‘Friendship Offer’ to Boost Arrival of Thai Tourists to Bhutan
Thai nationals and residents now have more reason to smile. With the launch of the ‘Bhutan-Thailand Friendship Offer’, they are entitled to 50% discount on airfare and hotel fees when visiting the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon.
The announcement of the offer was made on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the Kingdom of Bhutan’s His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on 21 February 2014. His Royal Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck launched the 'Friendship Offer' at the JW Marriott Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand while Prime Minister Lyonchhoen Tshering Tobgay made a parallel announcement in Thimphu.
The announcement also marks the 25th celebration of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
According to a statement issued by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, “Bhutan and Thailand enjoy strong ties of bilateral relations, built on a foundation of a shared spiritual heritage, respect for the institution of monarchy, and reverence for culture and traditions.”
Under the ‘Bhutan-Thailand Friendship Offer’, Thai tourists will enjoy 50% discount on airfare from DrukAir. Special airport reception arrangement will likewise be given upon their arrival.
The offer is valid for Thai nationals and those with proof of residency in Thailand who is booking their trip to Bhutan through licensed tour operators. The trip must be made from 1 June to 31 August 2014.
As a bonus, tourists visiting Bhutan during that period can experience a wide array of festivals that offer valuable insights into the true essence of age-old Bhutanese traditions. Among these are:
Nimalung Festival (5-7 June)
Held at the Nimalung Lhakhang in Bumthang (Central Bhutan), the festival's highlight is the display of an awe-inspiring Thongdrol (gigantic scroll painting) of Guru Rinpoche. It is said that those who look upon it will have his/her sins cleansed. Colourful mask dances are also showcased in the festival.
Haa Summer Festival (5-7 July)
Set in Haa's high alpine valleys and pristine lakes, this festival is a lively celebration of Bhutan's nomadic herders. Immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind experience by playing traditional sports, sampling delicious home-cooked cuisine and enjoying local songs and dances, while imbibing the heady local liquor.
Matsutake Festival (23-24 August)
Taking place in the picturesque Ura valley, the Matsutake Festival offers a wonderful authentic experience into rural Bhutanese life. Visitors will embark on mushroom picking excursions around verdant forests and hills to identify Matsutake, fabled mushrooms that are prized for their exquisite flavor and aroma. They will also sample Matsutake recipes, engage in songs and dancers together with the locals and relax in traditional open-air mineral baths.
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BANGKOK TO BHUTAN (BKK-PBH FARES ONLY) |
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Business Class |
USD 475 + taxes $80 (usual is USD 1050) |
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Economy Class |
USD 555 + taxes $80 (usual is USD 1300) |
Terms & Conditions
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Valid for travel from 1st January 2014 to 31st August 2014.
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Valid for for both Business & Economy class on return basis only.
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Return Journey must be completed before 31st August 2014.
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Fare/ticket validity: 1 Month from date of travel.
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Other conditions applicable.
