Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is one of the most unique and meaningful travel destinations in the world. With its untouched Himalayan landscapes, living Buddhist culture, and strong focus on sustainability, Bhutan offers an experience unlike any other. For Chinese visitors, traveling from Beijing to Bhutan is straightforward when planned correctly. This complete guide explains how to travel from China to Bhutan, visa requirements, flights, tour bookings, and useful travel tips.
1. Can Chinese Citizens Travel to Bhutan?
Yes, Chinese citizens can travel to Bhutan, but independent travel is not permitted. Bhutan follows a regulated tourism policy, which means:
- All trips must be pre-arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator
- A Bhutan tourist visa must be approved before travel
- A confirmed itinerary, hotel bookings, guide, transport, and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) are mandatory
Licensed Bhutan tour operators, such as local Bhutanese companies, handle the entire process on your behalf. Contact OMSHA Travel.
2. How to Travel from Beijing to Bhutan
✈️ Flights from Beijing to Bhutan
There are no direct flights from Beijing to Paro (Bhutan). However, Bhutan is well connected via major Asian transit cities.
Common routes from Beijing include:
- Beijing → Kathmandu → Paro
- Beijing → Bangkok → Paro
- Beijing → Delhi / Kolkata → Paro
- Beijing → Hong Kong → Paro (seasonal or charter flights)
Paro International Airport is Bhutan’s only international airport and is known for its scenic Himalayan approach.
💡 Your Bhutan tour operator will assist with flight booking or coordinate with partner airlines.
Airlines Flying to Bhutan (Paro International Airport)
Bhutan has one international airport — Paro International Airport (PBH) — and a limited number of airlines operate flights into this scenic mountain hub.
Main Airlines Servicing Bhutan
- Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
- Bhutan’s national flag carrier
- Connects Paro with several Asian cities such as:
- Kathmandu, Nepal
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Singapore, Singapore
- New Delhi & Mumbai, India
- Kolkata & Gaya, India
- Guwahati, India
- Dhaka, Bangladesh
Flights vary by season and can be direct or with technical stops on some routes.
- Bhutan Airlines
- Private Bhutanese carrier
- Serves many of the same international routes as Druk Air, including Bangkok, Kathmandu, Delhi, and Kolkata.
- No direct flights from China to Paro currently exist, so Chinese travelers typically connect via cities such as Bangkok, Kathmandu, New Delhi, or Singapore.
📌 Tip: Always check flight schedules with your Bhutan tour operator, as schedules change seasonally and can be affected by weather conditions.
3. Bhutan Visa Requirements for Chinese Visitors
Bhutan Tourist Visa for Chinese Nationals
Chinese passport holders require a Bhutan visa, which must be arranged before arrival.
Visa process includes:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Confirmed travel dates
- Pre-booked tour itinerary
- Payment of Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Visa application handled by your Bhutan tour operator
Once approved, you will receive a visa clearance letter, which allows boarding the flight to Bhutan. The visa is stamped upon arrival at Paro Airport.
4. Booking a Bhutan Travel Package from China
🧭 Step-by-Step Booking Process
Step 1: Contact a Licensed Bhutan Tour Operator
Share your travel dates, number of travelers, interests (culture, nature, trekking, luxury, photography), and budget.
Step 2: Receive a Customized Itinerary & Cost
Your operator will design a day-by-day itinerary covering destinations such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, or Phobjikha.
Step 3: Confirm & Make Payment
Payment typically includes:
- Accommodation
- Licensed Bhutanese guide
- Private transport
- All meals
- Entry fees
- Visa fee
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Step 4: Visa Processing
The tour operator applies for your Bhutan visa and issues the visa clearance letter.
Step 5: Book Flights & Travel to Bhutan
With visa clearance, flights are confirmed and you are ready to travel.
Best Bhutan Tour Packages for Chinese Travelers
Here are popular tour options that combine experiences, comfort, and smooth logistics:
⭐ 1. Classic Bhutan Cultural Explorer – 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Best for: First-time visitors
- Includes:
- Paro arrival & transfer to Thimphu
- Thimphu city tour
- Punakha valley visit
- Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) hike
- Domestic transport, guide, meals & hotels
This tour gives a perfect snapshot of Bhutanese culture, history, and natural beauty.
🌄 2. Himalayan Heritage Tour – 8 Days / 7 Nights
- Best for: In-depth cultural exploration
- Includes:
- Paro, Thimphu, Punakha
- Central Bhutan region (Bumthang) — temples, valleys, tiny towns
- Hot springs, scenic drives, local cuisine
This extended itinerary is perfect if you want more off-the-beaten-path experiences.
✨ 3. Luxury Bhutan Experience Package
- Best for: Couples and luxury travelers
- Includes:
- 5★ or boutique resort stays (e.g., in Paro, Punakha or Thimphu)
- Private guide and luxury transport
- Fine dining & cultural performances
- Short hikes, wellness and spa services
This package is ideal for travelers desiring comfort alongside authentic Bhutan culture.
📦 Example Scheduled Tour (with Flights)
Many travel companies offer pre-scheduled Bhutan tours with flights from major Asian hubs (e.g., Hong Kong to Paro package) — including return Bhutan Airlines flights, hotels, guides, and tours — typically for 6 Days / 5 Nights during peak travel dates.
5. Best Time for Chinese Visitors to Visit Bhutan
Bhutan is a year-round destination, but the most popular seasons are:
- Spring (March–May): Flowers, clear skies, festivals
- Autumn (September–November): Best weather, major festivals, mountain views
- Winter (December–February): Fewer tourists, clear views, colder nights
- Summer (June–August): Green landscapes, fewer crowds, occasional rain
Festival dates are especially attractive for cultural travelers.
6. Language, Food & Cultural Tips
- Language: English is widely spoken; Chinese-speaking guides can be arranged in advance
- Food: Bhutanese, Indian, continental, and Chinese-style meals are available in major towns
- Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN); Indian Rupees accepted; cards usable in hotels
- Culture: Dress modestly, respect monasteries, and follow guide instructions at religious sites
7. Why Travel with a Bhutanese Local Operator?
Booking with a Bhutan-based licensed tour operator ensures:
- Official visa approval
- Authentic cultural experiences
- Local expertise and safety
- Direct communication and transparent pricing
- Support for local communities
Local operators also help tailor trips for families, seniors, photographers, birdwatchers, and luxury travelers.
8. Final Travel Tips for Chinese Visitors
- Book your Bhutan trip at least 3–4 months in advance
- Ensure passport validity before applying
- English is common with guides; Chinese-speaking guides can also be arranged with advance notice.
- Plan flights with buffer time around your Bhutan flight — weather can affect Paro flights more than other cities.
- Share dietary preferences early
- Carry some cash for small purchases
- Travel with an open mind—Bhutan is about experience, not luxury alone
Conclusion
Traveling from Beijing to Bhutan is a rewarding journey into one of the world’s most peaceful and culturally rich countries. With proper planning, a reliable Bhutan tour operator, and a well-designed itinerary, Chinese visitors can enjoy a smooth, meaningful, and unforgettable Bhutan experience.
If you are planning your Bhutan journey from China, working with a licensed Bhutanese travel company is the safest and most efficient way to make your dream trip come true. Contact OMSHA Travel.
Welcome to Bhutan — where happiness is a way of life.
