Bhutan reopens for overseas travelers after a long period of 30 month’s

On September 23, the country reopened to foreign travellers. Placing an incredible value on its cultural heritage, the happiness of its citizens and the sustainability of its carbon negative country, Bhutan has always had a conscious approach to tourism. And upon reopening, they significantly increased the tourist tax, which now costs $200 per day; the tax is called a sustainable development tax (SDF) and is intended to fund social programs, infrastructure and environmental protections. These protocols aim to prevent overtourism, as the number of visits has skyrocketed over the past 20 years.

The inflated sustainability tax isn't the only change. Pre-planned tours are no longer necessary, giving travelers more freedom. "Our tourism sector redesign strategy takes us back to our roots of 'high value, low volume' tourism, where we meet the needs of tourists while protecting our people, culture, values ​​and environment," said Dorji Dhradhul. , Managing Director, Bhutan Tourism Board. “Ensuring its sustainability is vital to safeguarding future generations.