RSPN Bhutan with support from the Bhutan Foundation 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲 (𝗦𝗚𝗣), conducted Inception and Coordination meetings on 13–14 August 2026 for the project “𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆-𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗮𝗯𝗷𝗶 𝗛𝗼𝗸𝗮 𝗧𝘀𝗵𝗼 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗹.”

The meetings with the Punakha Dzongkhag Administration, Wangdue Divisional Forest Office, Kabjisa Gewog Administration, and Gawpay Community Forest Management Group (CFMG) focused on project orientation, community participation, coordination, and planning for the Nature Trail, Trailhead Hub, Visitor Registration Facility, and Waste Management Plan. The engagement aims to strengthen collaboration and community ownership towards sustainable tourism, conservation, and improved local livelihoods around Kabji Hoka Tsho (Lake).

𝗞𝗮𝗯𝗷𝗶 𝗛𝗼𝗸𝗮 𝗧𝘀𝗵𝗼 is a sacred natural lake located in Kabjisa Gewog, Punakha Dzongkhag. Nestled within a rich, forested mountain landscape at an elevation of approximately 2,000 metres above sea level, the lake is characterised by its serene and secluded setting, natural surroundings, and deep cultural and spiritual significance. It is regarded as an important natural and cultural attraction in the Kabjisa landscape, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Bhutan’s natural beauty alongside its rich cultural heritage.

𝗛𝗮𝗮 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗹, 𝗛𝗮𝗮 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 | 𝟭𝟲 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

Today, in the beautiful valleys of Haa, stories of conservation, resilience, and community came alive as RSPN officially kicked off its three-day 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽.

Bringing together conservation champions, local communities, government partners, field practitioners, and changemakers from across Bhutan, Day One became more than a workshop,it became a celebration of people, partnerships, and progress.

𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘆:

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘂𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀- ‘𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻’

We opened the day with exciting project updates, including the landmark Resolution of the International Conference on the White-bellied Heron- a global affirmation that Bhutan’s conservation leadership is being seen and recognized.

𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲-𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘀- 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲

From community forests to Hydropower Authorities from the project landscape, our eco-restoration partners shared inspiring stories of nurseries established, saplings planted, and habitats slowly healing -one tree at a time.

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲

Powerful stories from our Local Conservation Support Groups network from Punatshangchhu and Mangdechhu basins reminded us that meaningful conservation begins with people and reminded why grassroots action is irreplaceable.

𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗱.

From farmers adopting climate-smart agriculture, to beekeeping and fisheries interventions opening new pathways for income, local households are strengthening both resilience and wellbeing. The inspiring journey of the Khoshala Women Group in Trongsa stands as a powerful reminder that when communities are supported with sustainable livelihood opportunities, positive change follows.

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲.

Community leaders from Wangdue Phodrang and Dagana District shared inspiring stories of transformation, showing how electric and solar fencing and human–wildlife conflict mitigation efforts are helping communities move from repeated challenges toward peaceful coexistence with wildlife.

Day One closed with a strong reminder: this is not the end of the journey, it is a reflection point, a learning space, and a renewed commitment to continue working together for nature and people.

On June 9, 2026, the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) successfully convened a workshop on 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆-𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 and 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀. Homestay operators, tour agencies, guides, government representatives, Civil Society Organizations, and local leaders gathered to explore new opportunities for strengthening tourism products and building stronger market linkages.

During the workshop, participants emphasized that today’s travelers seek more than sightseeing; they are increasingly looking for authentic, meaningful, and immersive experiences that connect them with local communities, vibrant cultures, and pristine natural environments. The workshop provided a platform to discuss evolving tourism trends, visitor expectations, challenges faced by rural tourism enterprises, and practical strategies for improving tourism services and promotion

Through constructive panel discussions, experience sharing, and collaborative group work, participants identified key priorities for advancing community-based tourism. These included improving service quality, strengthening partnerships between communities and tour operators, enhancing digital visibility, ensuring transparent business practices, and developing market-ready tourism packages.

The workshop also highlighted the important role of community-based tourism in generating local income, preserving cultural heritage, promoting environmental stewardship, and creating opportunities for women and youth in rural communities.

As Bhutan’s tourism sector grows, participants reaffirmed their commitment to working together to build stronger, more sustainable, and inclusive tourism experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities.

RSPN extends our sincere appreciation to all the participants, resource persons, partners ( Department of Tourism, Bhutan, Nature Conservation Division, Guide Association of Bhutan, @ABTO, and Tarayana Foundation), and stakeholders for their active engagement and valuable contributions.

We are pleased to share that 𝟮𝟭 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀, supported under RSPN’s Community-based Tourism (#CBT) initiative through the ongoing BMUV-IKI project, have successfully received Village Homestay Certification from the Department of Tourism,

Now these homestays are ready to welcome guests from near and far, offering an authentic and immersive experience of rural Bhutan.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘆?

Village homestays provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience local customs, traditions, and dialy life,while supporting community livelihoods, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. Beyond hospitality, the homestay hosts also serve as our ambassadors for environmental conservation,raising awarness on about the critically endangered White-bellied Heron and inspiring responsible, eco-friendly travel.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆-𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 (𝗖𝗕𝗧)?

Through CBT initiatives, RSPN Bhutan continues to promote conservation-friendly livelihoods by empowering local communities, fostering stewardship of natural resources, and encouraging community participation in planning, decision-making, and sustainable tourism development.

If you have travel plans to the following Dzongkhags, don’t miss this opportunity to experience the true essence of rural Bhutan by staying at these newly certified village homestays:

Our heartfelt congratulations to all the newly certified homestay owners! Your dedication to preserving Bhutan’s culture, protecting the environment, and warmly welcoming guests into your homes is truly commendable. We wish you every success as ambassadors of sustainable, community-based tourism.

