Bhutan Tour by Road: Scenic Road Trip Packages from India (2026)

Why Choose a Road Trip to Bhutan?

While flights to Paro are fast, they are often expensive and you miss the real beauty of the transition from the Indian plains to the Bhutanese mountains. A Bhutan tour by road offers the freedom to stop at waterfalls, misty mountain passes, and roadside cafes that flight passengers never see.

The Roamcrafts Advantage:

Start Anywhere: We pick you up from Bagdogra Airport (IXB),NJP Railway Station, or directly from the Jaigaon Border.

Comfortable Vehicles: Choose from Toyota Innova Crysta, Hyundai Tucson, or Luxury Tempo Travellers for groups.

Hill-Expert Drivers: Our drivers are locals who know every curve of the Phuentsholing-Thimphu highway.

Popular Bhutan Road Trip Routes & Itineraries

Route 1: The Classic Gateway (via Jaigaon/Phuentsholing)

Most popular for travelers from Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai arriving at Bagdogra/NJP.

Pickup: Bagdogra Airport or NJP Station.

Drive: Drive through the lush Dooars Tea Gardens (approx. 4 hours) to reach the Jaigaon-Phuentsholing border.

The Experience: Cross the magnificent Bhutan Gate by foot or car. Watch the landscape change instantly from the bustling Indian markets to the organized, serene Bhutanese streets.

Next Stop: A 6-hour scenic drive to Thimphu via the fog-covered Gedu University and Chukha Dam.

Route 2: The Eastern Adventure (via Samdrup Jongkhar)

Best for travelers exploring Guwahati and Assam.

Pickup: Guwahati Airport.

Drive: 3 hours to the Samdrup Jongkhar border.

The Experience: Explore the less-visited Eastern districts of Bhutan.

7-Day Bhutan Road Trip Itinerary (Best Seller)

A perfect mix of driving pleasure and sightseeing.

Day 1: Arrival & Border Crossing. Pickup from Bagdogra/NJP. Drive to Phuentsholing. Evening: Process Permit & stroll around Zangto Pelri Park. Stay: Phuentsholing.

Day 2: The Mountain Drive (Phuentsholing to Thimphu). The highlight of the road trip. Stop at the majestic Rinchending Monastery for a valley view. Photo stop at the Gedu waterfall. Stay: Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing. Drive to Buddha Dordenma (Giant Buddha Statue). Visit the Takin Preserve and Simply Bhutan Museum.

Day 4: The High Pass Drive (Thimphu to Punakha). Drive across Dochula Pass (3,100m). On a clear day, see the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong at the confluence of Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers.

Day 5: Punakha to Paro. A scenic drive back via Wangdue. Evening walk in Paro Town market.

Day 6: Tiger’s Nest Hike. Drive to the base and hike to Taktsang Monastery.

Day 7: The Return Drive. Drive back to Hasimara/Bagdogra for your departure, carrying memories of the winding roads.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bhutan Road Travel

Q: Are the roads in Bhutan good?
Yes, the primary highway from Phuentsholing to Thimphu and Paro is well-paved (double laned in most areas). However, it is a winding mountain road, so we recommend carrying motion sickness medicine if you are sensitive.

Q: Can we take our own Indian car to Bhutan?
Yes, Indian registered cars are allowed. However, you must obtain a Route Permit from the RSTA office in Phuentsholing and pay a daily fee of ₹4,500 (Green Tax). To save money and hassle, most tourists prefer hiring our Bhutan-registered vehicles.

Q: How much does a Bhutan road trip cost?
A 6-day road trip package (including hotels, vehicle, and driver) starts from approximately ₹25,500 per person (for a group of 4). This is significantly cheaper than flying into Paro.