Travelling from Russia to Bhutan

Russia and Bhutan may seem worlds apart in distance, but they both value heritage, nature, and soul-deep introspection. While Russia spans vast plains, glacial lakes, and vibrant cities steeped in culture and power, Bhutan offers a tranquil escape into soaring Himalayan peaks, ancient monasteries, and a way of life that prizes happiness over GDP. For Russian travellers seeking a meaningful getaway—one that calms the mind and lifts the spirit—Bhutan is a destination like no other.

This guide walks you through the essentials of travelling from Russia to Bhutan: how to get there, what documents you’ll need, what to pack, and of course, the must-visit sites that will leave you breathless—in the best way possible.

How to Get to Bhutan from Russia

There are no direct flights from Russia to Bhutan, but getting there is absolutely doable with one or two connections. Bhutan’s only international airport is located in Paro (PBH), and the country is reachable via Bhutan’s national carrier, Drukair.

Recommended Transit Routes for Russian Travellers:

Option 1: Via Bangkok

• Moscow → Bangkok (Aeroflot, Thai Airways)

• Bangkok → Paro (Drukair)

DRUKAIR FLIGHTS FROM BANGKOK TO BHUTAN

Flight schedules and fares are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to www.drukair.com.

Option 2: Via Delhi

• Moscow → Delhi (Aeroflot, Air India, Qatar Airways)

• Delhi → Paro (Drukair)

The most popular and convenient transit is via Bangkok. Drukair operates daily flights from Bangkok to Paro. Find out more details about travelling to Bhutan from Bangkok.

Tip: Bhutan’s Paro Airport is one of the most scenic in the world—try to grab a window seat on the left side for dramatic mountain views!

Bhutan Visa & Entry Requirements for Russians

Yes, Russian citizens require a visa to enter Bhutan—but you won’t need to go through a stressful application process. Your licensed Bhutanese tour operator will handle everything for you.

What you need:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Digital passport-sized photo

• Tour payment including:

  • Visa fee: USD 40

  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100 per person, per night

Once approved, you’ll receive a visa clearance letter. Present it at check-in and upon arrival in Paro, where your actual visa will be stamped.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Bhutan?

Bhutan’s climate changes with the altitude, but here’s a quick seasonal breakdown for the best time to visit Bhutan:

Spring (March–May): Flowers in bloom, clear skies—perfect for trekking and festivals.

Autumn (September–November): Cool temperatures, vibrant tshechu festivals, and great visibility.

Winter (December–February): Snowy mountain views, fewer tourists, lower prices.

Summer (June–August): Lush green valleys but occasional rain—great for photography.

For Russians escaping winter, autumn and spring offer the most balanced weather and best cultural experiences.

Must-Visit Places in Bhutan

1. Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
No visit to Bhutan is complete without hiking to this cliff-hugging marvel. It’s iconic, spiritual, and surprisingly achievable—even for casual hikers.

2. Thimphu Town
This is Bhutan’s capital, but don’t expect traffic lights or skyscrapers. It’s a charming city with artisan shops, monasteries, museums, and cafés.

3. Punakha Dzong
One of the most beautiful fortresses in Bhutan, set against the backdrop of rivers and purple jacaranda trees in spring.

4. Dochula Pass
At over 3,000 metres, this high mountain pass offers stunning panoramas of the Himalayas. It’s dotted with 108 stupas—a must-stop en route to Punakha.

5. Phobjikha Valley
For nature lovers, this quiet valley is paradise. In winter, you can spot endangered black-necked cranes here.

Check out the Top 40 Places to Visit and Things to Do in Bhutan.

Planning Your Trip from Russia to Bhutan

If you’re thinking about a trip to Bhutan, it’s a good idea to start planning a few months in advance—especially if you’re aiming to travel during the beautiful spring or autumn seasons. These are some of the best times to visit, offering mild weather and the chance to experience colourful festivals like Paro Tshechu and Thimphu Tshechu, where Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage is on full display.

Choosing the right Bhutan travel package from Singapore can really elevate your journey. Whether you're keen to explore the cultural gems of Thimphu and Paro or looking to immerse yourself in nature on treks like the Jomolhari Trek or Druk Path Trek, a customised private tour gives you the flexibility to travel on your own terms and focus on what interests you most.

While you no longer need to engage a tour agency to enter Bhutan, having a tour guide is still mandatory to visit monuments and dzongs in Bhutan. Engaging a trusted agency like Druk Asia makes the entire process seamless—we’ll handle your visa arrangements and design a personalised itinerary that fits your travel style, whether it’s culture, adventure, luxury, or a bit of everything.

We offer a variety of Bhutan tour options to suit every kind of traveller, and if you have something specific in mind (such as a surprise birthday celebration, honeymoon, special occasions), we’re more than happy to tailor your trip accordingly for a truly memorable experience.

Bhutan Tour Costs (and Why It’s Worth It)

Russian tourists are subject to a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per night. This fee aims to maintain the country's cultural and environmental integrity, preserving its unique beauty for generations to come.

By respecting Bhutan’s sustainability practice through the SDF fee, visitors actively contribute to the conservation of Bhutan's natural wonders. Children aged 5 and below are exempt from the SDF, while those aged 6 to 11 are required to pay USD 50 per night. It's important to note that the SDF does not cover accommodation, meals, transportation, or guide services.

Engaging a Bhutan Tour Operator

Booking a full tour to Bhutan is absolutely worth it—not just because it's the most convenient way to travel, but because it takes care of everything for you. From visa processing and hotel bookings to a personal guide, private transport, and all meals, it’s all included. You won’t need to stress over logistics—just focus on soaking up the views, the culture, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes Bhutan so special.

What’s included in a Bhutan tour package:

• All accommodation

• Licensed guide and driver

• Meals

• Private vehicle and transport

• Entrance fees

• Visa processing

• SDF

Typical cost:

USD 350–400 per person, per night (customisable based on hotel category)

Flight estimate (round trip):

• Moscow → Bangkok → Paro = ~USD 1,100–1,300

• Bangkok → Paro = ~USD965

Flight schedules and fares are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please get in touch with our Travel Specialist.

Pro tip: Booking through an experienced agency like Druk Asia ensures seamless planning and on-the-ground support.

What’s the Best Trip Duration?

For a well-rounded trip, aim for 7 to 10 days, covering Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and optionally Phobjikha or Bumthang.

If you can spare a week, a 7-day Bhutan itinerary allows you to venture beyond the capital, Thimphu, and Paro Valley to include the lush and scenic Punakha Valley. This gives you a deeper insight into Bhutan’s history and traditional way of life, with visits to impressive dzongs, riverside villages, and peaceful countryside.

For a truly immersive experience, a 10-day Bhutan journey is ideal. It opens up the possibility of heading into the more remote regions such as Gangtey or even Bumthang—the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. With more time, you can travel at a relaxed pace, soak in the culture, enjoy nature hikes, and experience local festivals or farm stays depending on the season.

Food & Travel Tips for Russian Travellers to Bhutan

Bhutanese food is spicy and hearty—think chilli-cheese stews, red rice, and savoury dumplings. The national dish, Ema Datshi, is a must-try.

Meat options: pork, beef, chicken.

Vegetarian-friendly: Bhutan has plenty of vegetarian options.

Russian traveller tip: Let your guide know if you prefer milder food—hotels and restaurants are happy to adjust.

Language & Communication

You’ll be glad to know that English is widely spoken, especially by guides and hotel staff. Your guide will be fluent, so there’s no language barrier. Dzongkha is the national language, and signs are often in both English and Dzongkha.

Money, Connectivity & Safety

• Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to Indian Rupee

• Cash or card? Cash is king. Bring USD or EUR for exchange—Russian rubles aren’t accepted

• Credit cards: Accepted in high-end hotels and selected souvenir shops

• ATMs: Available but may not work with all cards

• Mobile networks: Buy a local SIM card (TashiCell or B-Mobile) for better rates

• Crypto payments: Yes—Bhutan supports Binance Pay at selected shops!

Safety: Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world. Solo and female travellers will feel secure.

What to Pack

Bhutan’s terrain is mountainous, so layering is key. The capital Thimphu sits at 2,300 metres, while highland valleys like Bumthang can be chillier.

Essentials:

• Lightweight and warm layers

• Waterproof jacket

• Hiking shoes with good grip

• Modest clothes for temples (long sleeves, covered legs)

• Daypack, water bottle, sunblock

Tip: If visiting in winter (Dec–Feb), pack gloves and a hat—it gets chilly in the mornings!

Check out the full Bhutan packing checklist.

Travelling to Bhutan from Russia isn’t just about visiting another country—it’s about stepping into a slower, kinder, more spiritual world. Whether you're hiking up to Tiger’s Nest, sipping tea by the Mo Chhu River, or meditating in a quiet monastery, Bhutan will stay with you long after your return.

So, if you’re ready to trade Moscow’s fast pace for Bhutan’s mountain stillness, it’s time to start planning. Let the Land of the Thunder Dragon show you what happiness really means.