If Bhutan is the “last Shangri-La,” its valleys are the jewels that make the kingdom shine. But here’s the question every traveler asks after booking their flights: how do you actually get around once you land? Bhutan’s dramatic landscape—soaring mountains, deep valleys, and winding roads—makes the journey as memorable as the destination. Here’s a guide to help you plan your travel between valleys efficiently in 2025.
For those short on time or simply wanting to avoid long drives, domestic flights are the quickest way to hop between regions. Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate small aircraft connecting Paro to Bumthang and sometimes Yonphula in the east.
Good to know: Flights depend on weather, so keep a flexible schedule. Morning flights are usually smoother when winds are gentler.
Traveler tip: Book early—seats are limited and popular during festival seasons.
The most common way to explore is with a private driver and car, arranged through licensed tour operators. Roads twist and climb through breathtaking mountain passes like Dochula, where 108 chortens (stupas) stand sentinel.
You’ll have the freedom to stop for roadside prayer flag views or a hot cup of milk tea in a village café.
Bhutanese drivers are seasoned at navigating narrow mountain roads—trust me, it’s worth letting a local take the wheel.
While less common, self-drive car rentals are emerging in 2025, particularly for long-term visitors with an international driving permit.
Reality check: Roads can be challenging—steep curves, sudden landslides during monsoon, and occasional roadwork. If you’re an experienced mountain driver and crave independence, it’s possible, but not for the faint-hearted.
Bhutan’s public buses (operated by the Bhutan Post and private companies) connect most major towns—Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Phuentsholing, and eastern districts.
They’re the most economical option and a great way to mingle with locals.
Comfort is basic, and journeys can be long, so bring snacks and a good travel playlist.
Not exactly “transport,” but worth mentioning—many traditional routes between valleys were once walked. For those with time and spirit for adventure, multiday treks like the Druk Path Trek or the Bumthang Cultural Trek give you a taste of Bhutan’s ancient pathways.
Timing matters: Winter roads are clear but cold; monsoon (June–August) can bring landslides.
Permits & SDF: If you’re traveling beyond the standard western circuit, check if you need special permits and factor in the Sustainable Development Fee.
Blend transport options: A domestic flight into Bumthang combined with a scenic road trip back can give you the best of both worlds.
Like prayer flags fluttering across high passes, every journey here carries a sense of blessing. Whether you’re gliding above the mountains on a short flight or winding through pine-scented roads with a local driver, getting around Bhutan is part of the adventure itself.
