VOLO
Overview
Bhutan is one of the world's most exclusive destinations, where ancient Buddhist monasteries cling to sheer cliff faces and pristine valleys remain untouched by mass tourism. The kingdom's policy of high-value, low-volume tourism ensures an intimate, transformative experience amid Himalayan grandeur.
Gallery
Getting There
Paro International Airport is one of the world's most challenging approaches, nestled in a deep valley. Only specially certified pilots may land here. Private charter flights operate from Delhi, Bangkok, and Kathmandu.
VQPR
Paro International Airport
Primary
From Delhi
2.5h
From Bangkok
4h
From Kathmandu
1h
From Singapore
5.5h
Why Fly Private
Only a handful of airlines are certified to fly the challenging approach into Paro, severely limiting commercial options. Flights frequently cancel due to weather, stranding travelers for days. Private charter provides dedicated aircraft with certified mountain pilots and the flexibility to wait for optimal weather windows. For a destination this exclusive, arriving by private charter matches the transformative spirit of the journey.
Private Jet Experience
The approach into Paro is one of aviation's great spectacles — your pilot navigates between towering Himalayan peaks before banking sharply into the valley. On touchdown, the pine-scented mountain air fills the cabin. Bhutanese officials in traditional gho attire greet you with a warm welcome and a ceremonial white scarf, while your guide from Amankora or Six Senses stands ready for the transfer to your lodge.
Luxury Experiences
- Private hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery
- Bhutanese archery experience with local champions
- Hot stone bath and traditional healing rituals
- Exclusive festival viewing with cultural guide
- Helicopter tour over Himalayan peaks and glacial lakes
Where to Stay
Amankora
Six Senses Bhutan
COMO Uma Paro
Le Meridien Thimphu
Practical Information
Currency
Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), Indian Rupee also accepted
Language
Dzongkha, English widely spoken in tourism
Timezone
BTT (UTC+6)
Visa
All international visitors (except Indian nationals) must obtain a visa in advance through a licensed tour operator. VOLO assists with the application process.
Tipping
Tipping guides and drivers is customary — $10–$20 per day for guides, $5–$10 for drivers.
Emergency
112
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a private jet land in Bhutan?
Paro International Airport (VQPR) accommodates jets up to midsize category, though the approach requires specially certified pilots due to the mountainous terrain. Charter operators must obtain prior landing permits from Bhutan's Civil Aviation Authority, which VOLO coordinates on your behalf.
What is the Bhutan daily fee for tourists?
Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee of $200 per person per day for international visitors (as of 2024). This fee supports conservation and community development. It is separate from your accommodation, guide services, and charter costs, all of which VOLO can arrange as a comprehensive package.
How long is the flight to Bhutan from Delhi?
A private jet from Delhi to Paro takes approximately 2.5 hours. From Bangkok it is around 4 hours, and from Kathmandu just 1 hour. Morning departures are strongly recommended as afternoon mountain weather can force diversions.
Best Time to Visit
March to May and September to November for clear Himalayan views and pleasant temperatures.
Climate
Alpine and subtropical zones depending on altitude. Spring and autumn offer clear skies with mild daytime temperatures in the valleys.
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tip
Time your visit to coincide with a tshechu festival for extraordinary masked dances. The Gangtey Valley offers rare black-necked crane sightings in winter.
Recommended Aircraft
For travel to Bhutan, we recommend the following Midsize Jet aircraft:
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