Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay inaugurated a two-day festival at Rongtse Nye in Haa’s Sangbaykha Dungkhag, yesterday. It is aimed at promoting tourism and traditional cuisine, and improve local businesses. This inaugural event is the first of its kind in the Dungkhag, unlocking the cultural and economic potential of the region.
Hundreds of people from Gakiling and Sangbay Gewogs under Sangbaykha Dungkhag and people from as far as Thimphu, Samste and Haa gathered at the dungkhag ground to celebrate the event.
Tour operators and guides were invited to explore the area’s tourism potential, which includes its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, as well as traditional cuisine—key attractions for visitors.
The prime minister, addressing the crowd, expressed enthusiasm not only because it is his region of origin but also for the event’s potential to drive socioeconomic development in the area.
“We do not need hotels. We have villages and homes scattered around the area. If guests stay with the residents here for two nights and visit all the sacred sites here, it will not only help the villagers but also contribute to the country’s socioeconomic development. I am saying all these because I am excited about this initiative.”
Tobgay, Sangbay Gup said “Organising such an event provides much needed market for our people here. Moreover, if we can attract guests to our place, it will be a game changer. Our people are not able to take part in the Haa Spring Festival because of the distance. So, this opportunity contributes to socioeconomic development in the region, which is our main goal.”
Residents appreciated the initiative, highlighting its impact on their businesses and farming practices.
Samdrup, a businessman in Sangbay Gewog said “I do business in Sangbaykha Dungkhag but we do not have many customers. So, from such events we get customers. Taking advantage of this event, we were able to sell our products made from bamboos and timber.”
Tashi who is also from Sangbay Gewog “We can grow almost all the nine cereals and grains in Sangbaykha. However, due to lack of market we do not prioritise it. Now, when such event brings lot of visitors including international guests, they acknowledge the diversity of our products and are willing to pay the cost we charge. So, such events are educating us how farming is key for economic prosperity.”
Kuenga, a resident of Samar Gewog said “We are excited to meet the prime minister. There are many stalls selling different commodities and there are different cultural events as well. That is what brought me and my friends here who are all more than 80 years of age. We came all the way from Haa which is more than two hours drive from here.”
Nima Tenzin Sherpa, another resident of Gakiling Gewog said “I am so happy to be able to attend the festival. There are many cultural performances and shops.”
The event featured movie screenings, games, and a strongman contest, showcasing the community’s energy and spirit.
The festival will now be conducted annually, with the aim to attract visitors and foster development in the region.
Namgay Wangchuk, Haa
Edited by Tshering Zam
