Bhutan opened its borders in September 2022 with renewed focus on sustainability and why the tariff to enter Bhutan has increased post pandemic.
In a world that is always on the go, Bhutan provides sanctuary.
BHUTAN, 29.06.22: The Kingdom of Bhutan reopened its borders to guests from 23rd September 2022. But it will do so with a renewed focus on the sustainability of the sector. The tourism sector has undergone a revamp, which focuses on three key areas. They are infrastructure and services, the travel experiences of guests, and the sector’s environmental impact.
Not only economically, but socially as well, while keeping carbon footprints low.
“COVID-19 has allowed Bhutan to reset – to rethink how the sector can be best structured and operated, so that it not only benefits Bhutan economically, but socially as well, while keeping carbon footprints low. Bhutan’s goal moving forward is to create high-value experiences for visitors, and well-paying and professional jobs for our citizens.
Create high-value experiences for visitors, and well-paying and professional jobs for our citizens.
Among the slew of changes are revised standards for service providers, including hotels, guides, tour operators, and drivers, that are subject to a more robust certification process before they can engage with guests. Employees will be required to participate in skilling and reskilling programmes, where necessary, to boost service quality. Amid the intensifying threat of climate change, Bhutan will be stepping up its efforts to keep the country carbon-negative and a green destination for our guests. The nation is keenly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as frequent rain and floods.
Bhutan has raised the Sustainable Development Fee.
As such, Bhutan has raised the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for guests to USD 200 per person per night, which will go towards activities that promote carbon-neutral tourism and building a more sustainable tourism sector. This includes offsetting the carbo footprint of visitors and upskilling workers in the sector. Our strategy for the revamp of the tourism sector brings us back to our roots, of ‘High Value, Low Volume’ tourism, where we meet the needs of our guests while protecting our people, culture, values, and environment.
High Value, Low Volume tourism
Tourism is a strategic and valuable national asset, one that does not only impact those working in the sector but all Bhutanese. Ensuring its sustainability is vital to safeguarding future generations.
This kingdom is steeped in history, but our gaze is fixed on the future. This is our moment of evolution.
Guardians of some of the world’s most pristine, wild and sacred places – and of a rich, deeply rooted culture – we are steadfast as the cypress in our commitment to conservation.
Our future requires us to protect our heritage and to forge fresh pathways for forthcoming generations. Those who seek us out are called here.
Arriving as guests, you become our partners in this transformative moment and make a meaningful contribution towards preserving what is priceless. We see a bright future.
And we believe in our ability and responsibility to realize it together, and shine as a beacon of possibility in the world.