In what could be a milestone in promoting tourism in Chhukha, five village homestay facilities in the district received certification from the Department of Tourism recently. This is the first time the district will have homestay facilities. Besides providing an alternative accommodation facility to all visitors, the initiative is also expected to enhance the local economy.
The Chhukha district administration, as part of its Tourism Action Plan, has promoted various tourism products like the introduction of winter camping sites and hiking trails in various Gewogs.
Such initiatives are expected to bring in more tourists and visitors to the district.
Providing accommodation to visitors is also sorted with the new homestay initiative. The five certified homestay facilities are in Shemakha, Bjagchhog, Getena and Bongo villages.
Owner of Lhamo Homestay in Bjagchhog says she is looking forward to give the best of services to guests visiting her homestay.
Sonam Choki is another homestay owner from Getena. “Whenever officials from the district administration visit our village, they stay in my home. But now that I am certified, I can provide accommodation services to all the visitors in our village.”
The initiative is only expected to encourage more villagers. The district’s economic development officer, Sangay Thinley, says the aim was to help residents enhance their income and also contribute to the growth of the local economy.
Initially, there were 41 villagers who registered for certification from the Department of Tourism. Only five could meet the required criteria for now. Several others are also seeking certification.
Passang Dorji, Chhukha
Edited by: Sherub Dorji
