Gelephu, Bhutan: travel guide
A southern Bhutan border town on the edge of the plains
A southern border town and site of the planned Gelephu Mindfulness City special administrative region. A growing gateway with a domestic airport (GLU).
About Gelephu
Gelephu is a town on Bhutan's southern border with India, in the Sarpang district, where the Himalayan foothills open onto the plains. It feels warmer and more tropical than the mountain valleys further north, and it is a different side of the country.
The town is practical and low-key rather than a sightseeing stop. Gelephu Town Park and the clock tower give a feel for everyday life, Zangthopelri Park and Lhakhang offers a temple visit, and the border gate marks the crossing into India. A domestic airport also makes Gelephu a useful entry point to southern and central Bhutan.
It suits travellers linking the south to the central valleys by road or air, or those curious about a less-travelled corner of the country. Autumn and spring are generally the most comfortable seasons.
- Country
- Bhutan
- Currency
- BTN
- Time zone
- Asia/Thimphu
- Nearest airport
- GLU
Last updated
Top places to visit in Gelephu
Bhutan-India Border Gate, Gelephu
landmark · 4.1 rating · about 0.3 h · check the fee at the gate
The newly built Bhutan entry gate on the Indo-Bhutan border at Gelephu, gateway to the southern frontier town and the future Mindfulness City.
Gelephu Clock Tower
landmark · 4.4 rating · about 0.5 h · check the fee at the gate
Central clock-tower square with a small park, mani and dungkhor prayer structures, ringed by shops and eateries; the town's main meeting point.
Gelephu Town Park
park · 4.2 rating · about 0.8 h · check the fee at the gate
Tidy central park with walking pavements, a fountain, lawns and flowers; lively in the evenings and a relaxed family spot.
GMC Viewpoint
scenic · 4.4 rating · about 0.5 h · check the fee at the gate
Hillside vantage point overlooking Gelephu, its airport and the developing Mindfulness City area, with broad views across the town.
Zangthopelri Park & Lhakhang
temple · 3.8 rating · about 0.5 h · check the fee at the gate
Buddhist temple set at the centre of a peaceful landscaped park beside the clock tower; free, clean and well-maintained.
Where to stay in Gelephu
Hotels
- Hotel Kuku Grand 3-star
- Deyngyam Boutique 3-star
- Lhaazaayy Suites 3-star
- Goldfish Resort & Waterpark 3-star
- Hotel Kingacholing 2-star
- Hotel Yangtsholing Taraa 3-star
Where to eat
- Someplace Else Bhutanese, International, Bar · about BTN 650 per person
- Skyview Restro Bhutanese, International · about BTN 650 per person
- MAD MIX Vegetarian, Indian, Bhutanese · about BTN 650 per person
- The Chambers (Bites & Brews) Mexican, International, Bar · about BTN 650 per person
- Momo Corner Gelephu Bhutanese, Fast Food · about BTN 250 per person
- Lemon House Restaurant Bhutanese, International · about BTN 650 per person
- The Black Mountain Bistro Bhutanese, Thai, International · about BTN 650 per person
- Nomads Restaurant Bhutanese · about BTN 650 per person
Getting to Gelephu
Airport: Gelephu (GLU)
Getting around
- Car With Driver
- Taxi
- Walking