Transportation in Bhutan

# Transportation in Bhutan: What You Need to Know Bhutan's transportation system is unique and tightly regulated. The country has no railways, and domestic flights are limited, making road transport the primary way to get around. Private vehicles, hired cars with drivers, and tourist buses are the main options for visitors. Public buses do exist for locals, but tourists typically rely on pre-arranged transportation through licensed tour operators, as independent travel requires booking through authorized agencies under Bhutan's tourism policy. **For first-time visitors**, understanding that you cannot simply rent a car and drive yourself is crucial—foreign visitors must travel with a licensed guide and pre-arranged transportation. Most tourists move between destinations like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha via private vehicles included in their tour packages. Roads are mountainous and winding, so journey times are longer than distances might suggest. **From Paro International Airport** (Bhutan's only international airport), your tour operator will arrange pickup as part of your package. The drive to Thimphu, the capital, takes approximately 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Independent taxi services are available at the airport, but given Bhutan's tourism requirements, most visitors will have pre-arranged transportation waiting. For current transport arrangements and booking options, check with licensed Bhutanese tour operators who can provide up-to-date details on available services.

Book domestic flights with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines well in advance as seats are limited and routes are weather-dependent

Hire a licensed guide and driver through a registered tour operator, as independent travel requires special arrangements in Bhutan

Roads are mountainous with sharp curves - factor in longer travel times than distances suggest and plan for motion sickness

Paro International Airport has limited daily flights due to challenging mountain approach - confirm departure times as schedules can change