The highland community of Sakteng in Trashigang came alive with songs, laughter and stories of the mythical Yeti yesterday as the three-day “The Great Yeti Quest” began. The festival is aimed at promoting eco-tourism, preserving the unique Brokpa culture and creating new income opportunities for residents. More than a thousand people, including international tourists, attended the opening day of the festival.
Against the backdrop of Sakteng’s scenic mountains, colourful cultural performances welcomed visitors to the festival.
Traditional songs, dances and local customs offered tourists a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the highland community.
Unlike conventional festivals, food stalls and exhibition spaces were set up inside or attached to traditional Brokpa houses, giving visitors an authentic experience of local hospitality and architecture.
Adding meaning to the celebration, the Garden of Patriotism was also inaugurated in tribute to Their Majesties’ Royal Visit to Sakteng in 2015.
Kezang Jamtsho, Sr. Dungpa of Sakteng Dungkhag said, “The event will be sustainable because we do not have to spend much on developing the main event ground and stalls. Another important aspect is that the residents are performing in the entire programme. For example, the community committee members manage the wedding ceremony. We are only organising the event, while the people themselves are doing all the work.”
Singye Rinchen, tourism officer of Department of Tourism said, “The most important people are the travel agents and tourist guides. It is important for them to become familiar with the place, and learn more about it. After this programme, we are planning to further develop the area as a tourist destination, and we are also working closely to bring tourists from Assam and the region.”
Sakteng Dungkhag organised the event with support from the Department of Tourism under Economic Stimulus Programme.
With its blend of mythology, culture and nature, organisers hope the festival will place Sakteng on Bhutan’s tourism map in the years ahead.
Sonam Darjay, Trashigang
