Brief History
The history of the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH) dates back to the 1970s when it was initially built as Motithang Hotel to accommodate state guests during the coronation of the 4th Druk Gyalpo, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in 1974.
In 2002, the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) approved a feasibility study to establish a Hotel and Tourism Management Training Institute (HTMTI), which was subsequently established in 2003. As part of the tourism sector priorities in Bhutan’s Ninth and Tenth Five-Year Plans, the RGoB and the Federal Government of Austria signed a co-financing agreement in March 2005 for a project focused on infrastructure development and training. The project formally began in 2007, leading to the development of a state-of-the-art facility.
In 2010, the institute was renamed the Royal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH). On October 15, 2010, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, officially inaugurated the institute in the presence of Cabinet Ministers, Austrian delegates, foreign diplomats, and senior Bhutanese officials. RITH commenced its first academic session on August 2, 2010, with 50 students (25 male and 25 female) and became fully operational by 2011.
Located in Thimphu, Bhutan, RITH is a modern tourism and hotel management school offering a two-year diploma program for high school (Class XII) graduates. The program, which is jointly certified by RITH and Tourism Schools Salzburg, Austria, integrates theoretical learning with practical training in food production, restaurant services, reception, housekeeping, and tourism management. A three-month internship in the second year provides industry exposure. The core curriculum, developed in collaboration with ARGE Salzburg and RITH faculty, follows international standards while incorporating Bhutanese aspects and needs.
In addition to the diploma program, RITH offers short-term skill-based courses tailored to industry needs. Over the years, RITH has evolved into a national institution that plays a key role in strengthening Bhutan’s tourism and hospitality workforce. Additionally, RITH has been privileged to be involved in numerous national events held in the country.