Bhutan introduces mandatory tourist fee for regional travellers

23 Jan 2020

Bhutan introduces mandatory tourist fee for regional travellers

Bhutan introduces mandatory tourist fee for regional travellersBhutan government has introduced a mandatory fee for tourists visiting from its neighbouring countries such as India, Bangladesh and Maldives.

Starting from this month, any traveller from these countries visiting Bhutan have to pay Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of ₹1000.

What were the terms before this?

Bhutan charges US$250 per day from all foreign tourists, which includes US$65 SDF.
 	However, up to now, tourists from India, Bangladesh and Maldives had been exempt from paying a visa or any other fee to enter Bhutan.

What is the reason behind the new SDF?

The fee has been imposed as there have been reports of some tourists disobeying the local law and order and also showing disrespect towards local customs and traditions.
 	Additionally, the Bhutan government wants to control the flow of travellers from South Asian countries.

Bhutan also plans to impose visa fees on regional tourists in the future.

Why is Bhutan such a popular tourist destination, especially among Indians?

Bhutan is known for its natural beauty, forest conservation, culture and heritage.
 	Apart from being nearby, the restrictions on Indian tourists are much lesser than many others. Indians can enter Bhutan without a passport if they have a Voter's ID.

Recommended for Middle Grades

Bhutan government has introduced a mandatory fee for tourists visiting from its neighbouring countries such as India, Bangladesh and Maldives. Starting from this month, any […]

To read more...

Share your comment! Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

To post your comment Login/Signup