Bhutan will finally reopen its borders to international tourists on 23 September. This is the first time the country is allowing tourists from across the world to enter since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The small Himalayan country bordering India and China is ready to improve its economy. It is known for its natural beauty, and the ancient Buddhist culture closed its border to tourists in March 2020, when Bhutan reported its first COVID-19 case.
Bhutan’s tourism ministry said the sector would improve, focusing on three key areas. The main focus will be on infrastructure and services, the travel experience of tourists and environmental impact.
Bhutan’s Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji has said that COVID-19 has allowed the country to relax and rethink how the region can best be structured and operated. He also mentioned that this step has been taken not only for the economic benefit of the country but also for the social as well as for keeping the carbon footprint down. “In the long run, our goal is to create high-value experiences for visitors and well-paying and professional jobs for our citizens,” Dorji said.
Among the changes are revised standards for service providers, including hotels, guides, tour operators and drivers, who will soon be subject to a more robust certification process before inducting tourists. Employees will be required to participate in skilling and reskilling programs to promote the quality of service.
Bhutan will also take measures to keep the country carbon-negative and a green destination for tourists amid climate change.
The country is increasing the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourists from USD 65 (US$) per person per night to USD 200. This will go towards activities that promote carbon-neutral tourism. Indian tourists will pay a pre-determined fee, which will be revised later.
Along with this, the Minimum Daily Package Rate (MDPR) will also be removed. This will allow tourists to directly connect with service providers and pay for their services.
“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 tourists while protecting our people, culture, values, and environment. 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,” said Dorji Dhradhul, Director General of the Tourism Council of Bhutan.