Neten Dorji

Gyalpozhing—Rechanglu Recreational Park, just below the East-West highway, is rapidly gaining popularity among locals, attracting 3,035 visitors in the last three months.

The park, covering approximately five acres, is the only recreational facility in Mongar managed by the youth of Masangdaza village. It has been open to the public since June 6 of this year.

This park was handed over by the dzongkhag administration and the Department of Forest and Park Services to support local economic development and promote biodiversity conservation.

The zip line

Suspended beside the river, the captivating nature-based recreational park offers a thrilling experience as visitors step into its scenic surroundings.

In addition to the zip line, the park features various facilities such as trekking and cycling trails, a hot stone bath, a sky walk, tent and campfire areas, a cafeteria, picnic spots, restroom facilities, a children’s playground, and an open kitchen, designed to accommodate large groups staying overnight.

“We receive around 30 visitors on weekends, though there are fewer on weekdays,” said Rinzin Phuntsho, park manager. “Families enjoy spending quality time here, and the park is gradually gaining popularity within the local community.”

The park operates daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but campers can reserve the area for overnight stays. Entry fees are set at Nu 20 for Bhutanese nationals, Nu 10 for students, and Nu 50 for international tourists.

Rechanglu Recreational Park holds special significance for Mongar, beyond its function as a recreational facility. Bird-watching tourists traveling the Trans Bhutan Trail (TBT) from Latongla to Mongar can stop and spend the night at the park.

“At the park, we promote locally made products that are environmentally friendly,” said a forest official. “By offering a space for both children and the elderly, we also aim to nurture a sense of nature conservation.”

Rechanglu Recreational Park experiences extreme summer weather, with scorching sun, but offers more favorable conditions during the winter. In the colder months, visitors can also enjoy hot stone baths.

The park aims to attract international tourists with an interest in nature and holds great potential due to its rich birdlife and the presence of the Tawny fish owls.

“The park aims to stimulate local economic growth by promoting tourism and supporting local businesses, while keeping environmental conservation at the forefront,” said Mongar dzongdag, Lungten Jamstho. “Through these initiatives, we strive to create job opportunities that benefit both the community and the environment.”

He noted that the recreational park plays a vital role in offering a space for relaxation, not only for the local population but also for visitors from neighbouring dzongkhags.

The nature-based park promotes physical and social inclusion, providing children and young people with much-needed recreational areas.

Beyond recreation and leisure, the park serves as a venue for gatherings, meetings, and seminars. “People from various communities can come together at the park to celebrate birthdays and other events,” an official added.

The opening of Rechanglu Recreational Park was warmly welcomed by residents of urban areas like Mongar, Lingmethang, and Gyalpozhing.

Sangay Tenzin, a frequent visitor, enjoys spending time there with his family.

He mentioned that the park provides a valuable space for office-goers like him to spend weekends with their families. “Not many people are aware of the park today. Once it becomes well-known, this place will be packed,” he added.

Visitors have expressed that the recreational facility has brought a renewed sense of relaxation and rejuvenation to the community.

Another visitor, Norbu Wangdi, acknowledged that while the park is a blessing for Mongar residents, the access road needs improvement.

“It’s difficult for small cars to navigate because some sections are muddy and bumpy,” he said. “Improving the road would be essential, as more people will soon want to use the facility.”

A total budget of Nu 12.2 million from the UNDP/GEF Ecotourism Pr