In a bold tourism reform, Bhutan has introduced a special eco-tourism visa that allows travelers to stay in remote villages, promoting rural income and sustainable tourism. The program is aimed at reducing pressure on major destinations like Thimphu and Paro.
The visa allows extended stays of up to 30 days, encouraging deeper cultural exchange and local economic growth. It also aligns with Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Volume” tourism strategy.
With eco-tourism gaining traction in Sikkim, Northeast India, and Nepal, Bhutan’s model could inspire broader regional efforts to balance conservation with tourism.