How To Reach Wangdue Dzong

Traveling to Wangdue Dzong, Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan

Wangdue Dzong is an important historical district in central Bhutan. There are several ways to reach Wangdue Dzong:

By Air

The closest airport to Wangdue Phodrang is Paro International Airport (PBH). Flights to Paro operate from several countries including India, Thailand, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Upon arriving at Paro, one has to travel overland to reach Wangdue Phodrang.

Overland from Paro

After your arrival at Paro International Airport, you can choose the following means to reach Wangdue Phodrang:

• Private Taxi: Private taxis are available for hire at the airport or Paro town. The distance between Paro and Wangdue Phodrang is about 125 kilometers, and it usually takes around 4 hours to reach by taxi.
• Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient option for those who prefer to drive themselves. Various car rental agencies operate in Paro. International driver's licenses are often required.
• Bus Service: There are bus services from Paro to Thimphu and from Thimphu to Wangdue Phodrang. The bus journey from Paro to Thimphu takes about 1 hour, and from Thimphu to Wangdue Phodrang, it takes another 2 to 3 hours.

Overland from Thimphu

If you are already in Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, reaching Wangdue Dzong is relatively straightforward:

• Private Taxi: This is the quickest option. The journey can take approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on road conditions.
• Bus: There are regular bus services between Thimphu and Wangdue Phodrang. The central bus station in Thimphu is the starting point for these buses.
• Hiring a Guide: For a smoother travel experience, consider hiring a local guide or tour operator in Thimphu. They can arrange transportation and provide valuable insights during your journey.

Tour Operators

To facilitate your journey, you may opt to use the services of Bhutanese tour operators. Tourism in Bhutan is highly regulated, and all international tourists (except for citizens of Bangladesh, India, and the Maldives) must travel with a registered Bhutanese tour operator or their international partners.

Note

Visa Requirements: Don’t forget to check the visa requirements before your trip. Most tourists require a visa to enter Bhutan, which must be arranged by your tour operator.

Travel Permits: Additionally, a travel permit is required to travel between different districts within Bhutangle>.