Trashigang—As Bhutan sets its sights on sustainable tourism, the six eastern dzongkhags—Mongar, Lhuentse, Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, Pemagatshel, and Samdrup Jongkhar—are gearing up to emerge as the next must-visit ecotourism hotspots.
With rich biodiversity, vibrant cultural heritage, and a wide array of trekking opportunities, this region is poised to attract eco-conscious adventurers.
Despite its stunning landscapes, eastern Bhutan has long struggled with inadequate infrastructure. However, a transformative USD 4.854 million project led by the Department of Tourism (DOT) is set to change that, unlocking its vast untapped potential.
Mongar Dzongda Lungten Jamtsho, expressed optimism about the region’s future, stating that Mongar, Lhuentse, Trashigang, and Trashiyangtse would play critical roles in the emerging eastern Bhutan tourism circuit. To this end, each dzongkhag is developing unique offerings tailored for both international and local tourists.
Mongar: A birdwatcher’s paradise
Mongar is swiftly gaining recognition as a premier birding destination in the country. The district has recorded 301 bird species along the Trans Bhutan Trail from Latongla to Zhongar. The area boasts a diverse array of habitats, including resident and migratory species, some of which are vulnerable or near-threatened.
The dzongkhag is also diving into agro-tourism, inviting visitors to experience traditional farming practices and explore fly fishing at the Kuri-Gongri River at Yangbari, which is a mahseer hotspot.
Excitement is also building for a potential Enduro mountain biking race, promising stunning views and thrilling adventures. “We want to develop it into a thrilling sport for visitors,” said Lungten Jamtsho.
Efforts are also underway to establish a craft market complemented by modern café facilities. “Mongar is centrally located in the eastern region, making it a convenient stopover for tourists, whether for a cup of coffee or to check out local crafts,” he added.
Trashigang: Revitalising ancient trails
Rich in history and biodiversity, Trashigang is preparing to become a significant ecotourism destination in the east.
The dzongkhag is revitalising the ancient trekking routes, such as those between Khaling and Lumang, Radhi and Merak, and the Chenla trek in Kangpar.
To celebrate local culture, Trashigang plans to host a one-week Rhododendron Festival at Sheteymi next year. “Of Bhutan’s 46 rhododendron species, 41 are found in the Merak and Sakteng areas,” said Trashigang Dzongda Ugyen Dorji, highlighting the region’s floral diversity. The event will offer highlanders an opportunity to showcase their unique culture and way of life.
Trashigang is home to the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, sheltering rare species like the Red Panda, the Royal Bengal Tiger, and more than 20 endangered animal species.
With 77 percent of the area covered in forests, the dzongkhag is an attractive destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
Khaling and Lumang gewogs, with their 250 recorded bird species, are quickly becoming birdwatching hotspots. Khaling and Lumang gewogs, with 250 recorded bird species, are emerging as prime bird-watching destinations.
Nature enthusiast Sonam Dorji explained, “While the Satyr Tragopan is found throughout the country, Temminck’s and Blyth’s Tragopan are exclusive to this area, making it possible for tourists to spot all three species simultaneously.” These birds are typically seen from March to May and again between September and November.
Tourists can also observe two butterfly species, Bhutanitis ludlowi and Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory.
Lhuentse: A blend of culture, spirituality, and nature
Known for its rich cultural heritage, Lhuentse is focusing on eco-tourism through trekking routes and spiritual retreats. The dzongkhag is promoting Singye Dzong as a key eco-tourism destination and showcasing Khoma as a craft village for traditional weaving.
Plans are underway to enhance Ney Tshachu (hot spring) or Khanpalung Tshachu with new infrastructure, including an information centre, café, and eco-lodge.
The economic development and marketing officer of Lhuentse Dzongkhag, Tshewang Zangmo, said, “The dzongkhag offers a blend of traditional textile craftsmanship, sacred pilgrimage sites, and untouched trekking routes like Phuningla and Rodungla that provide a unique and authentic Bhutanese experience.”
Despite its potential, there are challenges such as distance from the international airport and poor road conditions and limited tourist standard accommodations.
“We need targeted development and improved infrastructure to fully realise our tourism potential,” Tshewang Zangmo added. “Collaboration among the eastern dzongkhags to create regional tourism circuits could further enhance visitor experiences.”
Trashiyangtse: Sanctuary for pilgrims and wildlife
Trashiyangtse, blessed with sacred pilgrimage sites and rich biodiversity, is emerging as a unique cultural and eco-tourism destination.
The dzongkhag features notable sites like Gom Kora, Chorten Kora Omba Nye, Pemaling, Dechenphodrang, Kharchendrag, and Rigsum Goenpa, to name a few. It is also home to the national butterfly, Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory, and serves as a winter roosting ground for the endangered Black-necked crane.
The planning officer of Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag Administration, Tshering Dorji, said that the dzongkhag is blessed with natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, pilgrimage sites, traditional arts and crafts, and a unique culture.
“Tourists can engage in traditional woodcraft such as dapa making, and sample local delicacies, such as the unique Urka Bangala (chilli),” he said.
The dzongkhag has plans to develop infrastructure at the Sheridzong and Pemaling sacred pilgrimage sites. Another project is the Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory trail, which will run from Zhapang to Rigsum Goenpa, and from Rigsum Goenpa to Dechenphodrang.
“Sacred pilgrimage sites, untouched nature, and rich biodiversity are what Trashiyangtse offers to both international and local tourists,” said Tshering Dorji.
Challenges
The biggest hurdles for eastern dzongkhags are infrastructure deficiencies and the distance from Paro International Airport, which makes access challenging.
Mongar Dzongda is optimistic about future tourism once the Samdrup Jongkhar entry point opens. “We are confident that many international visitors will flock to Mongar Dzongkhag and other dzongkhags after that,” said Mongar Dzongda Lungten Jamtsho.
“While the eastern dzongkhags possess tremendous tourism potential, improving infrastructure and marketing strategies are crucial. The number of international visitors could double with better accessibility,” he added.
