Flights to Bhutan
Buy Flights to Bhutan and Pay Later
Splitting the cost of your flight to Bhutan with Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) can make your trip more manageable financially. Unlike paying upfront, BNPL allows you to split the cost of your flight tickets into smaller, more budget-friendly instalments.
Many plans offer interest-free payments within a specific timeframe - this can ease budgeting and potentially save your money compared to traditional financing options! Enjoy a stress-free travel experience to Bhutan with over 40 ways to pay. We work with payment providers such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna, Clearpay and PayPal.
Popular Airlines Flying to Bhutan
Here are the two favourite airlines flying to airports in Bhutan.
Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
This is the national flag carrier and the larger of the two airlines. It operates flights to various international destinations, including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dhaka, Bagdogra, Gaya, Guwahati, and as of late 2024, Dubai.
Discover Drukair✈️
Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air)
his is Bhutan's first private airline. It also offers international flights to destinations like Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu, and has recently added Bangalore and Mumbai to its routes.
Discover Bhutan Airlines✈️
Book Flights to Bhutan
Deep in the Himalayas lives a kingdom famous for its ancient traditions and unique spiritual connections - Bhutan. It's a land decorated with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys and centuries-old monasteries perched dramatically on cliff sides.
Most visit Bhutan to see its Dzongs - these are the huge fortress-monasteries scattered across the landscape, with Punakha Zong and Paro Taktsang being the most popular.
Bhutan's culture is best experienced during its festivals - you can witness the Tshechu masked dances and archery competitions, or simply browse the markets that sell handcrafted textiles and souvenirs. If you're up for a challenge, have a go at the Snowman Trek - a multi-week hiking journey throughout the Lunana region.
To get you started on your adventure in Bhutan, you can book your flights right here at Alternative Airlines. We ticket 600+ global airlines that fly to all corners of the Earth, including Bhutan. We also offer 40+ ways for you to pay for your flights to Bhutan for even more convenience and flexibility! Book flights today to Thimphu, Gelephu, Jakar, Paro or Tashigang.
Things to do in Bhutan
Thinking of visiting Bhutan but unsure where to start? Here are some great activities to include in your trip!
Hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
This idyllic monastery, perched precariously on a cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley, is perhaps the most famous landmark in Bhutan. The hike itself is a rewarding experience, offering stunning views and a sense of spiritual accomplishment. No visit to Bhutan is complete without making the pilgrimage to this sacred site.
Explore Punakha Dzong
Known as "the palace of great happiness or bliss," Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan, and widely considered one of the most beautiful. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers, its impressive architecture and serene setting make it a must-visit. It historically served as the capital of Bhutan and still holds significant religious and administrative importance.
Witness (or Try!) Traditional Bhutanese Archery
Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and is deeply rooted in its national identity. Unlike the Olympic version, traditional Bhutanese archery is a lively, social event. Teams shoot at small targets from a significant distance (around 145 meters), often accompanied by dancing, singing, and good-natured heckling from the opposing team's supporters. It's a fantastic way to experience authentic Bhutanese camaraderie.
Looking to Book Cheap Flights to Bhutan?
If you are searching for affordable flights to Bhutan, then Alternative Airlines is the place to be! We offer a variety of methods to make your money go further when you travel:
Payment plans
We are proud to partner with some payment providers which allow you to split the cost of your flights into more manageable payments. Whether you are flying economy on an ultra-low-cost carrier or first class with a premium airline, you can find a plan that suits your needs.
Flying with affordable airlines
Looking to snag a bargain to your favourite destination? The best place to start looking is to identify low-cost airlines that can get you there on the cheap. They will charge extra for baggage and other bonuses you would get for free with a full carrier, but if you are fine travelling light and basic, you'll save yourself a lot of money.
Cheapest day to fly
Knowing not only the who and where, but the when of flying can also contribute to cheaper tickets. We have written a guide for you to be able to identify the right time for you, backed up by real data and expert sources. Read our blog for the trade secrets on the cheapest days to buy flights to find out more.
Best fare finder
Still bargain hunting? Well, here's a little secret. We've cooked up a secret weapon. Our best fare-finder tool allows you to easily and quickly compare all of the flight prices on the week surrounding your original search and find the most affordable flight.
Bhutan Travel Tips
- Embrace the SDF & Guided Travel: Bhutan's "High Value, Low Volume" tourism uses a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100, funding the nation's welfare. While limited independent travel is now possible, most cultural sites and regions still require an accredited guide. Many visitors opt for all-inclusive tour packages for a tight and well-managed experience.
- Respect Local Culture and Etiquette: Show reverence for Bhutan's Buddhist traditions by dressing modestly—shoulders and knees covered—especially at religious sites. Always ask permission before photographing people, and be mindful of photography restrictions within sacred spaces. Maintain a respectful demeanour in public, avoiding loud voices or impolite gestures.
- Prepare for Altitude and Variable Weather: Be aware of altitude sickness as Bhutan features high elevations; consult your doctor for preventative advice. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer ideal weather, but pack layers for temperature changes. Expect potential travel delays or rain during the summer monsoon season.
- Embrace the Journey and Slow Down: Bhutanese travel can be slow due to winding roads. Embrace the unhurried pace to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes. Be flexible with itineraries, as flights can be weather-dependent. Use this opportunity to disconnect and appreciate Bhutan's serenity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What language do they speak in Bhutan?
The official and national language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. It's a Tibeto-Burman language that is closely related to Tibetan. While Dzongkha is the official language and taught in schools, you'll find that many Bhutanese, especially those in the tourism sector and younger generations, also speak English quite well. Beyond Dzongkha, there are also many other regional languages and dialects spoken throughout Bhutan, which belong to its diverse ethnic groups. Some of the other widely spoken languages include Tshangla (also known as Sharchopkha) and Nepali (Lhotshamkha).
Which season is best to visit Bhutan?
The best seasons to visit Bhutan are generally considered to be the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). While occasional pre-monsoon showers can occur in May, the skies are generally clear, offering fantastic views of the Himalayas. Days are mild and comfortable, perfect for sightseeing and light trekking, and this is when the valleys burst into colour with rhododendrons, magnolias, and other wildflowers. Visiting during Autumn? Towards mid-November, the endangered black-necked cranes begin to arrive in the Phobjikha Valley for the winter.
Is Bhutan expensive?
Yes, Bhutan is generally considered an expensive destination for most international travellers. This is primarily due to its "High Value, Low Volume" tourism policy, which includes a mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). As of September 2023, this fee is US$100 per person, per night (reduced from an earlier US$200), and it's paid in advance for the duration of your stay. This fee contributes significantly to the country's free healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation, but it means a substantial fixed cost before accounting for accommodation, meals, activities, or guides, which are additional expenses. While this system helps preserve Bhutan's unique character and prevents mass tourism, it sets a higher price point compared to many other destinations.
Is Bhutan safe?
Bhutan is widely considered a very safe destination for tourists. It has a remarkably low crime rate, particularly for violent crime. The Bhutanese people are known for being welcoming, peace-loving, and guided by Buddhist principles that emphasize non-violence.
While rare, petty theft like pickpocketing or bag snatching can occur, especially in more crowded urban areas like Thimphu. Be mindful of your belongings.
Roads in Bhutan can be winding, narrow, and sometimes poorly maintained, especially during the monsoon season (June to September) when landslides can occur. Travel with reputable tour operators who use experienced drivers.