Every year, thousands of tourists enter the country via Phuentshogling. However, not many tourists explore Phuentshogling and other parts of the Chhukha district. To explore this untapped potential, the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and relevant stakeholders are now exploring ways to boost tourism in the region.
Officials said for now, people consider Phuentshogling just as a commercial hub and Chhukha, as a route to Thimphu and other districts. But they said it is time to change that mindset.
They highlighted that there are many areas that can attract tourists. From rafting to fishing and bird watching, the district has many avenues that can be explored.
“We can promote business tourism in Phuentshogling. This involves meetings and seminars. I think it is time to attract business people from the neighbouring country for business-related meetings in Phuentshogling. Another thing is we have many sacred religious sites in the district that can be explored to attract tourists. We can also look at hosting marriage parties for our neighbours,” said Kelzang, Regional Secretary of BCCI in Phuentshogling.
He said that the BCCI, Phuentshogling Thromde, and the Chhukha district administration are making efforts to collaborate and promote tourism in Chhukha.
As a part of the effort, these offices recently conducted a familiarisation trip for travel agents, media promoters, and hotel owners. The trip was aimed at exploring places that can be developed as tourist destinations.
“Through this trip, I came to know about many amazing places. Although I grew up here in Phuentshogling, I was not aware of such potential. I have already started making a package. It is almost winter and students would love to explore the areas, and also there are many religious sites. After posting it on Facebook, I started receiving many calls and messages for enquiry,” said Phuntsho Om, Manager of Druk City Tour and Travel.
The group visited several campsites, homestays, and religious sites.
The relevant stakeholders are also planning to develop several viewpoints and guest houses among others.
According to the BCCI, it is important for the tour operators, guides and relevant stakeholders to consider taking the tourists to these unexplored places.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
