Tourism Policy of Bhutan
Today tourism is a vibrant business with a high potential for growth and further development. The Royal Government of Bhutan adheres strongly to a policy of ‘High Value, Low Volume’ tourism which serves the purpose of creating an image of exclusivity and high- yield for Bhutan. The tourism industry in Bhutan is founded on the principle of sustainability, meaning that tourism must be environmentally and ecologically friendly, socially and culturally acceptable and economically viable. The Royal Government of Bhutan recognizes that tourism is a world-wide phenomenon and an important means of achieving socioeconomic development particularly for a developing country like Bhutan. It believes that tourism, in affording the opportunity to travel, can help to promote a deeper understanding among people and to strengthen ties of friendship based on a deeper appreciation and respect for different cultures and lifestyles.
Towards achieving this objective, the Royal Government, has adopted a very cautious approach to growth and development of the tourism industry in Bhutan. Its tremendous potential as a truly
indigenous industry and the clear comparative advantages Bhutan enjoys, are compelling reasons to promote Bhutan as a high-end tourist destination in a manner which accords with the tenets of Gross National Happiness. New SDF – Tourism Levy A tourist must pay a tourism levy known as the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) USD 200 per night, which may be revised from time to time by the Competent Authority. The Sustainable development Fee enables investment in transformative programs that preserve our culture traditions, protect our heritage and environment, upgrade infrastructure, create opportunities for our younger generations and build resilience.
Tourist from India are levied SDF of Nu/ 1,200 or equivalent amount in Indian currency ( INR) per person per night, which will remain in effect for two and half years years, following which time it may be reviewed and revised in keeping with the principle of the preferential rate after two years.
The Minimum Daily Package Rate (MDPR) is being phased out. Tourists will be able to engage service providers directly and pay for their services accordingly. Bhutan Visa Fee and documentation
Requirement:
A passport copy is required. The passport must be valid for six months from the intended date of
departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Individual travel insurance valid for the Bhutan trip. A recent passport size photograph.
The visa fee is USD 40 per person and it is non-refundable. While the process to issue the visa is usually quick, the visa can take up to five working days to process.
Exemption Subject to any conditions specified in the Rules, the Competent Authority may provide for an exemption or concessionary levy rate on the applicable Sustainable Development Fee:
Day tourists who do not travel beyond the first designated point are exempt. Travelers Choice is a licensed tour operator as certified by the Department of Tourism, and the Association of Bhutanese Tourism Operators. Children aged 5 and under are exempt. Concessionary levy of 50% for children aged 6 to 12 years. Other exemptions or levy rates that may be deemed necessary.