Phuentshogling Food Push: A new BCCI-backed initiative is training 15 chefs and compiling recipes into a cookbook, aiming to bring authentic Bhutanese vegetarian dishes back to hotel and restaurant menus—so visitors get more than the usual ema datshi. Tourism Numbers Up: Bhutan welcomed 25,195 international tourists in June 2026, up about 118.6% year-on-year, with Indians still the biggest share but non-Indian arrivals holding steady; average stay was 5.76 days. Visa Clarity for Travelers: Bhutan has published its 2026 visa-free entry list—only India, Bangladesh and Maldives citizens can enter and stay without a visa in advance—while other nationalities need visas. Big Sports on the Calendar: Bhutan will host the 2027 World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships in Thimphu, with preparations already underway at the Royal Institute of Management. Gelephu Mindfulness City & Youth Exodus: A new report highlights Bhutan’s push to tackle youth outmigration through the Gelephu Mindfulness City concept, blending economic opportunity with Bhutanese values. Thimphu Eco-Tourism Facility Gets Operator: The Geney Eco-Tourism Facility in Thimphu has finally been leased to a private operator after years of delay. Regional Travel Context (BIMSTEC): BIMSTEC leaders reiterated the group’s focus on non-political, practical cooperation—relevant for smoother regional connectivity that supports travel and tourism.