THIMPHU, March 10 (Xinhua) -- Bhutan was awarded the Sustainable Destinations' Earth Award at the International Tourismus-Borse Berlin, Germany, this week. This was Bhutan's first win at the world's leading travel trade show.

The award was in recognition of Bhutan's commitment to responsible tourism and preservation of nature. Bhutan's approach to tourism development and management is also in line with its philosophy Gross National Happiness.

The destinations were recognized and chosen by Green Destinations - an agency recognizing destinations around the world for championing sustainability in terms of nature and culture.

For the first time, Bhutan has made it to top three finalists among 100 tourist destinations, including Spain and Iceland. More than 28 tour agencies and officials from the Tourism Council of Bhutan attended the award event.