In case you are planning to visit Bhutan, there is no doubt that you are going to begin your tour from the Bagdogra airport as this airport is the closest one to Bhutan. A Bagdogra to Phuentsholing taxi is certainly the best choice for you to reach Jaigaon, the place located near the Bhutan border from where you can access Phuentsholing of Bhutan. This article is going to provide you with all the information concerning this trip.
Why Choose a Taxi from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing?
Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport to Bhutan on the Indian side, which makes it the best choice of transport for almost all tourists arriving in India from various cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore. As there is no direct transport facility right up till the border crossing point, the best choice for tourists would be to take the Bagdogra to Phuentsholing taxi. There are many advantages of a private taxi service that include:
- Convenient door-to-door pick up from the airport
- Flexible timing according to your flight timings
- Comfortable seating with enough space for luggage
- Flexibility to make short halts along the way if you wish to
- Driver who is well aware about the border crossing formalities
For those traveling further to destinations like Thimphu, Paro, or Punakha, it would be better to start off with a comfortable taxi journey to Jaigaon.
Route: Bagdogra to Phuentsholing
Traveling via road from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing is a delightful journey as you traverse through some breathtaking areas of North Bengal. The route generally follows this sequence in terms of the route:
Bagdogra → Sevoke → Coronation Bridge → Odlabari → Chalsa/Nagrakata → Banarhat → Hasimara → Jaigaon → Phuentsholing
In brief, this journey involves National Highway No. 27 (NH27) and it is accomplished via Sevoke Road. The road comprises the famous Sevoke Coronation Bridge across river Teesta and takes you through the scenic beauty of Dooars where tea plantations can be seen.
On nearing the end of your journey, you shall cross the Hasimara area, and then reach the town of Jaigaon, which happens to be the smallest Indian town before crossing into Bhutan, before reaching Phuentsholing.
The road is pleasant as well as practical.
Distance and Travel Time
The distance by road between Bagdogra and Phuentsholing is about 170 kilometers, and it usually takes 4 to 4.5 hours to cover this distance via taxi, according to traffic and weather conditions and breaks.
Below is an approximate breakdown of the trip:
Segment | Approximate Distance | Approximate Time |
Bagdogra to Sevoke/Coronation Bridge | 20 km | 30–40 minutes |
Sevoke to Odlabari/Chalsa | 50 km | 1–1.5 hours |
Chalsa to Hasimara | 70 km | 1.5–2 hours |
Hasimara to Jaigaon/Phuentsholing | 30 km | 45 minutes–1 hour |
Note that the duration may increase a little during monsoon season (from June to September) because of rain in the Dooars area, or during the peak tourist season when there are many border crossings.
Best Time to Book Your Taxi
In the early morning after landing at Bagdogra Airport, it is advisable to take a taxi to Phuentsholing. By taking this option, you will be able to reach Jaigaon before it becomes dark outside. There will be sufficient time at your disposal to complete all the border formalities since the Bhutan border post in Phuentsholing closes quite early in the evening at approximately nine o clock. The benefit of traveling in the morning is that you can enjoy the beautiful sights of the Dooars region.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Have the right ID
Indians should have a valid photo ID (Voter ID, Aadhaar Card, or Passport) in order to enter Bhutan, whereas foreigners should have their passports and usually, a visa for Bhutan arranged prior to arrival. Keep both your original ID cards and their copies ready as they are required for verification at the immigration department in Jaigaon.
- Pre-book your taxi
During peak season (October – December & March – May), the taxis that are available from Bagdogra get booked fast, hence it is always advisable to book the Bagdogra to Phuentsholing taxi in advance using a reputable local taxi company in Jaigaon such as Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi.
- Arrange for a stoppage at Odlabari or Chalsa
These places are popular halts for drivers who stop to have tea and snacks or a meal. This is an ideal opportunity for you to walk around and experience the tea gardens surrounding these places.
- Know about the climatic conditions
The Dooars region witnesses heavy rains during monsoons sometimes, which may cause delay in your journey or even detour your route in exceptional cases.
- Consider the time taken for obtaining permits
Upon arrival at Jaigaon, you will have to get yourself formalities completed at the Bhutan immigration office before moving forward to Phuentsholing, Thimphu, and Paro. This may take somewhere between 30 minutes to a few hours.
- Choose a suitable car for your party size
Depending on whether you’re traveling alone, with your partner, or with a family group, the choice of a sedan, SUV, or tempo traveller will make a huge difference in comfort over the 4+ hour journey.
- Bring snacks and water
There are some stops along the way, but having your own snacks and water bottles is essential to being comfortable during the trip, especially with children and elders in the family group.
Why Book with Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi?
At Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi we focus on offering you comfortable and properly maintained taxis for the Bagdogra to Phuentsholing journey. Our drivers are familiar with the roads, borders, and other important stops, making your entry into Bhutan easier. If you require a one-way service, a return journey, or an onward taxi service to destinations such as Thimphu and Paro, our services include:
- Pick-up from Bagdogra Airport
- Properly maintained sedans, SUVs, and bigger cars
- Familiarity with the borders and permits by our drivers
- Upfront and transparent pricing without any hidden costs
- Flexible timing to suit your flights
Final Thoughts
Journey from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing marks the beginning of your Bhutan tour experience. Selecting the perfect taxi for this journey will make a huge difference in terms of a good or bad start to your holiday experience. The distance of about 170 km and journey time of nearly 4 to 4.5 hours make this route an excellent way to acclimatize yourself with the North Bengal region before arriving at the country of Bhutan.
Looking for the best Bagdogra to Phuentsholing taxi service? Book your taxi with Jaigaon Bhutan Taxi right away!