Bhutan named ‘best country to visit’ in 2020; surrounding areas to reap benefits

Lonely Planet, the internationally acclaimed travel guide book publisher has named Bhutan as the best country to visit in 2020. 

In its annual publication ‘Best in Travel 2020’ that highlights the top 10 countries, cities, regions and best value destinations among nearly 200 countries, the publication has kept Bhutan at the topmost position. 

Tourism Council of Bhutan’s (TCB) director-general Dorji Dradhul, says the high-value-low-volume tourism policy of the country has played a vital role in getting it to the top of Lonely Planet ranking. The new recognition is expected to significantly increase foreign tourist arrival (FTA) to Bhutan.  

Samrat Sanyal General Secretary of Himalayan Hospitality and Tourism Development Network said: “It will also bring a newer vista for us in the entire Eastern Himalayan region including Darjeeling, Sikkim or North-East India.”  

As per records, Bhutan receives around 0.15 million visitors a year, with nearly 50 thousand coming from non-SAARC countries. They are considered ‘foreign visitors’ who are required to pay $250 per head per day. Once the trip is over, the Government retains around $50 per head per day and transfers the rest to the tour operator. Tour operators consider this practice as highly effective because it generates direct Government revenue and also maintains a strong vigil on the quality of service.