How To Reach Royal Botanical Garden

Reaching Royal Botanical Garden, Thimphu, Bhutan

Traveling to the Royal Botanical Garden in Thimphu, Bhutan requires some careful planning as Bhutan is a country with restricted entry policies. Here’s what you need to know to organize your visit:

By Air

Paro International Airport (PBH) is the main gateway to Bhutan for international tourists. It is well connected with flights from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Dhaka, and several other cities. After arriving at Paro airport, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a pre-booked car through your travel agent to reach Thimphu. The drive takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, covering a distance of around 48 kilometers.

By Road

Once in Thimphu, you can drive to the Royal Botanical Garden, which is located in Serbithang, approximately 15 km away from the city center. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes. Car rentals and taxis are readily available throughout Thimphu for such short trips.

Guided Tours

Many visitors opt for guided tours arranged by travel companies, which include transportation as part of the package. This is a convenient option as your local guide will manage the logistics, and it often includes informative commentary about the destination.

Visa and Entry Requirements

All visitors to Bhutan, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, must obtain a visa before arriving in the country. Visitors must book their trip through a Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners. The tour operator will take care of all arrangements, including the visa processing, which is conditional upon purchasing an all-inclusive package that covers a minimum daily tariff set by the Bhutanese government.

Important Considerations

• Ensure you have a valid passport and obtain a Bhutanese visa prior to departure.
• Consider the road conditions and local traffic rules if you're self-driving.
• Confirm transportation arrangements in advance, either with your hotel or through a travel agency.
• Check the weather forecast and road conditions on the day of your visit, especially during monsoon season.
• Keep in mind the altitude and carry any necessary medications if prone to altitude sickness.

Please note that the details provided here may change, and it's important to consult the most recent travel advisories and official resources before traveling.