Bagdogra is one of the closest international gateways to Bhutan and a popular departure point for travellers from eastern India. Located in the Indian state of West Bengal, Bagdogra Airport serves the foothills of the Himalayas and provides convenient access to Bhutan, Sikkim, Darjeeling and the Dooars.
For travellers planning a Bhutan holiday, Bagdogra offers an excellent alternative to larger international airports. With regular Drukair flights to Paro and easy road access from nearby cities, it has become a preferred gateway for visitors from India and neighbouring countries.
Situated just a few hours' drive from the Bhutan border, Bagdogra is one of the most convenient airports for travellers heading to Bhutan.
Travellers choose Bagdogra because of its:
Whether you're beginning your journey in eastern India or connecting from elsewhere, Bagdogra offers a smooth gateway to the Himalayas.
Drukair operates scheduled services between Bagdogra Airport (IXB) and Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan's only international airport.
The short flight provides spectacular views of the Himalayan foothills before the aircraft enters Bhutan and makes its famous approach into Paro Valley.
Many travellers choose to combine a visit to Darjeeling or Sikkim with Bhutan, making Bagdogra one of the most popular gateways for multi-destination Himalayan holidays.
Drukair currently operates the following services between Bagdogra and Bhutan.
| Flight Number | Route | Operating Days |
| KB501 | Bagdogra (IXB) – Paro (PBH) | Selected days of the week |
| KB500 | Paro (PBH) – Bagdogra (IXB) | Selected days of the week |
Flight schedules may vary depending on the season. Please check the latest timetable before travelling.
A typical Bagdogra to Bhutan flight operates as follows:
Route: Bagdogra → Paro
Flight duration: approximately 50 minutes
Morning departures are typically available depending on the operating schedule.
Return flights depart Paro and arrive back in Bagdogra on the same day.
Although relatively short, the flight from Bagdogra to Bhutan offers beautiful views of the eastern Himalayas.
As the aircraft climbs above the plains of northern West Bengal, the landscape quickly transforms into forested hills, deep valleys and snow-capped mountains.
The final approach into Paro International Airport is one of the highlights of the journey, with the aircraft carefully navigating through the mountain valleys before landing in Bhutan.
For the best views, window seats are highly recommended.
Passengers travelling with Drukair should check in at:
Bagdogra Airport (IXB)
West Bengal, India
We recommend arriving at least three hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop and security procedures.
Airport check-in counters generally open three hours before departure and close one hour before departure.
Before travelling from Bagdogra to Bhutan, make sure you have:
Travellers are also encouraged to carry their passport as their primary form of identification throughout their journey.
Drukair's standard baggage allowance varies depending on your cabin class.
Economy Class
Business Class
If your luggage exceeds the permitted allowance, excess baggage charges will apply and are subject to available aircraft capacity.
Passengers travelling with sporting equipment, musical instruments, oversized items or other special luggage are advised to contact Drukair before departure so that the necessary arrangements can be made in advance.
Many visitors use Bagdogra as the starting point for exploring some of eastern India's most famous hill destinations before travelling to Bhutan.
Popular places nearby include:
These destinations can easily be combined with a Bhutan holiday, creating a memorable Himalayan itinerary.
Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is one of eastern India's most important airports, serving travellers visiting West Bengal, Sikkim and Bhutan.
Located approximately 16 kilometres from Siliguri, the airport provides convenient domestic connections from major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata.
Its location makes it one of the closest airports to Bhutan.
Passengers can enjoy a range of facilities, including:
Drukair provides one of the quickest and most convenient ways to travel between eastern India and Bhutan.
Passengers enjoy:
Whether you're visiting Bhutan for culture, trekking, photography or a family holiday, Drukair offers a seamless journey into the Himalayas.
The flight from Bagdogra to Paro takes approximately 50 minutes.
Yes. Drukair operates scheduled direct flights between Bagdogra and Paro.
Drukair operates from Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, India.
All international flights arrive at Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan's only international airport.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure.
Yes. Bagdogra is one of the closest airports to Bhutan and is particularly convenient for travellers combining Bhutan with Darjeeling, Sikkim or other destinations in eastern India.
Absolutely. Many travellers spend several days in Darjeeling or Sikkim before continuing to Bhutan, creating a memorable Himalayan holiday.
Economy Class passengers receive 30 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage, while Business Class passengers receive 40 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage.
Yes. Travellers may book Drukair flights only or arrange a complete Bhutan holiday through one of Drukair's authorised representatives.
Yes. The flight offers wonderful views of the Himalayan foothills before the spectacular approach into Paro Valley.
Flying from Bagdogra is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach Bhutan from eastern India. Whether you're travelling directly from Bagdogra or combining your journey with Darjeeling, Kalimpong or Sikkim, Drukair offers a comfortable gateway to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
If you're looking for a seamless Bhutan holiday, our authorised representatives such as Druk Asia can assist with your complete travel arrangements, including Drukair flights, Bhutan visa applications, tour packages, accommodation and personalised itineraries.
Flying from Bagdogra to Bhutan? Read Druk Asia’s Bhutan travel tips before you book your trip to Bhutan.
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