December 27, 2009: A three-day fair on a modest scale organized by the Bhutan Consulate Office in Kolkata, India, to mainly exhibit Bhutan as an alternative holiday destination finally drew to an end on December 19.

The Bhutan Fruit and Tourism Fair was hosted at the Bhutan House, Dum Dum, starting December 17, which not only marked the auspicious occasion of the National Day of the Bhutan, but also coincided the day of the formal opening ceremony of the Consulate Office in Kolkata.

Bhutan has been receiving a substantive number of Indian visitors over the years, and it is hoped that aftermath of the fair would further create awareness to the wider sections of the society and help augment the number of visitors visiting Bhutan.

Numerous reasons why it makes Bhutan a perfectly alternative holiday destination for Indian visitors were also explained.

The spectacular scenery, according to the press release, offers the visitors not only the experience in the country’s pristine environment, but also the opportunity to experience its living culture and tradition.

Adding to the zeal and enthusiasm amongst visitors is the recent listing of the National Geographic Adventure which placed Bhutan as one of the top adventure destination in 2010. 

The easier accessibility and well-connectivity between Bhutan and India is another advantage that Indian visitors to Bhutan can always avail off. The national airline, Druk Air, offers 18 weekly flights from New Delhi, Kolkata and Bagdora into Paro International Airport and also seasonal flights to Bodhgaya.

Another reason making it easier for Indian visitors to experience first-hand Bhutanese beauty, culture and hospitality is the avoidance of unnecessary hassle of having to procure a visa to enter the country.

Unlike international visitors, Indian nationalities do not require a visa and visitor's permit can be obtained at the immigration office upon showing one’s passport, ID card or voter registration card, states the press release.

The Director General, Tourism Council of Bhutan, led the delegation for the fair from Tourism Council of Bhutan along with other stakeholders comprising participants from Hotels and Tour operators.

The Council aims to promote Bhutan to the Indian market as an exclusive high end market, given the proximity to Bhutan and the visa-free regime between the countries.