Residents of Pema Gatshel and the nearby districts in the east are not looking any further when it comes to seeking a place for retreat. The Lotus Valley Eco Camp, nestled in the serene Yurungzampa area of Pema Gatshel, is quickly becoming popular among the locals. Visitors from all walks of life flock to the camp site, especially during holidays, helping the youths operating it sustain their business.
The Lotus Valley Eco Camp is located along the Marung stream, just three kilometers from the iconic Druk Migjur Dechen Dzong.
It makes for an ideal yet budget-friendly getaway destination for those seeking peace and a closer connection with nature.
The camp draws many visitors, particularly during the festive season.
Children run and play freely while adults relax and enjoy the peaceful ambience.
Tshering Zangpo, a visitor from Lhanangzor said “We’ve seen plains in India but now this forest has become just as beautiful. The moment I arrived, I could see how clean and beautiful it is here. It’s a great way to relieve stress and refresh the mind.”
Posang Drukpa, another visitor from Gamung said “We visit temples on auspicious days but when work and stress take their toll, we come here to rest. The Eco Camp offers everything we need. It’s an exciting and refreshing experience. Even the elderly from our village, who have heard about this place, are eager to visit. It’s become a place where we can all find joy.”
Beyond business people and civil servants from Denchi Town, the Eco Camp also receives visitors from the nearby villages.
Such positive response from the community has become the source of inspiration for the youth operating this venture, motivating them to continue their work.
Gembo Wangyal, Eco Camp Operator said “We’re thrilled by the support from our community. It’s encouraging when locals bring their children here to experience the nature. We’re hopeful that this support will continue, and it will also inspire other youth to start similar businesses in other areas.”
For some, it is their first time visiting an eco-camp. They say it is a pleasant experience with many planning to return and share the experience once again with their friends and loved ones.
Posang Drukpa, a visitor said “When we travel, we always tell others about this place. I encourage everyone to visit and it’s exciting to see more people showing interest. This is also a great opportunity to tackle youth unemployment by supporting local businesses. We can’t leave all the responsibility to the government—each of us can contribute.”
Tshering Zangpo also said said “Losar is just around the corner, and I’m looking forward to bringing the elderly those who can walk from my village to visit along with the children.”
The camp opened just last year and it continues to develop and improve.
Operated by five young entrepreneurs from the nearby gewog, the camp has received support from the Pema Gatshel District Administration, HELVETAS, and the Department of Local Government and Disaster Management.
Today, it stands an example of what youth can achieve when given the right support and encouragement.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Phub Gyem
