Bhutan seeks Himalayan rise in tourists

The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, which received 40,000 Indian tourists last year, has set

an ambitious target of one lakh inbound tourists in the next five years from India. It will focus

on attracting high-end luxury travellers from India.

It offers numerous attractions like biking, birding and rafting besides showcasing the

kingdom’s culture and heritage in the upper Himalayas. It offers a spectacular view of the

mountains, the lush green jungles, the ancient villages, majestic temples and monasteries

along the meandering high mountain passes.

The innumerable curves are a characteristic feature of the country. Known as the land of the

thunder dragon kingdom, Bhutan has retained its spiritual and mystical charm and offers eco

tourism activities. The country has high-end luxury hotels and resorts, and the new FDI policy

encourages more foreign investors to invest in hotels and resorts in the country.

As per the new FDI policy, 100 per cent FDI is permitted for setting up hotels and resorts in

Bhutan and it permits the investors to partner with local partners.

“The Taj Tashi and Aman Resorts are beneficiaries of this policy. Many locals are now

investing in the hospitality sector in the country,” a senior official of Bhutan said.

V. Namgyel, ambassador of Bhutan to India, asserts that air connectivity and capacity are the

biggest concerns while promoting Bhutan in India.

According to Ravi Nischal, general manager, Taj Tashi, the hotel has been experiencing 25

to 30 per cent increase in occupancy year-on-year ever since it opened in 2008. However,

Indians hardly account for five per cent of their client base.

“Bhutan is a good summer getaway for Indian travellers. We have announced a special

package for the Indian market jointly with Druk Air to promote more travel from this market,”

he said.

Indian tourists pay in rupees, which are equivalent to the Bhutanese currency, the Ngultrum.

All foreign visitors to Bhutan, except those from India, pay a daily minimum tariff of between

$200 and $ 250. Sources said the Tourism Council of Bhutan is planning to re-brand the

kingdom as The Last Shangri-La a reference to a fictional Himalayan utopia.