Siliguri (NJP and Bagdogra) to Phuentsholing
Your options
Ways to make the journey
4.5–5 h
Buses run from the Tenzing Norgay terminus to Phuentsholing and to Jaigaon, the Indian border town next to it. Bhutanese and Indian operators run services; morning departures are best. Walk through the Bhutan Gate from Jaigaon if your bus stops on the Indian side.
4–5 h
A car from NJP, Siliguri or Bagdogra runs along the Dooars highway via Sevoke, Malbazar, Birpara and Hasimara to Jaigaon. Indian cars need a permit to go beyond Phuentsholing. Many travellers combine this with a night at Lataguri or Madarihat.
4–5 h
Take a train on the Dooars line to Hasimara, about 18 km from Jaigaon, then a car or bus to the border. Check current timetables before you travel.
Worth a stop
- Coronation Bridge
- Malbazar
- Birpara
- Hasimara
- Jaigaon
Questions people ask
Good to know
How far is Phuentsholing from Siliguri
About 160 km, four to five hours by road via Sevoke, Malbazar, Birpara, Hasimara and Jaigaon. From Madarihat (Jaldapara) it is only about an hour. Buses and cars both run the route.
What documents do Indians need for Phuentsholing
A valid passport or voter ID card, passport photos and hotel booking details. The entry permit is issued at the Phuentsholing immigration office, and the Sustainable Development Fee applies to overnight stays. Rules change, so check current status before you travel.
Can foreigners enter Bhutan at Phuentsholing
Yes, but foreign nationals need a Bhutan visa arranged in advance, usually through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, and must pay the Sustainable Development Fee at the foreign-visitor rate. They also need to exit India properly at the border. Check current status before you travel.
Is there a bus from Siliguri to Phuentsholing
Yes. Buses run from the Tenzing Norgay terminus in Siliguri to Phuentsholing and to Jaigaon next door, taking about four and a half to five hours. Morning services are most reliable. Check current schedules locally.