How to Travel to Bhutan from the United States: the Ultimate Guide for 2025/2026

Traveling to Bhutan from the United States is an adventurous journey to the other side of the world. It’s a big journey that can benefit from some early preparation.

It’s essential to know where Bhutan is, how to get there, what travel documents you need, and the best time to visit.

Here, we’ll help you have a smooth trip and arrive ready to discover one of the most unique travel destinations in the world.

Where is Bhutan and how to get there from the United States?

Bhutan is a small, landlocked country in South Asia. It’s nestled between India and China, bordered to the north by China and to the south, east, and west by India.

Despite its close proximity to several major Asian countries, Bhutan remains one of the least accessible nations in the world due to its mountainous terrain and carefully regulated tourism policies.

From either coast of the United States, Bhutan is over 12,000 km away, literally halfway around the world.

The distance separating major US hubs like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago from Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport, means there are no direct flights from the United States to Bhutan.

The only way to reach Bhutan from the US is by flying and connecting through a third country in Asia that offers direct service to Paro International Airport.

How to fly to Bhutan from the United States?

There are no direct flights to Bhutan from the United States, so travelers must connect to through nearby regional hubs.

Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. Currently, non-stop international flights to Bhutan are available from five countries, including major international and regional travel hubs. Choose flights from Bhutan’s neighbors, India, Nepal, or Bangladesh, or more, from the international hubs of Bangkok and Singapore.

For most US travelers, the best transit hubs are Bangkok, Kathmandu, Delhi, and Singapore. Direct flights are available from major US cities to Thailand, India, and Singapore, making them convenient transfer points for reaching Bhutan. Kathmandu, in Nepal, can be reached from connections in Europe, Dubai, and Asia. Nepal offers travelers a chance to explore one of the other great Himalayan destinations in addition to Bhutan.

How to obtain a Bhutan tourist Visa for US travelers?

Travelers from the United States need a visa to travel to Bhutan. The process is different from many country counties.

To get a Bhutan visa, you must first book a tour through a registered local travel agency. They will make the visa application on your behalf after you have completed payment for the tour.

Send the travel agency a scanned copy of your current valid passport. Your passport should have at least six months remaining validity and one blank visa page.

Once the Entry Permit is approved, you will receive a Visa Clearance Letter, which you will need to provide the details of in order to book the flight to Bhutan with either DrukAir or Bhutan Airlines.

When you arrive at Paro International Airport, you will need to present your passport and the Visa Clearance Letter to the immigration desk, and get the Bhutan Visa stamped on your passport.

Is it possible to travel independently in Bhutan? A Personal Guide and Driver are Required

Travelers in Bhutan are required to travel on arranged tours that include a guide and transportation.

Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy as part of preserving its cultural and natural heritage. Arranged Bhutan tours help to ensure a high-quality experience for all visitors while minimizing impact on the country.

The benefits of traveling to Bhutan on a private tour are numerous. You get a private vehicle, a private guide, and a private driver.

Experienced guides will help you understand the local culture and provide background information on customs and traditions.

Since the packaged tours include all the major costs like accommodations and meals, the only additional costs while you’re there are for souvenirs and incidentals.

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Bhutan’s subtropical climate makes it a great year round destination, but spring and autumn are considered the best time to go. From March to May and September to November, the clear, warm weather makes it the best time to visit Bhutan. The spring landscapes are vibrant with blooming flowers, and clear autumn skies make for great visibility. It’s the prized trekking season with amazing Himalayan vistas.

Winter is cool and dry. Higher altitude regions can drop below freezing, but in Thimpu and Punakha, temperatures range from 2-5°c up to 15-20°c during the day. Low-altitude trekking and touring cultural sites are popular during this time.

Summer can be a good time to explore major cities like Paro and Thimphu, but it is usually not a recommended time to visit. From June to August, Bhutan experiences heavy rain with thunderstorms. Travel plans can be easily disrupted by the weather. Thick clouds block mountain views, and flooding and landslides can occur in remote parts of the country.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Bhutan from the US? From USD 200 per day.

Bhutan is not a budget travel destination, but you get a lot of value for the cost. Visitors from the United States should expect to spend at least USD 200 to USD 250 per person per day.

The Bhutanese government charged a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) to travelers of 100 USD per person per night. The SDF is used to preserve the country’s culture and natural environment as well as to improve local infrastructure.

Given the distance between the US and Bhutan, flight costs are also not inexpensive. A round-trip flight from the United States to a transit city in Asia usually ranges between 800-1500 USD. Standard accommodations are usually around 40 USD per night, while four to five-star hotels can cost anywhere from 80 to 1000 USD.

Bhutan tour costs are around 20% lower during the low travel season. You can also save money by joining a group tour. Group tours spread the costs for transportation and the guide between more people and are also a great way to meet other like-minded travelers.

What to do in Bhutan? Top 5 Experiences for US Travelers

Though Bhutan is a small country, there is a wide array of unforgettable things to do in Bhutan for travelers from the United States. From high-altitude hiking to spiritual discovery, make sure to try these top experiences.

Hike up to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Perched on a cliffside about 900 meters above the Paro Valley, the sacred Buddhist monastery is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark.

The hike up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery takes about four to five hours round-trip and lets you enjoy panoramic views of the valley.

Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and traditions in Thimphu

Unlike most world capitals, Thimphu has no traffic lights and retains a small-town charm. It’s an excellent place to visit traditional craft markets, explore the National Memorial Chorten, or watch the changing of the guard at Tashichho Dzong.

Cultural festivals, such as the Thimphu Tshechu in the fall, offer an immersive look at Bhutanese dances, music, and religious ceremonies.

Go sightseeing in Punakha

In the former capital of Bhutan you’ll find the majestic Punakha Dzong, regarded as the most beautiful fortress in the country. You can enjoy gentle hikes through rice paddies in the serene Punakha Valley.

Take a scenic trek in Gangtey

The glacial valley in central Bhutan is famous for its sweeping meadows and the endangered black-necked cranes that winter here. The Gangtey Nature Trail is one of the most accessible and rewarding day treks in Bhutan. You can also visit Gangtey Monastery, an important center of the Nyingma school of Buddhism.

Relax in a private luxury resort

Despite Bhutan’s simple atmosphere, there are incredible resorts with world-class service, wellness programs, and private views of untouched Himalayan landscapes. International brands such as Six Senses, COMO, and Aman operate stunning properties in Bhutan, and several boutique lodges provide a similarly high-end experience for your stay in Bhutan. These resorts offer the perfect way to end your trip with some rest and rejuvenation.

Are US dollars accepted in Bhutan? It’s best to convert to local currency.

US dollars are widely accepted at high-end hotels and some tourist shops, but it is recommended to convert your currency to the local Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) for everyday expenses.

Currency exchange can be done at Paro International Airport, in banks in Thimphu and Paro, or through authorized money changers. In rural areas, it’s best to carry some cash as card payment systems are not always available.

ATMs exist in major towns, but international card compatibility is inconsistent, so it’s better not to rely solely on ATM withdrawals.

Major hotels and tour operators typically accept Visa and Mastercard, but small restaurants, taxis, and markets may not.

Conclusion

Traveling to Bhutan from the United States is an exciting and rewarding journey to one of the most unique destinations in the world. You’ll fly halfway around the world, connecting through a regional hub to arrive in the charming city of Paro.

By booking your tour with us, you’ll have a smooth, guided tour with all the logistics taken care of. No matter when you go, our expertly planned itineraries and dedicated staff will give you an unforgettable experience. Feel free to contact us to start planning your trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.