Many people, including our Globe Aware volunteers, know Bhutan as one of the happiest places on earth. But here’s a fun twist: Ed Sheeran is set to perform at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu on January 25, making it Bhutan’s first-ever international concert! Imagine being on a volunteer vacation and catching this show—it would be unforgettable!

This superstar is set to hold Bhutan’s first ever international concert in 2025

His “+ – = × ÷ (Mathematics) Tour” will also stop by India and the Middle East

By Cheryl Sekkappan
December 2, 2024
TimeOut

Most people know Bhutan as one of the happiest places on earth. Yet others will think of its dramatic Himalayan landscapes, spectacular dzongs (fortress monasteries), and distinctive traditional attire. Now, there’s a new and unlikely association: Ed Sheeran.

On January 25 next year, the superstar will wield his guitar onstage at Changlimithang Stadium in the country’s capital, Thimphu, as part of his “+ – = × ÷ (Mathematics) Tour”. This is unprecedented for Bhutan, as it’s never hosted an international concert before.

The good news is that tickets are going for as low as USD10 – in line with Ed Sheeran’s commitment to making his concerts accessible for all fans. Higher ticket tiers go for USD 31, USD 51, USD 71, and USD 101. General ticket sales start on November 30, 2024, at 12 noon Bhutan Standard Time at www.tix.bt.

Here’s the tricky part – international visitors have to pay Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). It comes in at USD 100 per day and goes towards Bhutan’s environmental conservation and community development initiatives. Think of it this way: you’d be doing a bit of good for one of the most unique places in the world. Plus, it’s hard to pass up the opportunity to catch Ed crooning “Perfect” against a backdrop of misty mountains.

As always, check whether you need a visa to enter Bhutan. Thankfully, you can easily apply for one online at a fee of USD 40 and get it approved within five working days.

If Bhutan’s off the cards for you, you’ll be glad to know that Ed Sheeran will be moving on to India and the Middle East for the rest of the tour. Visit his official website to find out when and how to get tickets.

Here are Ed Sheeran’s 2025 tour dates:

• January 24: Thimphu, Bhutan, Changlimithang Stadium
• January 30: Pune, India, Yash Lawns
• February 2: Hyderabad, India, Ramoji Film City
• February 5: Chennai, India, YMCA Ground
• February 8: Bengaluru, India, NICE Grounds
• February 12: Shillong, India, JN Stadium
• February 15: Delhi NCR, India, Leisure Valley Ground
• April 30: Doha, Qatar, Lusail Multipurpose Hall
• May 2: Sakhir, Bahrain, Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre