Recently, members of Travel Agents Association were perhaps misinformed about a possible attempt by the Bhutanese government to restrict annual visitors by 5,000. I also got surprised with this news. However, now Karma Phuntsho, the first secretary to the Bhutan Embassy in Bangkok, has come forward and stated that it was just a baseless rumor. I am quoting from a report of Bangkok Post:
Bhutanese embassies and missions abroad do not issue entry visas. All visa applications must reach Bhutan at least seven days prior to the intended arrival date. Then, on entry to Bhutan, a visa stamp is issued on receipt of a $20 fee.
In line with the country's ''high value, low volume'' tourism policy, the Bhutanese government has imposed a daily tariff for international visitors of $165 in the low season (January-February, June-August and December) and $200 in the high season (March through May and September-November).
The tariff covers a package that includes all internal taxes and charges including accommodation, meals, licensed guides, internal transport, camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours, explained Mr Phuntsho."
Thus, in the end, I am happy to write that Bhutanese government is not going to limit the number of tourists in the country.
now a days tourism is a great source of income for many countries.Thailand and Malayasia are two best examples in asia
Poor but beautiful countries like Bhutan and Bangladesh can follow their steps and better their economic condition by fascilitating tourism.As a bangladeshi i want to invite people from all over the world to visit Bangladesh. they wont regret as my country has so many things to offer like the longest natural sea shore,the largest mangrove forest ,in a word almost the whole bangladesh is naturally beautiful with serene villages and so many rivers, the historic sites,some of them are among world heritage, the people with their simplicity and hospitability will win visitors heart. i think this kind of tourism news should be highlighted more to make the world people come closer by visiting the less trodden countries
Posted by: Anonymous | June 25, 2006 7:48 AM | Permalink to Comment