For some food vendors, the 108 stupas event is more than a spiritual occasion. It is also an opportunity to serve thousands of visitors while generating additional income. With tens of thousands gathered for the event, they are making the most of the occasion.
Vendors have come from across the country and are offering their best services to cater to the needs of visitors. According to the organisers, more than 150 food stalls have been set up at 17 locations, with most concentrated behind the Zeerays. The stalls opened on Thursday and will operate without time restrictions until the day after, serving visitors throughout the day and night.
Pema Dorji, a food vendor from Trongsa, said the royal initiative by His Majesty gave them this opportunity. “We are grateful. We earned over Nu 40,000 yesterday,” he said.
Janima, a vendor from Sarpang, said the crowd was very large yesterday, with more than 150,000 people. “We were very busy and made around 70,000 to 80,000 in sales,” she said. She added that it has been a good experience, and if similar opportunities arise, she hopes to take part in events in other districts as well.
Dawa Tenzin, a vendor from Haa, said they will keep operating until the programme concludes. “We are doing our best to serve whatever customers order, as we want to make the most of this opportunity and earn a good profit,” he said.
To support the vendors, organisers provided free space, electricity and water arrangements. Stall structures were supplied at a minimal one-time cost, while vendors arranged their own tents to extend their stalls.
Despite brisk business, some vendors said meeting the demand for water has been challenging, particularly in the area behind the Zeerays. Organisers say the area has no dedicated water supply infrastructure. Water is being supplied by tankers, including dedicated services to individual stalls, but high demand and limited storage have made a consistent supply difficult.
As the event continues, food stalls remain an important part of the gathering, ensuring visitors have access to meals and refreshments while creating business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Kelzang Chhophyel & Changa Dorji
Edited by Phub Gyem
