Bhutan, the land of happiness, is a small country nestled in the eastern Himalayas. It is known for its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and commitment to preserving its environment and traditional way of life.
However, many people wonder if Bhutan limits tourism. In this article, we will explore this question and shed some light on the country’s approach to tourism.
Why Does Bhutan Limit Tourism?
Bhutan has a unique approach to tourism that is rooted in its belief in Gross National Happiness (GNH). GNH is a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and good governance. As a result, Bhutan has adopted a high-value, low-impact tourism policy that limits the number of tourists who can visit each year.
How Does Bhutan Limit Tourism?
To limit tourism in Bhutan, the government requires all visitors to obtain a visa before traveling to the country. In addition to this visa requirement, Bhutan also charges a daily fee for tourists. This fee covers accommodation, meals, transportation within the country, and an official tour guide.
The daily fee varies depending on the time of year and the level of luxury you choose. The minimum daily fee for tourists during peak season (March-May and September-November) is $250 per person per day. During off-season months (December-February and June-August), the minimum daily fee drops to $200 per person per day.
What Are the Benefits of Limiting Tourism?
Limiting tourism has several benefits for Bhutan:
Cultural Preservation: Limiting tourist numbers helps preserve Bhutan’s unique culture by reducing the impact of outside influences.
Environmental Conservation: By limiting tourist numbers and charging fees that support conservation efforts, Bhutan can better protect its environment and wildlife.
Sustainable Development: The high-value, low-impact tourism policy helps promote sustainable development in Bhutan by ensuring that tourism benefits local communities and does not harm the environment.
Can Anyone Visit Bhutan?
Yes, anyone can visit Bhutan as long as they obtain a visa and pay the daily fee. However, it is important to note that the visa application process is not as simple as it is for other countries. Visitors must apply through a tour operator or travel agent who will handle the visa application process on their behalf.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bhutan does limit tourism through its high-value, low-impact tourism policy. This policy is rooted in the country’s commitment to Gross National Happiness and its desire to preserve its unique culture, environment, and way of life. While this policy may make it more difficult for some tourists to visit Bhutan, it ensures that those who do visit have a meaningful and sustainable experience that benefits both the country and its people.