A wellness session during the Thailand–Bhutan familiarisation trip. (TAT Newsroom)
Thailand and Bhutan have reinforced their tourism partnership through a series of reciprocal familiarisation trips held in May 2026, as part of the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative aimed at promoting high-value and sustainable travel.
The programme, organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Bhutan’s Department of Tourism (DOT), builds on an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and focuses on wellness tourism, community-based experiences, cultural exchange and environmentally responsible travel.
The first exchange took place from May 3 to 7 when Thai tour operators and media representatives travelled to Bhutan and explored destinations including Thimphu, Paro and Punakha. The visit showcased both established attractions and lesser-known experiences, encouraging the development of premium travel products for the Thai market.
Participants visited some of Bhutan’s most recognised landmarks, including Taktsang Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma and the National Museum of Bhutan. The itinerary also incorporated wellness-focused activities such as meditation and yoga, alongside river rafting and traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
A networking event hosted by the DOT brought together tourism stakeholders, airlines, tour operators, guides and hospitality representatives to discuss future collaboration and market opportunities.
Later in the month, from May 22 to 25, a Bhutanese delegation comprising media representatives, influencers and tourism officials visited Thailand’s southern province of Krabi. The programme highlighted TAT’s sustainable tourism model through visits to community-based tourism projects, wellness facilities, and marine ecotourism attractions.
Delegates experienced local cultural activities on Ko Klang, explored mangrove ecosystems in Ko Lanta and visited award-winning wellness destinations including Wareerak Hot Spring and Wellness. Traditional long-tail boat excursions around Krabi’s Andaman coastline also formed part of the itinerary.
The exchanges underline growing tourism links between the two countries. Thailand welcomed more than 29,000 visitors from Bhutan in 2025, a rise of nearly 35% compared with the previous year, while regular air services continue to support increasing travel demand in both directions.
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