Bhutan Travel Forum

Hi

I am planning to go to Bhutan in October with two other people. We are Indian citizens. I would greatly appreciate it, if anyone could answer the following queries:

1. As far as I have understood, it is not mandatory for Indians to be part of a tour organised by some agency. Being generally averse, to such tours, I would like to know whether (a) this information is correct (b) Even if it is correct, how feasible it is to travel independently, and any particular problems that people have faced in attempting such a thing in the past.

2. I am planning to enter Bhutan from Siliguri. How much should the bus journey cost? What are the timings of such buses and can bookings be made in advance and how?

3. What are the usual living rates for food, accomodation, travel, etc. I read that they are mostly comparable to Indian hill stations, and Indians have to pay the local rates.

Thanking everyone,

Harsh

Hello Harsh. In response to your questions:

1) You are correct that it is not mandatory to come with a tour agency. It's possible to travel independently, but if you want to make the most of your time here, you would need a knowledgeable taxi driver that can take you to the good spots and also serve somewhat as your guide.

2) For transportation by bus from Siliguri to Phuentsholing, you can take either an Indian or Bhutanese bus. The fares vary but are approximately 30 - 40 rupees per person and they have multiple departures throughout the day. Though you cannot reserve the Siliguri - Phuentsholing route in advance, you can reserve the departure ticket on the Bhutanese bus. Reservations shouldn't be an immediate concern as there are ample number of Indian buses which can take you to Jaigon.

3) Though the usual hotel & travel rates are fairly low, October is one of the busiest times of years in Bhutan due to the good weather and festivals, prices will be marked up considerably. It really depends on the type of accommodations you require, as well as your vehicle.

Hope this answer some of your questions. Please note that accommodations will be very hard to come by this time of year, so I highly recommend to book in advance. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me at jamie@bhutanyourway.com directly. If you'd like, we'd be happy to arrange hotel bookings and a taxi driver for you. Take care! Jamie

Hey...

Thanks a lot for all the information. Has definitely helped clear things.

Will definitely let you know in case anything comes up.

Regards,

Harsh

hi,
came across ur blog on this website, so since i am planning to go to bhutan as well, can u please advise me on how to reah there, i am a citizen of india, also worth knowing is that do i need to take some tour package or i can go on my own, last thing i would like to know is that, which is a better place paro or thimpu, since i have at max 3 days for travel.
hey and besides these can u also answer me abt the travel, is it expensive or costly and what abt the accomodation there
regards
rajat