Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is unlike anywhere else: carefully protected forests, monasteries clinging to cliffs and a country that measures progress in happiness. For Indian travellers it is also refreshingly simple — no visa, Indian rupees widely accepted and a short journey from Lucknow.
Bhutan's highlights
- Thimphu: the giant Buddha Dordenma statue, Tashichho Dzong and the weekend market.
- Dochula Pass: 108 memorial stupas with Himalayan views on clear days.
- Punakha: the beautiful Punakha Dzong at the meeting of two rivers, and Bhutan's longest suspension bridge.
- Paro: the hike to Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang) monastery, Bhutan's most famous sight, plus the National Museum.
- Phuentsholing: the border town on the road route via Bagdogra.
Entry for Indian travellers
- Indian citizens do not need a visa. You receive an entry permit with a valid passport or Voter ID card.
- Indian visitors pay Bhutan's Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of ₹1,200 per person per night, as per current rules. Children may pay a reduced rate.
- Permits for travel beyond Thimphu and Paro, such as Punakha, are arranged as part of your itinerary.
Rules are set by Bhutan's government and can change, so our team confirms the latest before you travel.
Getting there from Lucknow
- By air: fly to Paro via Delhi or Kolkata on Bhutan's national airlines. The landing into Paro valley is spectacular.
- By road: fly to Bagdogra and drive to the Phuentsholing border, then on to Thimphu — a scenic, budget-friendly option.
Best time to visit
- March to May: spring blossoms and festivals.
- September to November: clear skies and the best mountain views.
- December to February: cold but clear, with fewer visitors.
Our Bhutan packages
- Bhutan Short Break – Thimphu & Paro 5D/4N
- Bhutan Thimphu, Punakha & Paro 6D/5N
- Bhutan Classic – Thimphu, Punakha & Paro with Tiger's Nest 7D/6N
- Bhutan Thimphu, Punakha & Paro 8D/7N
- Bhutan by Road via Bagdogra – Phuentsholing, Thimphu, Punakha & Paro 9D/8N
Good to know
- The Tiger's Nest hike takes four to six hours round trip; ponies are available for part of the way.
- Dress modestly at dzongs and monasteries — long sleeves and long trousers or skirts.
- Smoking in public places is restricted in Bhutan.
- International packages carry 5% GST and 2% TCS as per government norms.
Why book with Sheeraz Tours
19+ years of experience, IATA-approved ticketing and 50,000+ travellers yearly from our office in Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow.
Choose a package above and tap Get a Quote, or WhatsApp our team. We'll arrange permits, the SDF, flights and hotels.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for Bhutan?+
No. Indian citizens receive an entry permit with a valid passport or Voter ID card.
What is the SDF for Indian tourists in Bhutan?+
Indian visitors pay a Sustainable Development Fee of ₹1,200 per person per night under current rules, with reduced rates for some children.
How do you reach Bhutan from Lucknow?+
Fly to Paro via Delhi or Kolkata, or fly to Bagdogra and travel by road through the Phuentsholing border.
How many days are enough for Bhutan?+
Five days covers Thimphu and Paro. Six to seven days adds Punakha and the Tiger's Nest hike at a comfortable pace.
How difficult is the Tiger's Nest hike?+
It is a moderate hike of four to six hours round trip. Ponies can carry you part of the way up.