Bhutan, the secluded Himalayan kingdom, has made a dramatic move to cut its tourist fees in half. The decision aims to rejuvenate a tourism sector still reeling from the pandemic. But will this financial incentive be enough to lure travelers back to this unique destination?
By Joseph Gutierrez
The Big Cut: From $200 to $100
In a recent announcement, the Bhutanese government revealed plans to halve the daily “Sustainable Development Fee” charged to tourists, reducing it from $200 to $100 per night. This new rate will be effective from September and will last for four years. The fee was initially raised to $200 last year to offset the carbon footprint generated by tourists.
The Economic Imperative
Tourism is a vital sector for Bhutan, contributing significantly to its $3 billion economy. The government aims to increase tourism’s contribution to the economy from 5% to 20%. With more than 50,000 Bhutanese employed in the sector, the fee reduction is seen as a crucial step to boost employment and foreign exchange earnings.
The Tourist Numbers Game
Bhutan has always been cautious about mass tourism to preserve its unique culture and environment. In 2019, the country welcomed 315,600 tourists, a 15.1% increase from the previous year. However, the majority of these tourists are big spenders, unlike the throngs that visit neighboring Nepal. The fee cut aims to attract a broader range of tourists while maintaining sustainability.
The Indian Exception
Interestingly, Indian nationals make up a significant portion of tourists in Bhutan. Since January, more than 56,000 tourists have visited the country, of which about 42,000 were Indians. They are charged a nominal fee of 1,200 Indian rupees ($14.5) per day, far less than other international tourists.
Bhutan’s decision to slash its tourist fees is a calculated risk, aiming to balance economic recovery with environmental sustainability. While the fee cut is a significant financial incentive, it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to revive a sector still struggling to find its footing post-pandemic. One thing is clear: Bhutan is more eager than ever to welcome tourists back to its mystical lands.