If Bhutan has been on your travel wishlist for a long time, you’d know all about its mandatory travel insurance policy. According to Bhutan’s Tourism Rules and Regulations 2022 it is mandatory for tourists to take travel insurance that covers permanent disability due to accident, accidental death, emergency medical evacuation and hospital charges in case of illness. Well, not anymore! Bhutan has now revoked its mandatory travel insurance to promote seamless travel for tourists again. Here’s more about it.
Bhutan Revokes Mandatory Travel Insurance For Tourists, Effective Immediately
In a notification issued by the Department of Tourism Bhutan, dated April 23, 2024, Bhutan has officially lifted its mandatory requirement of travel insurance for tourists. This requirement was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose behind it was to cover unforeseen emergencies especially medical expenses related to COVID-19. With the telos to promote seamless travel for tourists, this requirement is revoked effective immediately.
As per the notification, the mandatory requirement of travel insurance is hereby withdrawn, effective immediately for visa processing. However, Bhutan still recommends tourists get travel insurance as a precautionary measure in case of any medical emergencies that are associated with international trips. Earlier, proof of travel insurance coverage in the English language was mandatory to apply for a visa. Well, not anymore! Now, it’s optional to take travel insurance while flying to Bhutan.
If You Fall Sick, You Can Get Treated At Ayurvedic & Western Hospitals
In case you fall sick during your trip to Bhutan, you can visit Thimphu’s National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Here, a doctor will check your pulse and temperature and enquire about your bowels. Instead of allopathy, you will be treated with traditional ayurvedic medicine curated from local plants. The best part? Your treatment will be absolutely free of cost. However, a small donation is appreciated. You can also visit the nearest hospital for Western medicine treatment.
Also Read: Stranded In War Zone? Here’s What Travel Insurance Will Cover And Not Cover For Indians
When are you making your dream vacation to the happiest country in the world a reality?
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