Bhutan Embassy in India

About Bhutan

Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, covering an area of around 38,394 square kilometres. It has a population of approximately 791,524. With its capital in Thimphu, Bhutan is known for its rich cultural heritage and commitment to Gross National Happiness. Bhutan has a unique economy that balances sustainable tourism, agriculture, and hydropower.

• Relations with India: Bhutan and India share a deep-rooted partnership grounded in history, cultural affinity, and mutual respect. India is Bhutan's largest trading partner and development aid provider, with extensive collaboration in hydropower, education, and infrastructure. In August 2019, four major bilateral projects were signed between the two countries to benefit both economies and ensure regional stability.
• Tourism Opportunities: Travelling to Bhutan is easy for Indians, with a permit costing around INR 1,200 cheaper than other foreign tourists. In 2023, Bhutan welcomed 72,659 Indian tourists, which is expected to rise significantly in 2024. Bhutan offers excellent opportunities in hospitality, infrastructure, and eco-tourism to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.
• Expats in India and Vice Versa: Around 50,000 Indian citizens work in Bhutan, mostly in construction, education, and infrastructure projects. Many Indian daily workers also cross the border into Bhutan, showing the close economic ties between the two countries.
• Visa Requirements for Indian Visitors: Indian nationals do not need a visa to visit Bhutan but must carry a valid passport or government-issued ID. Additional permits may be required for certain visits, which can be obtained at the border or through the Department of Immigration in Bhutan.
• Ease of Commute: In Bhutan, buses are affordable and commonly used for travel between destinations, such as from Thimphu to Paro. However, they can be crowded and take time due to winding roads. For quicker travel, Drukair offers a short flight from Paro to Bumthang. Cycling and motorbike tours are also popular for exploring Bhutan's mountains.

Note: The exemptions are subject to change at the time of travel. Please confirm once from the official sources.

Difference Between Embassy and Consulate

Knowing the role of each diplomatic mission helps make the visa process easier. Understanding which mission handles visa applications, document attestation, or consular services ensures you go to the right place and avoid delays.

• Embassy: An embassy is a primary diplomatic mission in a foreign country headed by an ambassador. It manages diplomatic relations and facilitates political, economic, and cultural interactions between the home country and the host nation.
• Consulate: A consulate is a smaller diplomatic office located in significant cities, assisting citizens of the home country. A Consul General typically heads each consulate and focuses on providing services such as passport renewals, civic support, and visa assistance.

When Can You Contact the Bhutan Embassy/Consulates?

These offices assist both Indian nationals and Bhutanese citizens. Knowing their services and hours helps ensure smooth communication for visa applications, passport renewals, and consular support.

How to Contact the Bhutan Embassy/Consulate

Here is a table with the location, contact information, and working hours for the Bhutan Embassy and Consulates in India:

Indian Embassy in Bhutan

The Indian Embassy in Thimphu is the primary diplomatic mission for Indian nationals in Bhutan. It offers essential services such as visa processing, passport renewal, legal assistance, and emergency support. The embassy plays a key role in facilitating consular services and ensuring the welfare of Indian citizens in Bhutan.

Emergency Contact

For emergencies, particularly for Indian nationals needing assistance outside regular hours and on holidays, the embassy provides 24-hour helpline numbers: +975-2-322162 and +975-2-327048. This line is dedicated to urgent issues such as accidents, lost documents, or legal help.

Key Services

• Crisis Response: In emergencies like natural disasters or civil unrest, the embassy offers critical support, such as coordination with local agencies, assisting in evacuation, and organising safe transportation for Indian citizens.
• Repatriation and Financial Aid: For Indian nationals in distress, the embassy may assist with repatriation or temporary financial aid, contingent on case-specific evaluations and policies.
• Coordination with Local Authorities: The embassy collaborates with Bhutanese authorities to assist Indian nationals facing legal or health emergencies, ensuring consular access when needed.

How is Bhutan Travel Insurance Helpful?

Bhutan Travel Insurance for Indians offers protection for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings and provides 24/7 emergency assistance, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.

• Medical Emergencies and Evacuation: Covers costs for hospitalisation, accidental injuries, and emergency evacuation or repatriation if needed.
• Trip Cancellations and Interruptions: Offers reimbursement for unexpected cancellations, delays, or interruptions due to medical, personal, or environmental emergencies, helping recover non-refundable expenses.
• Lost Baggage and Personal Belongings: Travel insurance policy compensates for lost or delayed luggage, covering urgent essentials to reduce travel disruptions.
• Emergency Assistance: Provides round-the-clock support for medical, legal, and travel-related issues, including assistance with lost travel documents by coordinating with the embassy.