Bhutan Introduces Major Changes For Overseas Visitors & It’s Not For Indians

by Shreya Ghosh
Bhutan Introduces Major Changes For Overseas Visitors & It’s Not For Indians

Home to spectacular natural beauty and scenic surroundings, Bhutan is one of the most picturesque destinations to explore in Asia. This country has always been a favourite of most globetrotters but tourist footfall saw a major decrease in the past few years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. After a huge halt in tourism and touristy activities, Bhutan finally began allowing international tourists to enter the country in September 2022. And to enhance the travel industry here, some new changes have been made recently.

Bhutan Took The Decision To Lessen The Nightly Fee

Right after reopening the international borders, the country increased the Sustainable Development Fee to a huge extent. From $65, the fee took a major jump to $200. And now the Land of the Thunder Dragon is all set to decrease the nightly charges paid by visitors. If any tourist stays in Bhutan for more than 4 days, they need to pay a nightly fee, and now the government is reducing this charge. Bhutan is making such a significant change to attract more visitors and make their stay longer as well.

Also read: The Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan Sees A Huge Spike In Tourism; Expects 98,000 Tourists In 2023

Bhutan made such a huge change in the Sustainable Development Fee post-pandemic as they wanted more and more rich tourists travelling to the country. Also, the expensive fee was not an option for tourists who travel under a budget. Most budget tourists tend to pollute the environment and the nation is always known for taking strict decisions to protect its alluring beauty. Did you know that mountain climbing is banned here?

Stay More Days Here Spending Lesser Money

Well, things are now changing for the Asian country. Till 2024-end, visitors can stay additional 4 days in Bhutan by paying the daily fees for 4 consecutive days, according to a report by Hindustan Times. And if someone pays this charge for 12 days, they can extend their stay here for a month. This huge decision is a step to boost the travel sector and contribute better to the country’s economy.

Also read: Modern Bhutanese Artworks Are Making A Global Splash In Taiwan Exhibitions

Unfortunately, this rule is not applicable to visitors paying the fee in rupees. This change in the nightly fee works only for those visitors who are paying in dollars.

What do you think of this decision of the government?

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva