As is the case every winter, the river rafting business in Punakha has been facing a downturn this time around as well. The once-thriving business has slowed down due to shrinking river volumes and few tourists in winter. Some business operators say they often run at a loss during the winter months.
Six firms run rafting businesses along the Phochhu and Mochhu rivers.
Normally busy with rafters from both within the country and abroad, the businesses have remained idle for most part of the winter.
The rivers have become shallow, raising safety concerns. Rafts that typically carry six passengers in summer can now accommodate only three or four.
Moreover, tourist numbers have also dropped, making it difficult for the companies to stay afloat.
Only a few tourists from neighbouring countries and local enthusiasts have been coming for rafting.
“During the peak tourist season, we operate about 50 rafting trips a month, earning around Nu 350,000. But in winter, with shrinking river levels, we struggle to operate even 10 trips, earning just about Nu 100,000 a month,” said Jamyang Kinga, the Manager of Lotus Rafting Services.
Owner of White Water Rafting Tshering said, “The low water levels are driving foreign tourists away. Many cancel their plans after seeing the river size, and only a few elderly tourists are still interested. As a result, we earn about 30 per cent of what we make in the summer months.”
The financial strain is affecting not only the business owners but also their staff. Some companies rely on freelance river guides, while others employ permanent staff. With only fewer trips, the income of many river guides has been dwindling.
“In winter, with the decrease in rafting trips, our income takes a significant hit. We struggle to make enough money to cover our monthly salary, and the daily subsistence allowance (DSA) is almost non-existent,” Phurba Tshering, a river guide with Lotus Rafting Services.
“As a freelance guide, my income plummets in winter. In summer, I can make around Nu 50,000 a month, but in winter, it is hard to even make Nu 10,000,” said Kinley Gyeltshen, a freelance river guide.
The rafting business in Bhutan dates back to the 1990s.
With fewer tourists, dwindling revenues, and financial pressures on both business owners and staff, the industry is hoping for a resurgence as the tourist season begins to ramp up again in the spring.
Changa Dorji, Punakha
Edited by Sangay Chezom
