Celebrating 50 Years of Sustainable Tourism
National Day 117 receiveing award led by Director of Tourism, MoICE
In a momentous occasion coinciding with the 117th National Day, His Majesty the King conferred the prestigious Druk Thuksey (Heart Son of Bhutan) Medal upon Bhutan’s tourism industry. This extraordinary honor recognizes the sector’s immense contributions to the country’s development over the past five decades.
A Legacy of “High Value, Low Volume”
Since 1974, Bhutan has charted a unique path in tourism, prioritizing “High Value, Low Volume.” This visionary approach has ensured the preservation of Bhutan’s pristine environment and rich cultural heritage while generating economic benefits for its people.
His Majesty the King, in his address, praised the industry’s role in promoting Bhutan globally. He shared anecdotes of foreigners expressing their admiration for Bhutan and its warm hospitality, emphasizing the industry’s role in shaping positive perceptions of the country.
A Collective Achievement
The Druk Thuksey Medal is a testament to the collective efforts of everyone involved in Bhutan’s tourism sector, from tour operators and hoteliers to guides and artisans. It acknowledges their dedication to providing exceptional experiences for visitors while upholding the values of responsible tourism.
Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Department of Tourism, expressed gratitude for the recognition and dedicated the award to all Bhutanese citizens and international partners who contribute to the industry’s success. He emphasized the importance of tourism in serving Bhutan’s national interests, creating opportunities, and strengthening its sovereignty.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Brand Bhutan
This royal recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the tourism industry’s vital role in Bhutan’s future. As Bhutan continues to welcome visitors from around the world, the industry remains committed to sustainable practices and delivering exceptional experiences that showcase the best of Bhutanese culture and hospitality.
Key Takeaways:
- Bhutan’s tourism industry received the prestigious Druk Thuksey Medal from His Majesty the King.
- The award recognizes the industry’s 50 years of commitment to sustainable tourism and its contribution to national development.
- His Majesty the King praised the industry for promoting Bhutan globally and creating positive perceptions of the country.
- The Druk Thuksey Medal is a collective achievement for all Bhutanese involved in the tourism sector.
- The industry remains dedicated to strengthening “Brand Bhutan” and providing exceptional experiences for visitors.