Hidden among the high ridges of eastern Bhutan, Yonphulla Airport is one of the kingdom’s most scenic and remote aviation gateways. Located near the historic town of Trashigang, this small domestic airport opens the door to one of Bhutan’s least explored regions — a land of dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient temples, and living traditions that remain deeply rooted in everyday life.
For travellers who wish to journey beyond the well-known western valleys of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, Yonphulla offers access to a quieter and more authentic side of Bhutan.
Perched high in the mountains of Trashigang District, Yonphulla Airport (IATA: YON) sits at an elevation of approximately 2,560 metres (8,405 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest airports in Bhutan.
The airport has a single asphalt runway measuring about 1,266 metres in length, designed to accommodate short-takeoff aircraft that can safely operate within Bhutan’s mountainous terrain.
Though modest in size, Yonphulla plays a vital role in connecting eastern Bhutan with the rest of the country. Flights operated by Drukair and other domestic carriers link Yonphulla with Paro and Bumthang, allowing travellers to reach the eastern districts in a fraction of the time compared to long mountain road journeys.
Landing at Yonphulla is a memorable experience. As the aircraft descends through layers of mist and forested ridges, travellers are greeted with sweeping views of remote Himalayan valleys and quiet highland villages.
Yonphulla Airport traces its origins back to the 1960s, when it was first built by India’s Border Roads Organisation as a simple airstrip serving Bhutan’s remote eastern region.
For many years it remained a basic landing strip used occasionally for government or military purposes.
In 2013, the airport temporarily closed for major upgrades and safety improvements. After extensive reconstruction of the runway and facilities, Yonphulla officially reopened in October 2017, significantly improving connectivity for eastern Bhutan.
Today, Yonphulla stands as a strategic domestic aviation hub, supporting regional tourism, trade and local mobility.
Yonphulla Airport is intentionally small and efficient, reflecting Bhutan’s philosophy of low-impact infrastructure that blends with the natural landscape.
Facilities at the airport include:
Due to its mountainous location, flights operate primarily during daylight hours and in favourable weather conditions, ensuring safe navigation through the surrounding terrain.
The simplicity of Yonphulla Airport is part of its charm — travellers quickly notice the calm atmosphere, the fresh mountain air and the striking views surrounding the runway.
Yonphulla Airport serves Trashigang, the largest town in eastern Bhutan and an important cultural and administrative centre.
Historically, Trashigang was a key trading hub linking Bhutan with Tibet and Assam. Merchants once travelled along ancient mountain routes carrying goods such as silk, salt and spices across the Himalayas.
Today, the town remains a lively crossroads of eastern Bhutan, where traditional markets, monasteries and hillside villages coexist with modern schools and institutions.
One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is Trashigang Dzong, a fortress-monastery built in 1659 to defend the region from Tibetan invasions.
Perched dramatically above the Dangme Chhu river valley, the dzong continues to serve as the administrative and religious centre of the district.
Eastern Bhutan offers a rich tapestry of heritage sites rarely visited by international travellers.
A majestic fortress overlooking the valley, known for its strategic hilltop location and important role in Bhutan’s history.
A beautifully designed temple complex housing intricate statues and sacred imagery representing Guru Rinpoche’s celestial paradise.
Located within Trashigang District, this protected area is home to pristine forests, rare wildlife and the legendary Migoi, a mythical yeti-like creature believed by locals to inhabit the mountains.
The sanctuary also protects unique communities such as the Brokpa people, semi-nomadic highlanders known for their distinctive clothing and yak-herding traditions.
Discover the magic of Eastern Bhutan through a 15-day East to West Tour of Bhutan.
Are you dreaming of a journey that gently unravels the tapestry of Bhutan’s living heritage over ten soul-enriching days? Our 10‑Day Discover Bhutan Cultural Tour is a carefully...
Read moreThis luxury Bhutan itinerary is a preliminary draft, thoughtfully crafted to inspire your journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon. However, every traveller is unique—and so...
Read moreHave you ever longed to step into a land where tradition reigns supreme, the air is steeped in prayer flags and ancient melodies, and every mountain pass feels like walking through...
Read more