Indians flying to Nepal or Bhutan now need to know the Nepal Bhutan travel rules that took effect on 5 November 2026. The Ministry of Home Affairs notified an amendment that says travellers must show at least one identity document listed in the government’s Visa Manual.
Quick answer
- Order: Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) (Amendment) Order, 2026, effective 5 November 2026.
- Direct India to Nepal or Bhutan trips: carry at least one ID document named in the Visa Manual.
- Flying to Nepal: a valid Indian passport or an original, photographed Voter ID.
- Aadhaar, PAN card and driving licence are not accepted for air travel to Nepal.
- Going on to a third country via these borders: a valid passport is required.
What changed in the Nepal Bhutan travel rules
The order amends the 2025 exemption order under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. It also covers Indian citizens travelling to Nepal or Bhutan by land or air, and those coming back. It also covers Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens entering or leaving India.
According to Outlook Traveller, the notification does not reproduce the full list of accepted documents. So the Visa Manual is the place to check, and officers may also ask for more information.
Documents for Nepal
For air travel, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu lists two options on its valid travel documents page. These are a valid Indian passport, or an original Voter ID card with a photograph issued by the Election Commission of India.
The embassy is clear on the limits. So a downloaded or online printed Voter ID is not acceptable. Aadhaar, PAN card, driving licence and the embassy registration are also not accepted for travel to Nepal.
Documents for Bhutan
Bhutan’s Department of Immigration, as reported by Outlook Traveller, asks for an original valid passport or Voter Identity Card. Travellers use it to get an entry permit on arrival. However, other IDs are not accepted under its published guidance.
If you are heading to a third country
The passport exemption applies only to direct travel between India and Nepal or Bhutan. If you cross these borders on the way to or from another country, you need a valid passport. In that case, entry into or exit from India must go through designated immigration posts.
Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens who travel through China, Macau, Hong Kong or Pakistan need both a valid passport and a valid visa.
How to prepare
First, check which document you hold and whether it is the original. Then look at your airline’s travel document page before booking. Also keep a passport handy even for a short trip, because it removes most doubt at the airport.
If your passport has expired, our guide to renewing a passport online covers the steps.
FAQ
Can I fly to Nepal with only an Aadhaar card?
No. However, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu says Aadhaar is not accepted for travel to Nepal. For air travel you need a valid passport or an original photographed Voter ID.
Is a digital Voter ID enough?
No. Also, the embassy says downloaded or online printed copies are not acceptable. Carry the original card with your photograph.
Do I need a passport for Bhutan?
Bhutan’s published guidance accepts an original valid passport or Voter Identity Card for the entry permit. Other IDs are not accepted, so check before you travel.
