Gaya is one of the most significant spiritual destinations in the world and an important gateway to Bhutan for Buddhist pilgrims and travellers alike. Located in the Indian state of Bihar, the city is best known for Bodh Gaya, where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment beneath the Bodhi Tree and became the Buddha.
For visitors combining two of Buddhism's most sacred destinations, Gaya offers a convenient route to Bhutan. With scheduled Drukair flights between Gaya and Paro, travellers can easily continue their spiritual journey from the birthplace of Buddhism to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Whether you're travelling on pilgrimage or exploring the rich Buddhist heritage of South Asia, flying from Gaya provides a seamless connection to Bhutan.
Gaya is one of Bhutan's most important seasonal gateways and serves as a key departure point for Buddhist pilgrims visiting both India and Bhutan.
Travellers choose Gaya because of its:
For many visitors, travelling from Bodh Gaya to Bhutan is a meaningful continuation of their Buddhist pilgrimage through the Himalayas.
Drukair operates scheduled seasonal services between Gaya Airport (GAY) and Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan's only international airport.
The route provides one of the most convenient ways for pilgrims and travellers to journey between two of the Buddhist world's most important destinations.
As the aircraft approaches Bhutan, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayas before experiencing the unforgettable landing into Paro Valley.
Drukair operates seasonal flights between Gaya and Bhutan, primarily during the Buddhist pilgrimage season.
| Flight Number | Route | Operating Days |
| KB171 | Gaya (GAY) – Paro (PBH) | Seasonal |
| KB170 | Paro (PBH) – Gaya (GAY) | Seasonal |
Flight schedules vary depending on the pilgrimage season. Please check the latest timetable before planning your journey.
A typical Gaya to Bhutan flight operates as follows:
Route: Gaya → Paro
Flight duration: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Flight times vary depending on the seasonal operating schedule.
Return flights depart Paro and arrive back in Gaya on the same day.
The flight from Gaya to Bhutan is much more than simply travelling between two countries.
For many pilgrims, it represents a journey between Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment, and Bhutan, where Vajrayana Buddhism continues to flourish as an integral part of daily life.
As the aircraft approaches the Himalayas, passengers enjoy spectacular mountain scenery before descending into the peaceful Paro Valley, surrounded by monasteries, forests and traditional Bhutanese villages.
Window seats are highly recommended for the best views during the journey.
Passengers travelling with Drukair should check in at:
Gaya Airport (GAY)
Bihar, India
We recommend arriving at least three hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop and security procedures.
Airport check-in counters generally open three hours before departure and close one hour before departure.
Before travelling from Gaya to Bhutan, make sure you have:
Travellers are also encouraged to carry their passport as their primary form of identification throughout their journey.
Drukair's standard baggage allowance varies depending on your cabin class.
Economy Class
Business Class
If your luggage exceeds the permitted allowance, excess baggage charges will apply and are subject to available aircraft capacity.
Passengers travelling with sporting equipment, musical instruments, oversized items or other special luggage are advised to contact Drukair before departure so that the necessary arrangements can be made in advance.
Many travellers spend several days exploring Bodh Gaya before continuing to Bhutan.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bodh Gaya attracts Buddhist pilgrims from around the world and offers a peaceful environment for meditation, reflection and learning.
Popular attractions include:
The spiritual atmosphere of Bodh Gaya provides a meaningful introduction before discovering Bhutan's monasteries, dzongs and sacred temples.
Gaya Airport (GAY) is an international airport serving Bihar and one of India's most important gateways for Buddhist pilgrimage tourism.
During the pilgrimage season, the airport welcomes travellers from across Asia, particularly those visiting Bodh Gaya before continuing to destinations such as Bhutan.
Its close proximity to the Mahabodhi Temple makes it the most convenient airport for travellers visiting Bodh Gaya.
Passengers can enjoy a range of facilities, including:
Drukair provides one of the most convenient ways to travel between Bodh Gaya and Bhutan.
Passengers enjoy:
Whether you're travelling for pilgrimage, cultural exploration or a Bhutan holiday, Drukair offers a memorable gateway to the Himalayas.
Yes. Drukair operates seasonal direct flights between Gaya and Paro during the Buddhist pilgrimage season.
The flight from Gaya to Paro takes approximately one and a half hours.
Drukair operates from Gaya Airport (GAY) in Bihar, India.
All international flights arrive at Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan's only international airport.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure.
Gaya is home to Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Many pilgrims combine Bodh Gaya and Bhutan as part of a wider Buddhist pilgrimage across South Asia.
Absolutely. Many travellers spend several days exploring Bodh Gaya's monasteries and sacred sites before flying to Bhutan.
Economy Class passengers receive 30 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage, while Business Class passengers receive 40 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of cabin baggage.
Yes. Travellers may book Drukair flights only or arrange a complete Bhutan holiday through one of Drukair's authorised representatives.
Yes. The journey offers beautiful views of the Himalayas before the spectacular approach into Paro Valley.
Flying from Gaya is one of the most meaningful ways to begin your journey to Bhutan, especially if you're combining Bodh Gaya and Bhutan as part of a Buddhist pilgrimage. Whether you're travelling for spiritual exploration, cultural discovery or a holiday in the Himalayas, Drukair offers a comfortable gateway to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
If you're looking for a seamless Bhutan holiday or pilgrimage, our authorised representatives such as Druk Asia can assist with your complete travel arrangements, including Drukair flights, Bhutan visa applications, tour packages, accommodation and personalised itineraries.
Flying from Gaya to Bhutan? Read Druk Asia’s Bhutan travel tips before you book your trip to Bhutan.
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