Tourism has been strictly limited in Bhutan so that traditional culture can be preserved and nurtured. The tourism industry in Bhutan is founded on the principle of sustainability, meaning that tourism must be environmentally and ecologically friendly, socially and culturally acceptable, and also economically viable. For these reasons, tourism is carefully monitored and the number of tourists visiting Bhutan is kept to an environmentally manageable level. All tourists are required to make their travel arrangements for both tours & treks through an authorized tour operator on a pre-planned, pre-paid and guided package. Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan. The tour operator is responsible for all land arrangements during your stay in Bhutan including in-country travel/road permits, temple permits and special permits.