How to Reach Thimphu From Siliguri

If you too are thinking about how to reach Thimphu from Siliguri, you have reached the right place!

Siliguri, being one of the closest cities to Land of Thunder Dragons, proves to be a befitting destination to travel the Bhutan’s capital city Thimphu. Also, as the city is located within a close proximity to Bagdogra Airport and some of the nearest railway stations to Bhutan, you can find hassle-free options to visit Thimphu from this city.

Also, owing to the well-sorted roadway network, you can also plan out exciting roadway journeys from Siliguri to Thimphu. Let’s find out some of the best options that would help you reach the capital city of Bhutan without any obstacles or hindrances!

How to Reach Thimphu from Siliguri by Air

Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri is one of the few Indian airports that offer flights to Paro International Airport in Bhutan. From this airport, you can book flights offered by Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines on a daily basis to visit your favourite destination.

The airport is located around 12km, and takes less than an hour to reach from the city limits of Siliguri. As you fly from Bagdogra Airport, and land at Paro International Airport, you can either take the Bhutanese buses or hire a private can to reach Thimphu from Paro.

How to Reach Thimphu from Siliguri by Train

Unfortunately, Bhutan doesn’t have any railway network with any of the foreign destinations. Thus, if you are thinking about how to reach Thimphu from Siliguri, you have to plan your train journey to some of the closest Indian railway stations to Bhutan. In this case, you can book your train tickets from Siliguri to either New Jalpaiguri, New Alipurduar, or Hasimara.

Upon arrival at any of these railway stations, you should embark on a road journey from these stations to Jaigaon town on the Indo-Bhutan border. From this town, you can make your entry to Bhutan, and travel further to reach Thimphu by road.

How to Reach Thimphu from Siliguri by Road

If you are planning for a road journey from Siliguri to Thimphu, you should follow the NH-17. An approximate drive of 153km (3-4 hours) along the NH 17 would take you to Jaigaon, which lies adjacent to Phuentsholing town in Bhutan.

After acquiring a Bhutanese Visa, you can make your Bhutan entry through Phuentsholing, and continue driving along the Thimphu-Phuentsholing Highway to reach Thimphu. This part of your road trip would cover 147km (4 hours).