The second Pachu Harvest Festival in Phuentshogling has drawn hundreds of participants under the 24-hour Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) waiver framework. This, according to the Chhukha District Administration, marks another milestone in the town’s push for managed tourism. However, tourists and tour operators say the Pachu Community Campsite should be open to visitors beyond the festival, so that it can become a destination in its own right.
About 300 participants attended the festival, including guests from Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong in India. The festival celebrated traditional harvesting methods and agricultural produce, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Bhutanese farming practices, local cuisine and rural life.
Sangki Bhutia, a guest from Sikkim, India, said, “We are very grateful to get this opportunity to attend the festival. Here at Pachu, we could witness the age-old traditions of harvesting. We are very happy to explore and experience such traditions and activities in Bhutan.”
More than 12 stalls gave vendors an opportunity to promote their products and explore potential markets.
However, the limited duration of the SDF waiver worries regional tourists and tour operators.
Harish, a tour operator from India, said, “It is a great place for camping and family outings. However, there are some restrictions like paying the SDF. So if the government could waive off the SDF, this place could become the most happening spot in Phuentshogling.”
District officials say they are working to improve their strategies.
Sangay Dorji, Deputy Chief Planning Officer in Chhukha, said, “Tourists can visit Milarepa Lhakhang without having to pay the SDF. However, access to the Pachu Community Campsite is still under review. Once the review is complete, we will introduce guidelines, similar to those for Milarepa Lhakhang. This will be implemented in phases.”
Nado, Chairman of Pachu Community Tourism, said, “The festival has improved compared to last year. More people have come to attend and also there were better programmes. However, our Indian guests have been asking when they could come here without having to pay the SDF. Changes are expected to happen soon under the Phuentshogling Thromde Enhancement Programme.”
As Phuentshogling works to position itself as more than a gateway, the festival could help attract regional visitors. However, sustaining that interest will depend on promoting local experiences and on making these destinations easily accessible to tourists.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sangay Chezom
