Getting Around Bhutan

Air

Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines operates several domestic air travel routes. The popular ones include:
• Paro to Bathpalathang (Jakar): This route connects western Bhutan to the central valleys, known for their cultural sites and natural beauty.
• Paro to Yongphulla (Trashigang): Linking the western region to the east, this flight offers access to the less-visited eastern districts.
• Paro to Gelephu: Connecting the western part of Bhutan to the southern regions.

These flights significantly reduce travel time compared to road journeys, which can be long and arduous due to the mountainous terrain. For instance, a flight from Paro to Jakar takes approximately 30 minutes, whereas the same journey by road can take around 10 hours.

Road

Bhutan's road network winds through some of the most breathtaking (and occasionally hair-raising) mountain landscapes in the world. While distances may look short on a map, the country's terrain ensures that journeys take considerably longer than expected—thanks to winding roads, steep inclines, and the occasional yak crossing.

The East-West Highway (also called the Lateral Road) is Bhutan's main road artery, stretching from Phuentsholing in the southwest to Trashigang in the east. Major towns like Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Wangdue, and Bumthang are connected by this network.

Side of the road

Road Quality

Road conditions vary—some sections are newly paved and smooth, while others are prone to landslides and construction delays, especially in the monsoon season. Winding mountain roads and sharp hairpin bends make for slow travel, and some routes may close temporarily due to weather or maintenance work. Travellers should be prepared for bumpy stretches.

Car Hire

Self-driving is not permitted for tourists (except for those from India). Hence, a few local companies offer chauffeur-driven car rental services, providing vehicles with experienced drivers to navigate Bhutan's challenging terrain.

Taxi

Taxis are available in Paro and Thimphu, where independent travel is permitted. Most taxis are unmetered, so please agree on a fare before starting the journey.

Coach

Visitors take private coaches organised by their licensed tour operator(s), but for general information, Bhutan has several coach operators, including Meto Transport, Khorlo Transport, Pelyab Transport, Sernya Transport, Dhug Transport, and Bumpa Transport. Key routes include:
• Thimphu to Phuentsholing.
• Thimphu to Gelephu.
• Thimphu to Trashigang (which includes an overnight stop).

Regulations

Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and using mobile phones while driving is prohibited. Speed limits on the highways are 50 km/h (31 mph), while in urban areas are 20 km/h (12 mph).

Urban travel

Licensed tour operators arrange urban travel for most visitors, providing transportation to get from point A to point B.

In Paro and Thimphu, where independent travel is permitted, visitors can get around by:
• Walking, as both cities are relatively small and pedestrian-friendly.
• Taxis, which are available but mostly unmetered—be sure to agree on a fare before starting the journey.
• Bicycle rentals (available in Thimphu).

Rail