Thomas Cook & SOTC announce exclusive charter flights to Bhutan, ET TravelWorld

India’s leading travel services companies, Thomas Cook (India) and SOTC Travel have announced the launch of exclusive charter flights to Paro, Bhutan from Bengaluru, commencing in April 2024. The strategic initiative comes in response to the burgeoning demand for Bhutan, which has seen a remarkable growth of 25 per cent compared to the previous year.

Responding to the travel needs of Southern India, the charter flights from Bengaluru will serve as a gateway, offering direct and exclusive access to Bhutan. With the southern region already contributing over 45 per cent to the companies’ business in Bhutan, this initiative aims to bridge the gap created by the lack of direct air connectivity.

All charter flights to Bhutan will be accompanied by expert tour managers from Bengaluru. This personalised touch aims to enhance the overall travel experience for each passenger.

Blue Ocean Strategy Unveiled
By strategically choosing Bengaluru as the departure point, the companies implement a Blue Ocean Strategy, addressing the cost and convenience challenges faced by travellers due to the absence of direct flights. The move aligns with the companies’ vision to enhance accessibility and cater to the growing demand for unique travel experiences.

Crafted to cater to a diverse audience, including multigenerational families, groups of friends, couples, honeymooners, and young travellers, the exclusive charter flights offer an array of group tours (GIT), individual travel (FIT), and ad-hoc group options.

Bhutan, renowned for its happiness quotient and distinction as the world’s first carbon-negative nation, will be unveiled to travellers through unique experiences. From visits to iconic monasteries like Taktsang Palphug to the thrill of archery lessons, hot stone therapy, and beer tasting with local snacks, the charter package promises an immersive and culturally rich exploration.For adventure enthusiasts, the charter offers an adrenaline-packed itinerary, including white-water rafting, kayaking, trekking to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and bird watching.

Sharing his thoughts, Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India), “Innovation is in our DNA, and the launch of our exclusive charters from Bengaluru is a smart strategy to leverage the growing interest towards the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan.”

Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel, mentioned, “Our newly launched charter departures to Bhutan with Bengaluru as the gateway offer our travellers from South India the benefits of ease and convenience.”