Bhutan Believe: Understanding Bhutan’s Tourism Policy and the Meaning Behind High Value, Low Volume Travel

What Does “Bhutan Believe” Mean?

The “Believe” brand is Bhutan’s national call to action—both to its citizens and to the world.

It asks us to believe in:

• A future guided by Gross National Happiness (GNH)

• Development that protects culture, community, and environment

• Progress measured by well-being, not just GDP

Rooted in GNH, Bhutan’s development philosophy prioritizes:

• Mental and emotional well-being

• Environmental conservation

• Cultural preservation

• Good governance and social equity

For visitors, this belief translates into a travel experience that is mindful, immersive, and deeply respectful of local life.

Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Volume” Tourism Policy Explained

Bhutan’s tourism policy is globally recognized for its High Value, Low Volume approach. Unlike mass-tourism destinations, Bhutan carefully manages visitor numbers to ensure quality experiences while safeguarding its fragile ecosystem and living traditions.

The cornerstone of this policy is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).

What Is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily fee paid by international tourists visiting Bhutan. It is not a luxury tax—it is a direct investment into Bhutan’s future.

Current SDF Structure

• USD 100 per person per night for most international visitors

• (Reduced from USD 200 as a strategic measure to revive tourism)

• Policy currently applicable until August 31, 2027, subject to review

Where Does the SDF Go?

Every dollar of the SDF contributes directly to Bhutan’s national priorities:

Environmental Conservation

• Protection of forests and biodiversity

• Maintaining Bhutan’s carbon-negative status

• Preservation of pristine landscapes

Social Welfare

• Free healthcare for citizens

• Free education and youth development programs

Culture & Infrastructure

• Conservation of monasteries, dzongs, and heritage sites

• Support for traditional arts, festivals, and local communities

When you travel to Bhutan, you are not just a visitor—you are a contributor.

Why Bhutan Chose Quality Over Quantity

Bhutan deliberately attracts travelers who are:

• Mindful and respectful

• Curious about culture and spirituality

• Interested in authentic experiences, not mass entertainment

This ensures:

• Less environmental strain

• Higher service quality

• Meaningful cultural exchange

• Sustainable livelihoods for Bhutanese communities

The result is a destination that remains unspoiled, deeply spiritual, and profoundly human.

What This Means for Travelers

Traveling to Bhutan under this policy means:

• Fewer crowds, more meaningful interactions

• Personalized and well-curated journeys

• Access to living culture, not staged performances

• Travel aligned with ethical and sustainable values

You experience Bhutan as it is lived, not as it is marketed.

Dhungkar Tour: Bringing the “Believe” Philosophy to Life

At Dhungkar Tour, we design journeys that reflect the true spirit of Bhutan Believe.

Our tours focus on:

• Cultural immersion and village life

• Spiritual journeys and sacred sites

• Farm stays and local cuisine

• Wellness experiences like traditional hot stone baths (Menchu)

• Slow, mindful travel aligned with GNH values

Every itinerary is thoughtfully curated to ensure your visit benefits both you and Bhutan.

Why Bhutan Is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Bhutan does not try to compete with the world. It chooses to protect what matters.

By believing in sustainability, happiness, and authenticity, Bhutan offers travelers something increasingly rare—a destination with a soul.

When you visit Bhutan, you do not simply see the country.
You believe in its way of life.

Plan Your Journey with Dhungkar Tour

If you are seeking a travel experience that is:

• Ethical

• Meaningful

• Culturally rich

• Environmentally responsible

Bhutan is calling.

Believe in Bhutan. Travel with Dhungkar Tour.