Bhutan announces five strategies to drive tourism in 2024

Bhutan’s department of tourism has implemented five key strategies to drive tourism to the country referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Asia’.

Reduced SDF fee:
Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) has been reduced to $152 per adult per night; while children between the ages of 6 and who have not yet turned 12 pay a reduced rate of $71 per night.

Simplified visa process:
Bhutan requires visas for all visitors, with no nationality restrictions. The introduction of an online visa application system has made this process more efficient. Typically, visas are processed within five working days, allowing for easier travel planning. The visa is valid for up to 90 days and costs USE 40.

Increased flight options:
Bhutan’s airlines, Drukair and Bhutan Airline, have expanded their flight options, providing increased accessibility to the kingdom with non-stop/transit flights connecting India, Singapore, Thailand, Nepal and Bangladesh to Paro International Airport. Soon, Bhutan Airlines will also start flights to Paro from Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

SDF Waiver for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) events:
Organisers of MICE events are now eligible to apply for a waiver of Bhutan’s daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). This initiative aims to enhance the MICE market’s impact, which extends through every layer of Bhutan’s tourism industry, including local businesses and event venues.

Bhutan’s focus on becoming a cricket destination:
Bhutan is now establishing itself as a premier destination for enthusiasts seeking unique cricket experience. Bhutan provides a cricket experience like no other, with the highest cricket grounds in the world, and where the love for the sport intertwines with the tranquility of its surroundings.

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