𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬

…𝑮𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒖𝒑𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒎 𝒊𝒏 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒍𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔

By Kezang Choden

The Ministry of Economic Affairs presented a crucial report on the state of tourism in Bhutan in the parliament, revealing a significant imbalance in tourist distribution across the country. According to the findings, while the western region continues to dominate as the primary hub for visitors, the eastern, southern, and central regions have experienced much lower numbers of tourist arrivals. Recognizing this disparity, the government has pledged targeted measures to ensure the equitable distribution of tourism’s economic benefits across all regions.

One of the primary strategies to address this issue is the development and improvement of infrastructure. The government has highlighted the importance of enhancing transportation access to make these underexplored areas more connected. One such initiative includes the development of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Darranga in Assam, which will provide a seamless entry point for travellers into eastern Bhutan.

Additionally, Yonphula Airport in Trashigang is undergoing technological upgrades to improve its functionality and reliability. Moreover, plans are being explored for the establishment of new domestic airports in weather-friendly areas in eastern Bhutan. This effort seeks to further ease accessibility for travellers. Meanwhile, the upcoming Gelephu Airport in southern Bhutan is anticipated to significantly boost connectivity, encouraging more tourists to explore both the southern and eastern regions.

Efforts to enhance Bhutan’s road infrastructure are also being prioritized. Upgrades to highways and feeder roads are set to improve regional accessibility, supported by investments in roadside amenities such as restrooms and visitor information centers. Projects like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Ecotourism Project have already introduced improved signage at major tourist destinations, improving the visitor experience.

The GEF Ecotourism Project is focused on utilizing Bhutan’s rich cultural and natural assets to promote sustainable tourism. This initiative encompasses protected areas like Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as districts such as Lhuentse, Mongar, Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, and Zhemgang. Local communities are actively involved in identifying flagship attractions to foster tourism and community development.

Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Employment, explained the government’s strategic plan to expand river-based tourism as a key part of its diversification efforts. Eco-friendly lodges have already been established in areas such as Berti, Zhemgang, and Zalaphangma, Mongar, and are strategically positioned along river routes to attract adventure-seeking visitors.

The ministry has identified 22 river stretches suitable for rafting and kayaking activities. These adventure offerings are expected to attract both domestic and international visitors and represent a significant opportunity for the expansion of Bhutan’s adventure tourism sector. A technical study has been instrumental in identifying these sites, paving the way for new opportunities for economic growth.

Efforts to build local community capacity are a core component of these plans. Community members are undergoing training and certification programs to become skilled river guides and operators, ensuring that the economic benefits of river-based tourism remain with local communities. This approach fosters local employment while promoting sustainable and responsible management of river-based resources.

Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji emphasized that these efforts align with Bhutan’s broader goals of eco-friendly tourism and sustainable development, focusing on creating opportunities for underrepresented regions while minimizing ecological impact. These steps aim to position Bhutan as a more diverse, inclusive, and accessible destination for travellers worldwide.