The country received more tourists in September this year than in the same month last year. According to the Department of Tourism’s (DoT) monthly tourism bulletin, tourist arrivals last month increased by more than 28 per cent compared to September last year. Revenue collected from the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) also rose by over 22 per cent compared to the same period last year.
More than 26,000 tourists visited Bhutan in September this year, up from nearly 20,300 visitors in the same month last year.
Dawa Yangchen, Marketing Manager and Media Focal, DoT, attributed the increase to His Majesty The King’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City and Project 108.
“The increase in tourist arrivals can be attributed to His Majesty’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City and Project 108. These projects have helped make Bhutan a popular tourist destination. Another factor is the efforts of the Department of Tourism and private-sector stakeholders, including tour operators, guides and other tourism service providers, in promoting targeted marketing and offering diverse experiences for tourists.”
SDF revenue from both Indian tourists and dollar-paying visitors also increased during the period.
“Indian tourists contributed more than Nu 39 M in SDF revenue in September last year. This increased to more than Nu 69 M in September this year. Meanwhile, tourists from dollar-paying countries contributed Nu 325 M in SDF revenue in September last year. This year, the revenue increased to more than Nu 378 M, alongside the rise in tourist arrivals,” Dawa Yangchen said.
As visitor numbers rise, accommodation and tourism services remain important players in the sector.
By the end of September, Bhutan had 552 DoT-certified accommodation establishments, including 199 village homestays.
The number of registered tour guides also increased to over 3,500, including 52 newly registered in September.
The department also registered 28 more tour operators by the end of last month, bringing the total to 1,774.
Kelzang Chhophyel
Edited by Phub Gyem
