Bhutan Unveils Ambitious Airport Project to Boost Tourism
Secret kingdom’s huge plan rocks the world
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Bhutan, a secluded Himalayan kingdom between China and India, plans to open the Gelephu International Airport by 2029 to enhance tourism and establish a new economic hub. This initiative marks a significant shift in the country's approach to tourism, which has been historically limited to preserve its culture and environment.
- 01Bhutan is constructing the Gelephu International Airport to boost tourism and economic development.
- 02The airport, set to open in 2029, aims to handle 1.3 million passengers annually by 2040.
- 03King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck emphasized the airport's importance for national security and economic growth.
- 04The project is part of the broader Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative, covering 2500 km².
- 05Tourist numbers in Bhutan have increased significantly, with a focus on maintaining cultural integrity.
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Bhutan, known for its isolation and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, is set to undergo a transformative change with the construction of the Gelephu International Airport. Announced by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the new airport will be located in Gelephu, close to the Indian border, and aims to establish the region as a key aviation hub. The airport is expected to open in 2029, with a capacity to handle 1.3 million passengers annually by 2040 and 5.5 million by 2065. This initiative is part of a larger plan to develop the Gelephu Mindfulness City, a 2500 km² special administrative region. The anticipated cost of the project is around Nu 20 billion (approximately AUD $292 million). Historically, Bhutan has limited tourism to preserve its culture, but recent years have seen a significant increase in visitors, particularly from India, China, and the United States. The new airport is expected to make this remote kingdom more accessible while continuing to prioritize high-value, low-volume tourism.
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The new airport is expected to significantly increase tourist arrivals, boosting the local economy and creating new job opportunities in the tourism sector.
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