Bhutan’s Department of Tourism has mandated that tourist accommodation across the country must be provided only by service providers approved and certified by the tourism authorities.
The department’s Standards and Compliance Division issued the notification on August 26, stating that all tourist night halts, including camping and outdoor stays, must take place at approved accommodation establishments or designated sites.
Overnight stays at non-certified premises, private properties and unauthorised open areas have been prohibited under the new directive. The move is understood to be in line with Bhutan’s Tourism Rules and Regulations (TRR) 2024.
According to tourism industry sources, the policy aims to strengthen visitor safety, promote authentic hospitality and ensure consistent quality standards across accommodation providers.
The notification also states that owners could face fines if properties intended for tourist accommodation are constructed or used to house visitors without obtaining the required approvals and completing the prescribed formalities. Certified establishments must also hold valid star-rating certificates and ensure timely renewal.
The move has been welcomed by tourism stakeholders in North Bengal, who regularly facilitate travel to Bhutan. Industry representatives believe stricter accommodation standards will improve tourist safety while enabling authorities to maintain consistent oversight of tourism facilities.
