Bhutan is officially reopening its border for tourists from 23 September, 2022
- 02-Aug-2022
- 0
Bhutan, the last Shangri-La, is set to reopen its border for tourists by 23rd September this year. So, finally, a long wait is over to explore the Himalayan kingdom, which remained shut down for two years in response to COVID-19.
In a press release on 29th June 2022, Bhutan's Tourism Council officially announced opening its land for foreigners with specific changes and a primary focus on the sustainability of the tourism sector.
So, what are the things brought up in the new travel policy?
The first thing they reformed is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for international tourists to USD 200 per person per night, which is a threefold increase from previously USD 65. This policy mainly focuses on bringing quality tourists on the motto of a "high value, low volume" approach, boosting sustainable tourism, and carrying out activities to limit carbon footprints.
Furthermore, the previous policy of Minimum Daily Package Rate (MDPR) has been removed now. Previously, tourists had to pay $250 during peak season and $200 during the off-season for the inclusive package tour that includes accommodation, meals, transport, admission fees, and the services of a local guide.
All in all, there are no obligations for tourists to travel to Bhutan through organized tours. This new policy ensures flexibility in selecting places and accommodations; independent travelers can directly book with hotels and customize itineraries with their interests. However, guides are somehow compulsory.
As per the tourism council, they utilized this period to reset and rethink better structuring and managing the tourism sector that focuses on both the economic and social development of Bhutanese and sustaining environmental resources while keeping carbon footprints low.
They restructured the sector, focusing on the three key areas; infrastructure and services, travel experiences of tourists, and the sector's environmental impact.
Moreover, the tourism sector is the direct source of the country's economy, which helps uplift the Bhutanese status in all aspects. Therefore, the culturally and naturally rich nation hopes to gain more visitors to boost its primary economic source from the coming September.
As soon as the border reopens, tourists will again get an opportunity to explore its unspoiled natural entities, stunning landscapes, mesmerizing mountains and peaks, and biodiversity. Their culture, traditions, customs, foods, architecture, warm hospitality, and ever-smiling face will lure the heart of every visitor.
The land of the dragon, the land of the happiest people on earth, a beautiful carbon-negative kingdom, has many renowned and honored heritages like Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), Punakha dzong, etc., that will enrich your soul with uttermost satisfaction.
