𝐙𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐳𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐊𝐢𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐫-𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠-𝐆𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐄𝐜𝐨-𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦

…𝒆𝒇𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑲𝒊𝒌𝒉𝒂𝒓-𝑩𝒖𝒍𝒊 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈-𝑮𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒔 𝒂𝒊𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒆𝒄𝒐-𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑩𝒉𝒖𝒕𝒂𝒏’𝒔 𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒉 𝒃𝒊𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒆.

By Kezang Choden

Zhemgang Dzongkhag is making significant strides in unlocking its eco-tourism potential through the revival of ancient trails, with a focus on the Kikhar-Buli and Trong-Gompong routes. This initiative, in collaboration with local government leaders and the community, aims to offer unique eco-tourism experiences while enhancing local livelihoods and preserving the region’s rich natural heritage.

Located just three and a half hours by road from Gelephu, Zhemgang serves as a gateway to central and eastern Bhutan. The region’s dense forests, covering 94.45% of its land area-the highest among all dzongkhags-are home to over 357 bird species and 22 endangered animal species, including the Golden Langur and the critically endangered White-bellied Heron. These features position Zhemgang as a prime eco-tourism destination.

The Kikhar-Buli trail, an ancient trekking route that has been used by locals for centuries, is being revived as a major attraction for eco-tourists. Tashi Wangchuk, Chief Forestry Officer, explained that the trail’s restoration is part of a broader strategy to harness the region’s biodiversity and pristine natural environment to attract visitors and create employment opportunities for local communities. “Zhemgang remains one of the least developed dzongkhags, but its untouched natural beauty and diverse biodiversity, including unique and endangered species, make it an ideal destination for eco-tourism,” said Wangchuk.

He further emphasized that the initiative not only aims to boost tourism but also creates employment for local youth as guides, enhancing their livelihoods while preserving their cultural and environmental heritage. “This initiative is an opportunity for local youth to gain employment, while at the same time preserving and sharing their cultural and environmental heritage,” Wangchuk added.

The project is expected to have an educational impact as well, particularly for students who will benefit from practical exposure to nature, aligning with their academic curriculum. Engaging with the natural environment allows students to deepen their understanding of biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable practices, making their learning more interactive and meaningful.

The restoration of the Kikhar-Buli trail also represents a broader conservation effort. An ancient route once vital for trade and travel, the trail has now been transformed into a sanctuary for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Tandel Zangpo, Ranger Officer of Zhemgang Dzongkhag, highlighted the significance of the restoration, which reconnects people with the land’s natural beauty and biodiversity. “The 9.5-kilometer trail from Trong Heritage Village to Gompong Chorten, once a crucial route for travelers, has now become a key destination for eco-tourism, offering breathtaking landscapes and opportunities to witness diverse ecosystems,” said Zangpo.

The project is also expected to benefit the local community by creating opportunities for cultural and heritage tourism. “Restoring such heritage trails not only preserves cultural landmarks but also fosters eco-tourism, benefiting local communities,” Zangpo added.

Tshering Phuntsho, a staff member at the National Council of Bhutan, has been at the forefront of the Kikhar-Buli trail’s restoration. Hailing from Kikhar village in Nangkor Gewog, Phuntsho spearheaded the restoration effort with the support of the local community. “Reviving the Kikhar-Buli trail would not only enrich the district’s tourism offerings but also provide a sustainable and culturally significant route for eco-tourists,” Phuntsho said. He also emphasized the broader implications for local livelihoods and the environment. “This initiative can contribute to local livelihoods, promote environmental conservation, and support the growing demand for eco-friendly tourism.”

The volunteer-driven efforts to restore the trail highlight the importance of preserving Bhutan’s ancient pathways. Tshering Phuntsho emphasized the responsibility of the community to safeguard these historical routes for future generations. “It is our responsibility to preserve these ancient routes, not just for our heritage but for future generations to explore and appreciate,” he said.

Local communities have been actively involved in the initiative, including residents like Tshering Norbu, the Tshogpa of Dakphel Tali Chiwog under Nangkor Gewog. “The Kikhar-Buli Trail offers visitors a chance to appreciate the rich biodiversity of our forests and learn about the various plant and animal species that thrive in this ecosystem,” Norbu said. He also highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the trail. “This trail is not just a route for hikers; it holds cultural and historical importance, serving as a reminder of the traditional paths our ancestors used for trade and travel.”

For the local youth, the eco-tourism initiative provides an opportunity to connect with their heritage and explore potential career paths. Dorji Kandu, a 21-year-old resident of Dakphel Tali Chiwog, expressed his excitement about the restoration of the trails. “While I had heard about these trails, I never had the opportunity to explore them. Now, with the improvements, I am looking forward to experiencing them firsthand,” Kandu said. He emphasized that the trails hold significant cultural and spiritual value, with several sacred sites located along the route. “This is a great opportunity for the community to benefit from increased accessibility, attracting visitors and pilgrims alike.”
Kandu, who discontinued his studies after Class 10, also sees the potential for eco-tourism to help him create a sustainable income. “I hope to establish a homestay in the future, providing accommodation for tourists while also promoting our local culture and hospitality,” he said.

As the Kikhar-Buli trail and other heritage paths continue to be revitalized, Zhemgang Dzongkhag’s eco-tourism initiative is expected to not only preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the region but also foster economic growth through sustainable tourism. With increased interest in eco-friendly travel, the restored trails will likely attract researchers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts, further solidifying Zhemgang’s reputation as a biodiversity hotspot and eco-tourism destination.