In a bid to boost economic prosperity and improve road infrastructure in their community, the residents of Chhoekhorling village in Sarpang’s Samtenling Gewog have set their sights on Wellness Medicinal Park located in their vicinity. Recently, His Holiness the Je Khenpo handed over the land registration certificate of the Medicinal Park to the Gelephu Thromde. This five-acre land was generously donated to His Holiness by an elderly couple from Trongsa.
The Wellness Park, situated about five kilometres from Gelephu Town, is accessible via the Chhoekhorling Farm Road.
However, the road is riddled with potholes. Lack of funds meant the Samtenling Gewog Administration could not repair the farm road.
Residents are anticipating the maintenance and blacktopping of the road, which would help visitors access the Medicinal Park.
They also hope to capitalise on this opportunity by selling their surplus farm produce and livestock products to park visitors, generating additional income for the community.
“People come for picnics at the wellness park, and the government has invested in infrastructure. I feel the park will benefit us,” said Sangay Wangmo, a resident.
“The outcome hinges on our production capacity. If we can increase our production to meet the growing population’s needs, it will undoubtedly make a significant difference,” said Wangdi, another resident.
Drungtsho Yeshey Dorji, who is responsible for medicinal plants at the park says the park has 39 varieties of medicinal plants, with the Aru Baru plant being particularly precious.
He said the Aru Baru plant can be combined with other medicinal plants to create various types of medicine. To help visitors learn and identify the medicinal plants, individual plants will be labelled.
“These medicinal plants have special significance in our culture, as we believe that a forest filled with such plants can prevent various ailments. Visitors to the Medicinal Park can find solace in the presence of these medicinal plants, their vibrant flowers, and the soothing aromas, which can help alleviate fatigue and bring happiness. Furthermore, the thromde has played a crucial role in developing the park.”
According to the Gelephu Thrompon, the park is now fully equipped with amenities, including canopies, walking trails, toilets, and streetlights, making it accessible to people from all walks of life.
Plans are underway to address the road potholes and maintain them for the convenience of visitors. The government spent Nu 16 M to develop the park.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sherub Dorji
