Bhutan tightens rules to require certified tourist accommodation

Bhutan’s Department of Tourism announced on August 26 that only service providers approved and certified by the department may offer accommodation to tourists, tightening accommodation rules across the country. The new Bhutan Tourism Rules and Regulations (TRR) 2024 require all tourist night halts—including camping and outdoor stays—to be at accommodations or designated sites approved and certified by the Department of Tourism, prohibiting overnight stays at non‑certified premises, private properties, or unauthorised open areas. Property owners who build or house tourists in unapproved facilities face fines, and all approved establishments must display a valid star‑rating certificate that is renewed on time. The Sustainable Development Fee remains at $100 per night for international tourists, while Indian travellers pay ₹1,200 per night; children under five are exempt and those aged 6‑12 receive a 50 % discount. Tanmoy Goswami, general secretary of the Himalayan Hospitality & Tourism Development Network, said the rules “will help in providing safe accommodations to tourists.”

KEY DETAILS:

• The notification was issued by the Standards and Compliance Division of the Department of Tourism.
• The rules apply to every form of tourist night halt, including camping and outdoor stays.
• The star‑rating certificate must be kept current and renewed on schedule by each certified accommodation.

TRADE CONTEXT: Industry stakeholders expect the tightened rules to improve safety and quality for tourism operators in Bhutan.

FAQ

What penalty does a property owner face for providing non‑certified tourist accommodation?

Owners will be fined if they build accommodation for tourists without prior approval or house tourists in such unapproved facilities.

How does the Sustainable Development Fee differ for Indian tourists compared with other international visitors?

Indian travellers pay ₹1,200 per individual per night, whereas other international tourists pay $100 per night.

Are children exempt from the Sustainable Development Fee, and what discount applies to those aged 6‑12?

Children under five years of age are exempt, and children aged 6‑12 receive a 50 % discount on the fee.

Read Original Article.