Thrissur to Bhutan Travel Options

Planning a family trip from Thrissur to Bhutan? Here’s a complete guide on how to reach Bhutan from Thrissur by Air, Train, or Road. Compare the best and most economical options below for a smooth and memorable journey.

✈️ By Air (Fastest & Most Comfortable Option)

The nearest airport to Thrissur is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 1 hour’s drive away. You can fly from Cochin to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal — the nearest airport to Bhutan.

From Bagdogra, you can:

• Take a connecting Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines flight to Paro (Bhutan’s only international airport).
• Or enjoy a scenic 5–6 hour drive from Bagdogra to the Bhutan border town Phuentsholing.

Approx Airfare (per person): ₹6,700 – ₹13,000 (Cochin → Bagdogra) + ₹13,000 – ₹35,000 (Bagdogra → Paro, if available)
Travel Time: 6 to 8 hours total (depending on flight connections)
Recommended for: Families, senior citizens, and short vacations.

🚆 By Train (Budget-Friendly Option)

For a more economical option, travel by train from Thrissur (TCR) to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) — the main railway station near Bhutan.

Step 1: Take a long-distance train such as Vivek SF Express or Kanyakumari–Dibrugarh Express from Thrissur to NJP. (Approx travel time: 50–55 hours)
Step 2: Board a regional train from NJP to Hasimara (2.5–3.5 hrs).
Step 3: Take a taxi from Hasimara to Jaigaon / Phuentsholing — the Bhutan border town (approx 20–40 mins).

Estimated Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 (Sleeper Class), ₹3,500 – ₹5,500 (3AC)
Total Duration: Around 2.5 – 3 days (including transfers)
Recommended for: Budget travelers and adventure enthusiasts.

🚗 By Road (Scenic Route Option)

The distance between Thrissur and Bhutan is around 2,600–2,800 km. Driving directly would take more than 40 hours, making it impractical for most families.

A better option is to fly or take a train to Bagdogra or Siliguri, then enjoy a scenic 5–6 hour road trip to Phuentsholing — the gateway to Bhutan.
Taxi Fare (Bagdogra → Phuentsholing): ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 (per cab, one-way)
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours
Recommended for: Nature lovers and those who enjoy long drives.

🛂 Entry Requirements for Indian Citizens

Indian travelers do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. You can get a travel permit on arrival at Phuentsholing or Paro Airport.

Documents Required: Valid Passport or Voter ID, and 2 passport-sized photos. Children must carry a birth certificate.

💡 Recommended Family Route

• Fly from Cochin → Bagdogra (fastest domestic route)
• Take a comfortable taxi to Phuentsholing (5–6 hours)
• Continue to Paro, Thimphu, or Punakha for sightseeing

This plan offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and scenic beauty — ideal for families with kids or elderly travelers.