Traveling to Bhutan Becomes More Convenient as Government Removes Mandatory Travel Insurance Requirement

Bhutan, known for its stunning landscapes and unique cultural heritage, has recently made significant changes to its tourism policies in an effort to attract more visitors. The most notable change is the decision to no longer require travelers to present travel insurance along with their visa application.

This new policy, introduced on April 23, 2024, by Bhutan authorities, aims to make travel more accessible for tourists. While the mandatory requirement of travel insurance has been withdrawn, the Department of Tourism still recommends that visitors have it as a precautionary measure in case of unforeseen emergencies.

In addition to the removal of the travel insurance requirement, the Bhutanese government has also reduced the tourist daily fee from $200 to $100, effective until August 2027. These measures are part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and help the industry recover from the impact of COVID-19.

The efforts seem to be paying off, as Bhutan welcomed a record number of over 25,000 tourists in the first quarter of 2024. This represents a significant increase compared to the same period in 2023, with the busiest month being March 2024, which saw nearly 15,000 arrivals.

According to Carissa Nimah, Chief Marketing Officer of the Department of Tourism, the growth in tourist figures can be attributed to the reduced daily fee and increased global awareness about Bhutan. The country has also expanded its tourism efforts in new global markets, and authorities are optimistic about a strong tourism year in 2024.

Overall, these changes are expected to make Bhutan an even more attractive destination for travelers looking to experience its rich culture and breathtaking scenery.