Bhutan Dispels 'Visitor Limit' Rumours; "Unlimited Tourists Welcome"

Bhutan had earlier imposed a Sustainable Development Fee on tourists under which every visitor must pay around $100 to visit the land, and Indian visitors will have to pay ₹ $1200.

By Mrinal Verma 17 Sep 2024

in Travel

asd — Bhutan is welcoming unlimited number of visitors, as long as they respect the country's eco-tourism rules

New Update

The chief marketing officer of Bhutan Tourism, Carissa Nimah, has announced that the country does not have a cap on the number of tourists that can visit the nation. The clarification comes amidst various rumours and concerns about the Asian nation having a cap on visitors.

*Carissa Nimah, chief marketing officer, Department of Tourism, Bhutan*

Bhutan is Open to All

However, Nimah and the tourism board of Bhutan have clarified that the aim of the country, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath, is not to invite mass tourism to the destination but instead "high-value guests". This goal had caused confusion amongst travellers, sparking rumours of a fixed tourist cap. On the other hand, the country wants respectful guests to visit the land who can truly appreciate what the nation has to offer. This viewpoint regarding tourists also aligns with the country's first and foremost aim of protecting its environmental and cultural heritage.

Bhutan's Tourist Tax

Bhutan had earlier imposed a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) on tourists. Every visitor is now required to pay around $100, and Indian visitors will have to pay ₹ $1200. The country will use this tourism fee to achieve its sustainability goals and promote eco-tourism in the country.