Bhutan Tourism Push: Bhutan International Travel Mart (BITM) 2026 in Thimphu pulled in 200+ international buyers from 15 countries, with the event set to help local operators shape new products and partnerships for higher-value arrivals. Land Border Upgrade: Phuentsholing’s immigration setup is being renovated and expanded after May congestion, with officials saying the May 24 surge (2,149 entries) stressed counters more than staffing gaps. Regional Payments for Travelers: India and Nepal’s UPI–NPI linkage is now live for instant cross-border remittances, making it easier for travelers and businesses to move money without cash or currency hassles. Tourism Funding Watch: Parliament questioned slow tourism spending under the 13th Five-Year Plan, pointing to low utilisation and concerns over basic visitor infrastructure like toilets and parking. Cultural & Pilgrimage Link: UP and Bhutan signed a lease for a Bhutanese temple and pilgrim guest house near Sarnath in Varanasi, aiming to deepen Buddhist tourism ties. Travel Safety Planning: Bhutan is preparing evacuation plans for 7,786 nationals in GCC countries as the Middle East situation remains monitored.