The first-ever Bathing Carnival in Bhutan will be hosted in Pema Gatshel next week. The festival, centred on the Bhutanese tradition of Thruebab or Blessed Rainy Day, aims to blend cultural traditions with modern festivities, offering visitors a unique water-based, cultural, and adventure-filled getaway. The programme is aimed to boost tourism in the district.
Preparations are in full swing for the festival at Telung in Nganglam.
The three-day event will highlight local products, cultural displays, and games.
Pema Gatshel Dzongda Tashi Dawa said, “To elevate the prestige, importance, and significance of Thruebab in our country, Thruebab is a very important socio-cultural event for all Bhutanese, and with this carnival, we want to take the celebration to the next level.”
According to residents, excitement is high as the event will not only showcase Pema Gatshel to the nation but also to international guests.
Tashi Choden, Mikuri-Bangyul Tshogpa of Dungmin Gewog said, “I was very happy when I heard the news. It is a great opportunity to bring in business people and tourists. We will also get to sell our local products here.”
Tsejay Norbu, Drezama Tshogpa of Chhokhorling Gewog said, “With international tourists coming, people are excited to display their products. If more tourists join us, our farmers will benefit by making a good income.”
The Pema Gatshel Dzongda said that the event is not only a celebration but also an opportunity to open doors for tourism, helping people improve their livelihoods.
“So far, Pema Gatshel has not been able to play a major role in Bhutan’s tourism industry. Through this event, we want to open the doors of Pema Gatshel to the world and showcase our unique culture, heritage, and traditions, things that are not unique but also deeply significant in Bhutan’s history.”
Organised by Pema Gatshel District Administration and the Department of Tourism, it will take place from the 22nd to the 24th of this month.
Beyond the aquatic and recreational events, the carnival is expected to provide a rich cultural immersion.
Thinley Dorji, Pema Gatshel
Edited by Tshering Zam
