

It is possible to arrange land exit through the southeastern border town in Samdrup Jongkhar. It is about a three hours drive from Guwahati, the capital of the Indian state of Assam. The visitors can also enter and exit through the southern border in Gelephu. Bhutan Bokar Tours can help to give in detail if the tourists are interested in these routes.

It is more convenient to arrive a day earlier to the flight departure for Bhutan at Bangkok in Thailand, Singapore, Delhi in India and Kathmandu in Nepal. The Bhutan flights usually depart early in the morning. It makes it difficult if the tourists miss the connection to Bhutan. But this agent gives the best to get a flight on the following day, including visa extension. However, the additional costs incurred should be borne by travelers.

Similarly, on the return journey, it is advisable to book a flight that connects on the same day unless there is a ticket that allows some flexibility. Bhutan flight schedules are subject to weather conditions in the mountains and are often altered at the last minute.

The national airline flies several times a week between most of its destinations. But flight timings and frequencies vary according to the season. Bhutan airlines' website includes details of current flight schedules and fares (airfare cancellation policy). It is recommended to check and contact the Druk Air and Bhutan airlines. Besides, Bhutan Bokar Tours & Treks will also give the latest information when planning travel arrangements. Contact the agents if there is a need to know the current flight schedules.

The magnificent mountain landscape en route is seen at its best in the winter when the country’s outlook is very pleasant with sunny skies. While flying via Kathmandu in Nepal to Paro in Bhutan, the people on the board will experience the most impressive view of the Himalayan Mountain Ranges, including the Everest region. Mountain Kanchenjunga is visible for some time on all routes when the weather is clear. It can be stated that flying to and from Bhutan is a lifetime experience to be cherished.