Bhutan’s Department of Tourism has lifted the requirement for
visitors to take out travel insurance in a bid to streamline travel to
the country.
The mandatory requirement for travel insurance for guests visiting
Bhutan was introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic to cover unforeseen
emergencies including medical expenses relating to the pandemic.
However, the Bhutan Government suggests still taking insurance to cover any medical emergencies while travelling in the country.
All visitors still require a visa before travelling to Bhutan, except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives.
As part of the visa application process, visitors are required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee of US$100 per day per adult. Concessionary rates apply for children.
Bhutan is introducing more female guides, offering cultural
experiences, personalised tours, and trekking expeditions. The number of
female guides is now more than 100.
A Department of Tourism spokesperson says: “In a society where women
have always played a strong role, the rise of female guides is a
testament to Bhutan’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality in
the workforce.”
The number of female guides has increased by more than 25% since Bhutan reopened to tourism in September 2022.