16/10/2023
The Jigmechhu Eco-tourism site in Chhukha, Bhutan, received the prestigious "Most Performing Community Tourism Destination" award during the fifth edition of the Himalayan Hospitality and Tourism Awards. This accolade is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the tourism department and the dzongkhag administration in fostering community-based tourism for local economic upliftment. Renowned for its natural splendor and diverse wildlife, the site particularly attracts visitors during the winter season.
Under the stewardship of two community groups, Jigmechhu provides campsites, homestays, and unique 'tree house' lodges, positioning it as a potential international tourism hub with additional investments. The site attained eco-tourism status through the Tourism Flagship Programme, backed by an investment of around Nu 1.5 billion, geared towards catalyzing regional development through tourism.
A 2020 assessment report underscored Jigmechhu's rich biodiversity, establishing it as a pivotal driver of economic growth in the dzongkhag. Home to more than 300 bird species, including the endangered White-Bellied Heron, as well as peacocks, barking deer, various hornbill species, and numerous butterflies, the site is locally known as Majathang due to the prevalence of peacocks.
Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences, including homestays, birdwatching, tongba drinks, fly-fishing, and a trek to Ami Nye, a pilgrimage site dedicated to the local deity Aum Yangtham. Plans for a cycling track and rafting services are underway, and the eco-tourism site has sparked a revitalization of Jigmechhu town with the establishment of new shops.
Despite these successes, the region faces challenges such as adverse climatic conditions, challenging terrain, limited water supply, and low agricultural productivity. Wildlife crop damage and constrained market access are substantial hurdles. The surge in visitors has led to waste management issues, and water scarcity necessitates the closure of the campsite during the monsoon season from May to September.
Several organizations, including the Royal Society for Protection of Nature, Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators, Nature Conservation Division, Bhutan Foundation, and HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, actively contribute to the promotion and advancement of the Jigmechhu Eco-tourism site.
Happiness Kingdom TravelsSwiss-Bhutanese ClassroomGuide Association of BhutanDepartment of Tourism, Bhutan