Bhutan—the serene Himalayan kingdom known for its dramatic landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and a focus on Gross National Happiness—has become a bucket-list destination for many Indian travelers. If you’re planning a Bhutanese escape from cities like Mumbai or Kolkata and exploring Bhutan tour packages, one of the most frequently asked questions is: “Is a passport required for Bhutan?” Let's dive into that first before exploring ideal Indian destinations to visit in July and August.

Do We Need a Passport for Bhutan?

For Indian Citizens: No Passport Required, But…

Indian citizens do not need a passport or a visa to enter Bhutan. However, certain documents are mandatory for entry. You can travel to Bhutan with either of the following:

• Valid Indian Passport (with at least 6 months of validity), or
  
  

• Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India

Either document is acceptable for entry via air or land. Children under 18 traveling without a passport must carry a birth certificate along with a valid school ID.

If you're planning to fly into Bhutan via Paro International Airport, having a passport simplifies the check-in and immigration process.

 Tip: Although a passport isn't strictly necessary, it’s highly recommended to carry one if you have it—it makes the process smoother, especially if you're using Bhutan travel packages that include air travel.

Entry Permit for Indian Citizens

Indian travelers need to obtain an Entry Permit on arrival:

• If entering via Phuentsholing (land border), you can get it at the Immigration Office.
  
  

• If arriving at Paro Airport, the Entry Permit is issued there.
  
  

This Entry Permit allows access to Thimphu and Paro. For visiting other regions like Punakha, Bumthang, or Haa Valley, a Special Area Permit is required, which you can get from the Immigration Office in Thimphu.

How to Go to Bhutan from India

There are two primary ways Indian tourists travel to Bhutan:

1. By Air

Bhutan’s only international airport is in Paro. The two airlines that operate flights between India and Bhutan are:

• Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
  
  

• Bhutan Airlines
  
  

Major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Mumbai offer connecting or direct flights to Paro.

If you're booking a Bhutan package from Mumbai, you’ll likely fly to Delhi or Kolkata first and then connect to Paro.

2. By Road (Land Route via Phuentsholing)

This is the most popular route for Indian travelers, especially for those using Bhutan tour packages from Kolkata. Here's how you do it:

• Enter Bhutan at the Phuentsholing border, adjacent to Jaigaon in West Bengal.
  
  

• From Phuentsholing, it’s a 6-hour scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.
  
  

Tip: If you’re planning a 7 days Bhutan tour package, the road route offers flexibility and the chance to see smaller towns and authentic Bhutanese countryside.

Popular Bhutan Packages from India

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a cultural experience, or a nature-filled retreat, there are Bhutan packages customized to suit every kind of traveler:

1. Bhutan Packages from Mumbai

• Typically includes round-trip airfare to Paro (via Kolkata or Delhi)
  
  

• 6–8 nights in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha
  
  

• Guided monastery tours, scenic hikes, and local cuisine experiences
  
  

2. Bhutan Tour Package from Kolkata

• Ideal for travelers preferring the land route via Jaigaon
  
  

• Shorter and more budget-friendly
  
  

• Often includes 4–5 nights in Paro and Thimphu
  
  

3. Bhutan Honeymoon Package

• Luxury hotels in Paro and Thimphu
  
  

• Spa treatments, candlelight dinners, and private sightseeing
  
  

• Add-ons like hot stone baths and romantic hikes to Tiger's Nest Monastery
  
  

4. 7 Days Bhutan Tour Package

• Day 1: Arrival in Phuentsholing/Paro
  
  

• Day 2–3: Explore Paro (including Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
  
  

• Day 4–5: Thimphu sightseeing
  
  

• Day 6: Visit Punakha or Haa Valley
  
  

• Day 7: Return/Departure
  
  

🏔️ Pro Tip: Most Bhutan travel packages include permits, guides, hotel stays, and intercity travel—making it hassle-free for Indian travelers.

Best Places to Travel in July in India

July marks the beginning of the monsoon season, transforming much of India into a lush green paradise. While some places become difficult to access due to heavy rains, many regions truly come alive during this time.

Here are the top places to travel in July in India:

1. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

• Why go: July offers clear blue skies and accessible roads
  
  

• Must-see: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La
  
  

• Activities: Biking, trekking, and monastery visits
  
  

2. Coorg, Karnataka

• Nickname: Scotland of India
  
  

• Why go: Mist-covered hills, waterfalls, and coffee estates
  
  

• Best for: Nature lovers and monsoon chasers
  
  

3. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
  
  

• Open only from June to October
  
  

• Highlights: Meadows covered with rare Himalayan blooms
  
  

4. Munnar, Kerala

• Tea plantations, waterfalls, and cool breezes
  
  

• Ideal for: Couples, solo travelers, and photographers
  
  

5. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

• Offbeat and serene
  
  

• Top attractions: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Bumla Pass

Places to Travel in August in India

August is perfect for those who love the monsoon magic. The landscapes are at their greenest, the rivers are full, and waterfalls are spectacular.

Here are the top destinations to explore in August:

1. Goa (Off-season beach retreat)

• Pros: Fewer crowds, discounted stays, lush greenery
  
  

• Activities: Monsoon treks, spice plantation visits, and backwater cruises
  
  

2. Cherrapunji & Shillong, Meghalaya

• One of the wettest places on Earth
  
  

• Unique sights: Living root bridges, Nohkalikai Falls, and caves
  
  

3. Wayanad, Kerala

• Dense forests, tribal villages, and misty mountains
  
  

• Top picks: Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Soochipara Falls
  
  

4. Lonavala & Matheran, Maharashtra

• Easily accessible from Mumbai and Pune
  
  

• Highlights: Waterfalls, lush green valleys, and monsoon trekking
  
  

5. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

• Romantic, cool, and peaceful
  
  

• Best for: Couples and families seeking solitude and scenic beauty
  
  

☔ Monsoon Travel Tip: Always carry rain gear, waterproof shoes, and plan buffer time for travel delays due to heavy rain.

Conclusion

Whether you're planning a peaceful Bhutan escape or seeking monsoon magic in India, July and August offer a wide spectrum of travel opportunities. Bhutan, with its serene atmosphere, royal architecture, and verdant landscapes, is surprisingly accessible for Indian tourists—no passport or visa is required, just your voter ID or passport and a sense of adventure.

And if Bhutan isn’t your immediate choice, you still have a plethora of destinations in India that are perfect for monsoon travel. From misty mountains in the South to rain-fed rivers and Himalayan meadows in the North, July and August present some of the most unique and budget-friendly travel experiences.

For curated Bhutan tour packages, customized monsoon getaways, and updated travel tips, be sure to check out Voyagers Beat your trusted partner in discovering the best of India and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a passport required for Bhutan for Indian citizens?

No, Indian citizens can enter Bhutan with a passport or voter ID card.

2. Can I visit Bhutan without a tour package?

Yes, but booking Bhutan travel packages simplifies permits, transportation, and accommodation.

3. What’s the best time to visit Bhutan?

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer ideal weather. July–August is off-season due to rains but sees fewer crowds.

4. Which are the best Bhutan honeymoon packages?

Packages focusing on Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha with luxury stays and scenic tours are perfect for honeymooners.