BHUTAN TOURISM POLICY GUIDELINES:
The Royal Government of Bhutan recognizes that tourism is worldwide phenomenon and an important means of achieving socio – economic development particularly counties like Bhutan. It also recognizes that tourism, in affording the opportunity to travel, can help promoting understanding among peoples and building closer ties of friendship based on appreciation and respect for different cultures and lifestyles.
There are, however, problems associated with tourism which, if not controlled, can have devastating and irreversible impact on the local environment, culture and identity of the people. Realizing these problems and the fact that the resources on which tourism is based are limited, the Royal government of Bhutan recognizes the need to develop the Bhutanese tourism industry based on the principles of sustainability, which means it must be environmentally and economically viable.
Towards achieving this objective, the Royal Government, since inception of tourism in the year 1974, has adopted a very cautious approach to growth and development of the tourism industry in Bhutan. In order to minimize the problems, the number of tourists has been maintain at a manageable level and this control on number is exercised through a policy of Government regulated tourist tariff "high value low volume".
The tour package includes airport transfers, accommodation on a twin sharing basis, all meals, Land transport within Bhutan, Sightseeing, tour guide, museum fees. Pack and riding ponies applicable.
Daily SDF
All visitors to Bhutan are required to pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 for the duration of their stay, in addition to a one-time visa fee of USD 40.
Travelers visiting Bhutan on invitation visas, FAM trips, MICE programs, or as personal guests are exempt from the daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) but are still required to pay the one-time visa fee.
Due to weather conditions and reasons beyond our control, changes to itinerary may occur, for which Bhutan Footprints Travel accepts no responsibility.
Discounts
Those between the ages of 6 to 12 years accompanied by elders/guardians shall be given a 50% discount.
Delayed Arrival/Departure
There will be no charge for the number of days of delay in arrival/departure of visitor due to weather conditions, Druk Air problems or roadblocks.
Cancellation charges
Tour programs booked and subsequently cancelled are subjected to a cancellation charge as follows.
- Within 21 days 10% of the rate
- Within 14 days 15% of the rate
- Within 7 days 30% of the rate
- Less than 7 days 50% of the rate
- After arrival in Bhutan 100%
Insurance
There is no personal insurance of any kind included in the tour price, so Travel insurance should be obtained from your place of residence in advance of your trip. Travel agents in Bhutan will not hold any liability for illness, injury or death sustained during your trip.
Payment Procedure.
All the tour payments must be made in advance of departure. Payment should be deposited through the Bhutan National Bank account abroad payable in favor of Travel Agent name in Bhutan. Once your travel is confirm the agent in Bhutan will provide you with the account number.
Bills/Tips.
Bar bills, Laundry bills, Tips for the Guides and drivers are not included or if on a trek, for Trekking cook, assistance troupes and horseman.