Bhutan has made a significant decision that is set to delight tourists from around the globe. Effective immediately, the Kingdom of Bhutan has officially waived its mandatory travel insurance policy, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s tourism landscape.
Previously, travelers venturing into the mystical realms of Bhutan were required to secure comprehensive travel insurance, covering a spectrum of eventualities including medical emergencies and accidents. This policy was instated as part of Bhutan’s Tourism Rules and Regulations of 2022, a response to the uncertainties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, in a recent announcement dated April 23, 2024, the Department of Tourism Bhutan has heralded a new era by revoking this mandatory insurance requirement. The decision comes as Bhutan seeks to facilitate smoother visa processing and promote a more seamless travel experience for all who wish to explore its enchanting landscapes and immerse themselves in its rich cultural tapestry.
While travel insurance is no longer a prerequisite for obtaining a visa to Bhutan, authorities urge visitors to exercise caution and consider securing coverage as a precautionary measure, particularly for medical emergencies during international travel. This shift in policy grants tourists the freedom to choose whether to invest in insurance tailored to their travel needs.
Bhutan’s eastern border town of Samdrup Jongkhar is now officially open to international tourists, offering a new gateway to one of the most serene destinations in the world.
International tourists can now finally enter and exit from the eastern border town of Samdrupjongkhar, following the official inauguration of the much-awaited Darranga Immigration Check Post (ICP) in Assam, India.
With this, Bhutan now has two land-based entry and exit points for tourists.
The Darranga ICP, which will operate 24/7, will facilitate entry and exit of third-country nationals through the Bhutan-India border. The entry and exit point is expected to boost tourism in the eastern regions of the country.
The border town of Samdrupjongkhar is a gateway to major towns of eastern Bhutan—Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, Mongar, Lhuentse, and Pemagatshel. These locations, although less explored, are renowned for their unique culture, natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
Eastern Bhutan is home to some of the country’s most spiritually significant sites. Visitors can explore places like Yongla Goemba in Pemagatshel, Chorten Kora, Gomphu Kora and Omba Ney (Taktshang of eastern Bhutan) in Trashiyangtse, a renowned pilgrimage site, and the 154-foot bronze statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Takila, Lhuentse.
These destinations offer an opportunity to immerse in Bhutan’s rich cultural traditions, set against some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.
Eastern Bhutan offers breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, exquisite textiles, traditional food, and warm hospitality.
Bhutan is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique opportunities. “The addition of a new entry and exit point will give visitors more options to explore different parts of Bhutan throughout the year.”
