Bhutan

This 'sustainable development fee' being levied by Bhutan is meant to 'mitigate negative impact of tourism on cultural landscape and natural environment' of ...

Due to this rise in the gap between international and regional tourists, the ambassador said Bhutan’s tourism became “low value, high volume” and the new fee was introduced. In 2012, following a study to “revamp the tourism industry”, Bhutan increased its minimum package for tourists to $250 (Rs 20,288) for international tourists. Under the new Tourism Levy Act of 2020, implemented this year, SDF has been increased from $65 (Rs 5,274) to $200 (Rs 16,230) for international tourists. “Tourism is one of the most important industries and foreign exchange earners of my country. Tourists from India, Bangladesh and Maldives will now have to pay a daily fee of Rs 1,200 during their stay. To mark the reopening of borders, an event was organised in New Delhi.