Bhutan's tourism surge over visa-free travel for three countries including BD

Dhaka : The Kingdom of Bhutan is witnessing a surge in tourist arrivals, thanks to its visa-free travel programme for citizens of Bangladesh, India and the Maldives. The initiative aims to attract more visitors and boost the kingdom's tourism industry.

Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom on the eastern edge of the Himalayas, is renowned for its monasteries, fortresses and dramatic landscapes, ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. Peaks like the 7,326m 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 notably the third busiest month since the country's reopening, with 14,822 arrivals. Over the past eight months, the top ten tourist arrivals have come from countries such as India, the United States, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Vietnam and others.

At the end of 2023, Bhutan's GDP was estimated at USD 11 billion in purchasing power parity terms.

Paro International Airport, Bhutan's main gateway, handles approximately 300,000 outbound passengers annually. This traffic highlights the airport's crucial role in connecting Bhutan with major international destinations and supporting the country's tourism industry.

Paro, home to Bhutan's only international airport, is renowned for its serene environment, rich cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks such as the Tiger's Nest Monastery. Visitors are drawn to its blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, offers a fascinating mix of traditional and modern attractions, including the majestic Tashichho Dzong and the bustling Thimphu Market. The city's unique charm lies in its harmonious blend of old and new.