TBM Staff - Mumbai
Thomas Cook (India) Limited and its group company SOTC Travel have announced the launch of special direct flights from Ahmedabad to Bhutan, set to begin in April 2025. This new initiative aims to fill a significant gap in travel connectivity, making it easier for Gujarati travellers to visit Bhutan without the need for connecting flights. Previously, travellers had to transit through Kolkata or Delhi, facing layovers and multiple check-ins. The new direct flights offer a smoother, more convenient travel experience.
The six-night itinerary for this new route is specially crafted to cater to Gujarati travellers, incorporating unique Bhutanese experiences alongside authentic Gujarati cuisine. Highlights of the trip include archery, a riverside lunch in Punakha, traditional Bhutanese attire, and cultural performances in Thimphu. Gujarati chefs will be stationed in Bhutan to ensure the availability of vegetarian and Jain food options, addressing the specific culinary preferences of the travellers. A Gujarati-speaking tour manager will accompany the group to ensure comfort throughout the journey.
Bhutan, known as the world’s first carbon-negative country, offers stunning natural landscapes, iconic monasteries, and a rich cultural heritage. The direct flights from Ahmedabad provide an opportunity for travelers to experience Bhutan’s serene beauty and vibrant traditions more easily. This initiative will strengthen Thomas Cook and SOTC’s leadership in the Indian outbound travel market and cater to the growing demand for travel to Bhutan, particularly from Gujarat.
Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head of Holidays, Thomas Cook India, expressed excitement over the direct flights, stating that this move aligns with the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. S.D. Nandakumar from SOTC Travel emphasised Bhutan’s appeal for the evolved Indian travellers, highlighting the company’s strategy to unlock growth potential in Gujarat through this new offering. The launch of the direct flights is expected to drive substantial growth from the region in 2025.
