Four gewogs and 20 chiwogs of Zhemgang will come together to put forward their best locally produced organic foods and products during the inaugural Manas Winter Festival, which will take place this weekend at Panbang. The festival is a tribute to His Majesty The King’s birthday.
Panbang is located within the Royal Manas National Park and spreads across three districts, Sarpang, Zhemgang and Pema Gatshel. The nation’s oldest protected area is home to hundreds of wildlife, birds and plant species, most of them globally endangered.
Locals in Panbang are proud of their rich culture, cuisines and leisure activities. They believe the region has much to offer to both local and international tourists.
This belief inspired them to host the first-ever Manas Winter Festival and make it a success.
With only a few days left, villagers have constructed stalls. Banana leaves roof the bamboo stalls. Traditional delicacies along with other unique specialties, will be on display.
“We held a meeting with officials and assigned responsibilities across the four gewogs and 20 chiwogs. Each chiwog is setting up a stall to showcase their age-old traditions and local products,” said Jambay Choda, a resident.
“We hope the festival goes smoothly. As this is the first time, we’re unsure of its success, but we aim to highlight the region’s offerings, from rafting services to birding areas and much more,” said Sangay Penjor, the BCCI representative.
The Dungkhag Authority is focused on boosting tourism and strengthening the local economy through the festival.
Panbang Dungpa Sherab Zangpo said, “The main objective of this festival aligns with the government’s goal of economic revival and tourism promotion. It provides a platform for locals to sell their produce and forest resources. They can also showcase traditional agricultural tools and household items.”
The District and the Dungkhag administration are organizing the festival with funding from the government.
As the weekend approaches, the excitement in Panbang grows. The villagers, filled with pride, are ready to welcome guests from near and far.
Sonam Yuden
Edited by Sangay Chezom
