As the Snowman Race ended with the runners hitting the finish line in Bumthang, no one could have brought the significance of the race home so simply and succinctly as Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen did.

The race was no ordinary race; the runners were no common runners themselves.

The question being asked still, among the less aware and educated Bhutanese is: why the race? Their ignorance, perhaps even their innocence, is understandable. But the world and the planet itself is changing so fast that there is a need for a better outlook, approach to development, and a shared vision for the planet’s future.




Driven by greed, unlimited exploitation of the earth’s finite resources, and flawed measures of economic growth, the world and humanity has come to the threshold of the end itself.

As a mountain country, Bhutan has had to face the devastating impact of climate change although it contributes nearly nothing to the dangerously destructive man-made phenomenon.

The big conclaves, meetings, and gatherings are losing respect because of political manipulations. There are self-professed leaders of the world who are trying to shape the world in their image.  What’s to be had in the end, anyway?

The world needs a new revolution, designed along the path of a sustainable future. That is what Bhutan is trying to do, unfortunately alone, because we still believe that  right policy decisions can make a difference.




So, to the runners, we have our biggest appreciation, prayers and good wishes. Especially to the international participants—you are the best ambassadors of the world who can redeem the state of humanity as it is today with a little nudge.

The time has come when world leaders should set aside their petty agendas and focus on global prosperity.

An international participant said: “We will come back to participate in the next Snowman Race.  Hospitality is great and people in the highlands welcomed us wholeheartedly,” said one. We must act now. Swift and significant change is needed at the global level.”




Bhutan has 567 glacial lakes, of which 17 are potentially dangerous.

As only Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen can bring us to the real, “This climate action conclave comes at a crucial time when global reform, shared commitment, and joint action are urgently needed to address the rapidly escalating climate crisis.”

Further, Her Majesty said: “Our hope is that all the participants, athletes, experts and climate champions will be able to share their experiences, their expertise and ideas for all of us to collectively join hands in our fight against climate change.”