Bhutan’s tourism industry has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with borders closed and travel restrictions imposed. However, as the world recovers from the pandemic, Bhutan is looking to safely reopen its borders and revive its tourism industry.
The Bhutanese government has announced plans to gradually reopen the country to international tourists in a phased manner. The first phase, which began in March 2021, allows fully vaccinated tourists to enter the country after undergoing a quarantine period. The government has also implemented strict health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of tourists and the local population.
Bhutan is known for its natural beauty, unique culture, and commitment to sustainable tourism. As such, the government is focusing on promoting domestic tourism and attracting responsible, high-value visitors. This includes initiatives to promote off-season travel, rural tourism, and eco-tourism.
Additionally, the Bhutanese government is working with the private sector and international organizations to develop new tourism products and services, such as adventure tourism, wellness tourism, and cultural tours. The government is also investing in infrastructure and capacity building to support the tourism industry.
Overall, while the pandemic has had a significant impact on Bhutan’s tourism industry, the country is working to safely reopen its borders and revive its economy. With its unique culture and natural beauty, Bhutan is well-positioned to attract responsible and high-value tourists in the post-COVID world.