Bhutan is often known as the Land of Happiness, and after hearing so much about its serene landscapes, warm people, and peaceful way of life, we couldn’t resist experiencing it for ourselves. Inspired by the countless beautiful photos and videos we had seen, we decided to embark on a quick getaway to Bhutan.

Bhutan is visa-free for Indians, but an entry permit and Sustainable Development Fee are required. We applied for the permit online and, through a local travel agency, booked a Department of Tourism-certified hotel and mandatory tour guide.



We chose to fly from Kolkata to Bhutan, a convenient 1-hour-10-minute journey. Bhutan is also accessible by flights from Delhi and Guwahati, or by road via Siliguri through the Jaigaon–Phuentsholing border.

The flight itself was an experience, as Paro Airport is renowned for its breathtaking location and challenging approach. Nestled in a deep valley surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks reaching 18,000 feet, it is considered one of the world’s most spectacular and technically demanding airports to land at.

Our arrival at Paro International Airport was greeted by the fresh, cool mountain air and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. After immigration, we met our guide and driver and began the 1.5-hour scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. The journey offered stunning views of flowing rivers, lush greenery, and majestic mountains. With a population of around 140,000, Thimphu is a unique capital—and famously, the world’s only national capital without traffic lights.


We checked into our hotel and decided to try out some local favorites at the hotel restaurant. Right next door was an evening local market with many souvenirs and handmade items which we decided to stop by and buy some gifts to take back home.



The next day, we set out on a full-day excursion to Punakha, a scenic three-hour drive from Thimphu. En route, we stopped at Dochula Pass, perched at 3,080 meters and offering spectacular mountain views. We then visited the magnificent Punakha Dzong, built at the confluence of two rivers. Once Bhutan’s capital until 1955, it continues to serve as the winter residence of the monastic body.



On our third day, we returned to Paro, stopping at the Textile Museum and Buddha Point, home to the country’s largest Buddha statue. We reached our hotel by evening.



On our final day, we hoped to trek to Taktshang Monastery, or Tiger’s Nest, but heavy rain made the five-hour hike impossible. Instead, we admired it from afar and explored Paro’s other highlights, including Drukgyel Dzong, the National Museum, and Paro Dzong.

Before we knew it, our quick getaway to Bhutan had come to an end, leaving us grateful for its breathtaking landscapes, warm people, peaceful monasteries, and simple way of life. Bhutan truly lives up to its name as the Land of Happiness.


Good to Know

Must Try: Ema Datshi, Toh-tse with Ezay

What to Shop: Local woven fabrics, Thangka paintings, carved masks & wooden artefacts

Money Matters: Indian Rupees are widely accepted alongside the local currency

Best Time to Visit: October–November or March–April