CBT Bhutan

05/05/2024

In 2016, Kencho’s late mother started the Pema Dema Village Homestay. Despite not knowing English, her late mother, a robust and lively woman, created a warm atmosphere for guests. She always ended up leaving a lasting impression on her guests. Her charisma attracted guests, and they received visitors throughout the year. Foreign guests often sought her out after hearing about her vibrant personality. Learning about her passing brought sadness to many. However, her departure didn't deter the family from preserving and continuing her homestay legacy. Kencho’s father contributed with his unique skill of crafting souvenirs and key hangers from yak hairs. Guests were fascinated by these handmade items and bought them in abundance. Crafted from natural fabrics, these souvenirs resonated with guests who appreciated their culture. The income from the homestay became crucial in funding one of her siblings’ university education. The family holds a deep passion for welcoming guests and aspires to host more. This homestay stands as a cherished gift from their late mother, and the family is committed to doing everything to carry forward her legacy.
Helvetas HAA Dzongkhag Administration Department of Tourism, Bhutan

27/04/2024

26/04/2024

Gyem Tshering's plans for marriage and monastery life were disrupted by illness. Recovering, she chose family and unexpectedly found purpose running a homestay. This challenged stereotypes and provided income, while also becoming a platform for cultural exchange and family connection. Her story showcases the power of homestays to transform lives and traditions. HelvetasHaa Visitor Information and Incubation Center HAA Dzongkhag Administration

26/04/2024

Haa district officials are working together to make tourism more exciting. This includes fixing up existing trails, historical sites, and treks, building new trails like the Tergo sightseeing route, and finding social media stars to promote the area. They also recently launched a website with the help of Helevtas Bhutan and the Department of Tourism, which offers "community-based tourism" experiences for visitors. Their goal is to attract 5,000 tourists next year. HelvetassHaa Visitor Information and Incubation Center HAA Dzongkhag Administration

Haa Dzongkhag administration aims to receive a minimum of 5,000 tourists by next year. Among the western regions of the country, Haa has been the least visited tourist destination over the years.

17/04/2024

Community-based tourism (CBT) initiatives in Bhutan entails offering authentic travel experiences.

17/04/2024

Ten years ago, Chimi Lham embarked on her homestay journey, starting it all by herself. The idea took shape when the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) suggested the venture, though she worried about managing with few resources and whether guests would come. Initially, there were no guests, and Chimi almost gave up. Encouragement from her brother and children kept her going. With additional help from the then Tourism Council of Bhutan (now Department of Tourism), and by promoting her business on social media, guests started arriving. HAA Dzongkhag Administration Helvetas Haa Visitor Information and Incubation Center

12/04/2024

Web Portal Handling Training at Haa VIC.

The 3 days web portal training that provide comprehensive training on utilizing the web portal effectively for all participants concluded today. The web portal training focused on understanding the layout, structure of the portal and step-by-step guidelines on creating accounts, data management and managing the web portal. Participants were engaged in practical exercises to reinforce learning and enhance proficiency.

Five representatives from eco-tourism campsites and homestays in Chhukha attended a three-day training session at the Haa Visitor Information Centre. During the training, the significance of web portal for marketing at both national and international levels was emphasized. Furthermore, it was noted that web portal can help address issues related to visitor record-keeping, unlike traditional methods using pen and paper. Leki Dorji, Chairman of Jigmechu Tree House, highlighted these points.

12/04/2024

The visit to Haa was a source of inspiration for the members of Lotus Valley Eco-campsite and Gongribaley Eco-lodge in PemaGatshel. Experiencing the warm hospitality of Kinley Wangchuk Homestay and Haa Heritage left a profound impact on us. The homestay and hotel services in Haa provided valuable insights into Community Based Tourism (CBT) and instilled in us a strong commitment to practicing sustainable CBT. We are eager to integrate what we learned from Haa into our efforts to develop sustainable CBT in PemaGatshel.

We thank Bhutan Helvetas, Department of Tourism and DLGDM for the generous support.

picture courtesy: FB page of Kinley Wangchuk Homestay and Haa Heritage Hotel

12/04/2024

Haa Spring Festival

The annual Haa Spring Festival, held on April 7th to 9th, 2024 is a joyful celebration of the stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage of Haa Valley. Visitor had the opportunity to engage in a multitude of experiences, including admiring colorful floral arrangements, savoring authentic local dishes showcasing yak, trout, Nublang and nomadic culture and enjoying captivating traditional performances.