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BhutanTourism is booming with the introduction of visa-free travel programs for citizens of Bangladesh, India and the Maldives. The initiative aims to attract more visitors and boost the country’s tourism industry. Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom on the eastern edge of the Himalayas, is famous for its monasteries, fortresses (dzongs) and dramatic landscapes, ranging from tropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. Peaks like the 7,326 m Jomolhari in the High Himalayas are popular trekking destinations.

In 2024, Bhutan welcomed 25,000 tourists, with India emerging as the top market. March 2024 was the third busiest month since the country reopened, with 14,822 arrivals. In the past eight months, the top ten tourists came from India, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Vietnam and other countries.

GDP and its sources of Bhutan:

At the end of 2023, Bhutan’s GDP was estimated at $11 billion in purchasing power parity terms. The country’s small economy is mainly dependent on hydropower, agriculture and forestry. Agriculture accounts for 14.67 percent of Bhutan’s GDP, industry contributes about 31.82 percent, and the service sector contributes about 51.2 percent.

The following 3 countries can visit Bhutan without a visa:

Airports in Bhutan:

• Paro International Airport, the main gateway to Bhutan, handles approximately 300,000 outbound passengers annually. This traffic highlights the important role of the airport in connecting Bhutan to major international destinations and supporting the country’s tourism industry.
• Galefu Airport Handles around 50,000 outbound passengers every year. This figure underlines its growing importance in enhancing regional connectivity and promoting domestic travel in Bhutan.
• Bumthang Domestic Airport Sees an outbound passenger traffic of around 30,000 annually. The increase reflects the airport’s role in boosting domestic tourism and facilitating travel to cultural and historical sites in central Bhutan.
• Yongefulla Airport Handles approximately 25,000 outbound passengers annually. This traffic highlights the growing role of the airport in improving connectivity with eastern Bhutan and promoting regional tourism.
• Bathpalthang Airport Handles approximately 20,000 outbound passengers annually. This traffic underscores the airport’s importance in enhancing connectivity with central Bhutan and supporting local tourism and economic activities.

Airlines in Bhutan:

• Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines)Bhutan’s flagship airline, carries approximately 250,000 outbound passengers annually. This passenger traffic underscores the airline’s important role in connecting Bhutan to major international destinations and supporting the country’s tourism industry.
• Bhutan Airlines Carrying approximately 150,000 outbound passengers annually, it plays an important role in connecting Bhutan to key international destinations. This passenger traffic underscores the importance of airlines in promoting tourism and facilitating global travel.

McMyTrip launches exclusive charter flights to Bhutan amid surge in Indian interest:

According to media reports in India, MakeMyTrip has launched a new weekly charter service between Mumbai and Bhutan as part of its holiday packages. This responds to Bhutan’s growing popularity among Indian tourists with a 200% year-on-year search increase on the platform. The flights, operated by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, will operate from Mumbai and Bengaluru to Paro, with 12 flights booked from April 27 to June 2, carrying 120 to 130 passengers each. Drukair offers direct flights from Paro to various Asian destinations including Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Singapore, Mumbai and Guwahati.

Best Hotels to Stay in Bhutan:

• Le Meridien Thimphu: Located in the heart of the capital, Le Méridien Thimphu offers luxurious accommodation with modern amenities. The hotel offers guests stunning views of the Himalayas and easy access to Thimphu’s cultural attractions.
• Silver Cloud Hotel: Silver Cloud Hotel is known for its comfortable rooms and exceptional service. Situated in a prime location, it allows guests to easily explore Bhutan’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
• Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront: Nestled on the banks of the Paro River, Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront provides a tranquil and picturesque setting. The hotel offers upscale amenities and convenient access to Paro’s historic sites and natural beauty.
• Pemako Thimphu: Pemako Thimphu combines traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern comforts, providing a unique and immersive stay. Guests can enjoy panoramic views and explore the vibrant culture of Thimphu from this well-located hotel.
• Pema by Region: The Pema By Realm offers an elegant and serene retreat with personalized service. Located in a quiet area, this hotel is ideal for guests looking for a peaceful getaway while still being close to major attractions.

Explore Bhutan’s Vibrant Cultural Heritage: Top Festivals

• Thimphu Tsechu Festival: Thimphu Tsechu is one of Bhutan’s most famous festivals, featuring vibrant mask dances and traditional performances. It attracts thousands of locals and tourists every October.
• Jambe Lakhang Drup Festival: Celebrated at the ancient Jambe Lakhang Math, the festival includes fire rituals and masked dances. It is a significant cultural event held in Bumthang every November.
• Wangdu Phodrang Tshechu Festival: The festival is known for its mesmerizing mask dances and display of the sacred thongdrol (large tapestry). It is celebrated in the picturesque town of Wangdu Phodrang.
• Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu Festival: Punakha Drubchen shows historical reenactments of Bhutanese conquests, while Tshechu performs ritual mask dances. Both festivals occur every year in Punakha Dzong.
• Paro Tshechu Festival: Held at Paro Dzong, the festival includes the famous dance of Guru Rinpoche’s Eight Manifestations. It draws a huge crowd every spring, eager to witness the colorful celebrations.
• Yes Summer Festival: Ha Summer Festival celebrates Bhutanese culture through traditional games, food and performances. It gives a glimpse of the nomadic lifestyle of the inhabitants of Ha Valley.
• Matsutake Festival: Celebrated in Ura, Bumthang, the Matsutake Festival is dedicated to the prized Matsutake mushrooms. Visitors enjoy mushroom picking, feasting and cultural performances.

Top Destinations in Bhutan:

• Mercury: Paro, home to Bhutan’s only international airport, is known for its tranquil atmosphere, rich cultural heritage and iconic landmarks such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Visitors are attracted to its blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
• Thimphu: Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, offers a fascinating mix of traditional and modern attractions, including the majestic Tashicho Dzong and the bustling Thimphu Market. The unique charm of the city lies in its harmonious blend of old and new.
• Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historically significant forts, is located at the confluence of the Mo and Pho rivers. It is famous for its stunning architecture and scenic location.
• Yes Valley: Ha Valley, a hidden gem in western Bhutan, is known for its natural beauty, traditional Bhutanese villages and ancient temples. It offers a quiet retreat for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
• Gangte Valley: Gangtey Valley, also known as Phobjikha Valley, is a glacial valley known for its scenic beauty and the annual migration of black-necked cranes. The valley is home to the picturesque Gangte Math.

Bhutan stands as a unique and culturally rich nation, deeply rooted in its traditions while embracing sustainable development. The country’s focus on Gross National Happiness, stunning natural landscapes and vibrant festivals make it an exceptional travel destination. With a growing tourism industry and strategic initiatives to promote international engagement, Bhutan is poised to continue its path of economic development and cultural preservation. As it welcomes visitors from all over the world, Bhutan is a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.