Zhemgang aims to attract 10,000 tourists by 2029 and double that figure by 2034

Lhakpa Quendren

Zhemgang—Branded as the ecotourism capital of the country, owing to its rich biodiversity, Zhemgang dzongkhag administration is ramping up efforts to enhance its infrastructure and amenities to attract more visitors and unlock its full ecotourism potential.

The dzongkhag has rolled out high-end, community-based ecotourism initiatives, including roadside cafes in Wangdigang and Tingtibi, the Berti White-bellied Heron Eco-Lodge, birding trails, and the beautification of the iconic twin waterfall along the Tingtibi-Panbang highway.

While just 332 tourists visited the dzongkhag in 2018 and 346 in 2019, Zhemgang has set ambitious goals to attract 10,000 tourists by 2029 and double that figure by 2034.

These goals will be achieved through quality tourism infrastructure and unique ecotourism products that benefit local communities and the environment.

Zhemgang Dzongda Kesang Jigme said that the dzongkhag administration is addressing infrastructure challenges to unlock its ecotourism potential. “We are just starting to enhance the visibility of Zhemgang. In the long run, this will attract potential investors in the development of tourism-related services,” he said.

The dzongkhag administration has also launched a dedicated tourism website to provide comprehensive information to prospective visitors.

Planned developments include improving road access and expanding accommodation options to cater to domestic, regional, and international tourists.

The dzongkhag’s tourism development strategy focuses on its unique value propositions, such as waterfalls, rafting services, fly-fishing, and accommodation options like homestays, eco-lodges, and open campsites.

Given its proximity to Gelephu, Kesang Jigme said that Zhemgang could become a weekend getaway for the Gelephu Mindfulness City. “We consider Zhemgang the northern gateway of GMC to central and eastern Bhutan. The road issues will be resolved once the highway widening between Gelephu and Trongsa is completed,” he said.

While the dzongkhag currently lacks government-certified tourist-standard hotels, the Berti Eco-lodge provides high-end cabin accommodations with tent and open camping options.

The ecotourism concept for Zhemgang was started in 2009 to alleviate poverty, boost local incomes, and create jobs. However, its distant location from Paro International Airport and international entry and exit points, poor road conditions, underdeveloped infrastructure, and lack of promotion have stymied its ecotourism potential.

Good business for homestay

The rise in number of pilgrims visiting sacred sites such as Buli Moenmo Lake, Dungkar Nye, and Duenmang Tshachu (hot spring) has transformed once-quiet villages like Buli into thriving hubs for homestay businesses.

Buli now boasts 14 homestays, though only a few are certified by the Department of Tourism.

In the absence of hotels or resorts in the locality, homestays are the primary accommodation option for pilgrims who mostly visit on weekends, holidays, and during winter months.

This has increased earnings for homestays, shops, and farmers selling local produce.

Tshering Youden, 61, has expanded her homestay in Buli to accommodate up to 20 guests per night in six rooms.

Her homestay business, which generates over Nu 100,000 a year, is the main source of income for her family.

Homestay services are also expanding into remote villages like Khomshar and Berti, providing more options for tourists and creating new income streams for local communities.

Bardo’s Phulabi Tshogpa Phurba Lhamo, who runs the only homestay in her gewog, said that homestay business can provide a reliable long-term income. “As the gewog guesthouse is in poor condition, officials choose to stay at my homestay, although not many visitors come due to the remote location,” she said.

Eco-tourism destination

Zhemgang’s 94.7 percent forest cover and abundant wildlife, including 357 bird species and the critically endangered White-bellied Heron, make it a prime ecotourism destination.

Sacred sites and natural wonders, such as the twin waterfall and Duenmang Tshachu, further enhance its appeal.

The village of Buli, rich in legend and history, has become a key pilgrimage site, featuring attractions like Buli Tsho and Peling Lhakhang.

Buli Moenmo Lake

The improved facilities at Dungkar Nye, including a community hall and visitor centre, have also drawn more visitors.

Trong Heritage Village, recognised as a heritage site in 2014, offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s cultural past, while Panbang provides adventure seekers with thrilling rafting experiences and natural ecosystems.

Trong Heritage Village

The seven improved birding trails offer birdwatchers abundant opportunities to explore a variety of species and enjoy the region’s rich biodiversity.

Dzongrab Tika Ram Gurung said that the dzongkhag administration plans to develop additional facilities to engage tourists for up to two weeks.

“We are focusing on ecotourism, as Zhemgang has many attractions, including the nearby Korphu Nye,” he said. “Ecotourism has great potential.”

Trong Mangmi Dorji Wangchuk said the Bhutan Bird Festival has economically benefited the community. “Previously, there were no hotels, but now Berti has a tourist-standard eco-lodge, and homestay services are expanding,” he added. “If road connectivity improves, Zhemgang could become a tourism hotspot.”