In the southern reach of Bhutan, amidst the vibrant lust forest and tranquil valleys of Dagana District, the locals of Bara Gumti village have embraced ecotourism as one of the alternate sources of income. It is not only an ecotourism destination but a home to Critically endangered ‘White Bellied Heron’. This village offers a unique gateway to southern Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and vibrant culture with unique experiences like camp life, tree top observation tower, jungle trail, and of course the majestic sereneness of Ox-bow River.

From the checklist, first the Gumti Camp (Gumti Ecotourism) is a beacon of hope for a group of dynamic youth, who have ventured into the journey of Ecotourism centered around endangered species fosters awareness and conservation.Stay tuned as RSPN unfolds the journey in the southern foothills, where ecotourism meets community empowerment for shaping a sustainable future.

This project is funded by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV), Germany through International Climate Initiative (IKI) with co-funding from MAVA Foundation, Switzerland and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN).

Aum Pema from Merak is reached her hometown in far eastern Bhutan today from the long tedious bus journey she has taken from Haa. For eight long days, Aum Pema along with the 56 other individuals from different communities under eight districts of Bhutan were there in Haa to learn diverse aspects of tourism.  It was a heavy heart for her to bid farewell to her close acquaintance she has known during the training, but she is much in haste to be back at her community and put into action of what she has learnt during the training.

RSPN in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Bhutan conducted the training for these local communities to enhance their skills in handling the guests. In particular, training was mainly focused on managing the Homestay and Ecolodge Operations, and skills that are useful to run the Cafeteria and Campsite. 

The training was driven by community-based tourism approach intended to create a unique experience for the tourist and focused on having standard practices and sustainable mechanisms.  The training provided by the expertise of RSPN and from other relevant organizations helped participants who were mostly attended by females to acquire skills and knowledge on diverse components of tourism. The tailored made training modules on the following areas were specifically designed and conducted:

Homestay Management: Focused on the skills to provide authentic cultural experiences and unique built-in Bhutanese hospitality skills. 

Ecolodge Operations: Emphasized on eco-friendly practices in managing lodges that respect and preserve our natural environment.

Cafeteria Management: Built the skills and knowledge from menu planning to customer service, The highlight of the training was emphasizing the showcase of  local cuisines. 

Campsite Management: Ensured to create memorable outdoor experiences, site maintenance, beautification, guest services, and the safety protocols for campgrounds.

The training is funded by #UNDP #GEF Ecotourism Project “Mainstreaming biodiversity conservation into tourism sector in Bhutan” implemented by the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment.

This training program is a part of IKI Project “Developing Ecosystem-based Solutions for Managing Biodiversity landscapes in Bhutan” funded by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV), Germany through International Climate Initiative (IKI) with co-funding from MAVA Foundation, Switzerland and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN).

In the serene river valley of Mangdechhu in Zhemgang, lies Berti village, a small yet vibrant community deeply associated with the conservation of the White-bellied Heron (WBH). Over the years, Berti has evolved from initial apprehension to embracing the WBH as a symbol of community development and environmental stewardship.

In the early 2000s, the formidable call of the WBH startled the residents of Berti, but they soon recognized it as a harbinger of progress for their village. Recognizing the importance of conserving this majestic bird, the community joined hands with the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) in their conservation efforts. Through RSPN’s support, Berti received invaluable assistance ranging from agricultural initiatives to infrastructure development, fostering a sustainable ecosystem while promoting community welfare. Communities were provided with seedlings of vegetables and other crops, piggery and fishery farming, high-value tree sapling plantation, infrastructure development for Ecolodge, and various capacity-building trainings.

At the forefront of Berti’s conservation journey is Ap Dorji, an esteemed member of the community. From his early involvement with RSPN as a Local Conservation Support Group member to nurturing the next generation’s involvement in conservation, his dedication has left an indelible mark on Berti’s landscape. Now, it is not so favouring with his age to continuously monitor the heron. But he feels satisfied, being able to let his daughter pursue a career in terms of operating the White-bellied Heron Ecolodge in the community. Today, he came carrying some fruits from his home to see off his daughter who will be leaving Haa for a week to attend capacity-building training on operating an ecolodge. The training will be provided by RSPN.

𝗕𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗵𝘂

Despite Berti’s efforts, challenges persist, exemplified by the declining WBH population along the Bertichhu river. The tributary river, Bertichhu that flows through Berti village and joins the Mangdechhu river was found to be one of the suitable habitats of WBH. Until 2015, there were two nests sighted along the Bertichhu and they have counted highest of 10 individuals. Sadly, there was a drastic declining of WBH in the area and it is only occasional to sight one or two individuals in the area now. Even the people observed, that the river volume seems to have decreased compared to the past.

𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘁𝗲-𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗱𝗴𝗲

Run by the community, the Ecolodge intends to create a sustainable model for conservation and serve as a platform to promote environmental awareness and generate income for the local community while safeguarding the future of the WBH. There are eight members, with seven of them are women who are currently running the lodge. They contribute 2% of their income to community and 35% into saving. The infrastructure support to build the ecolodge was supported by various agencies.

𝗕𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲

According to one of the researchers of the Royal University of Bhutan, the tradition of Bon offering in Berti village is called Berti Karchoed. This offering is an altered version of the earlier practice known as Nakchoed (black offering), which means offering of blood and meat. The present Karchoed (white offering) does not require animal sacrifice. Though RSPN supported the village in providing piggery and fishery farming, in 2015, the village opted to undergo white offering practice which led to abandoned the farming supported. Following years, RSPN ensured they are supported with other alternatives through Agrobiodiversity farming and ecotourism.In Berti, the White-bellied Heron is not merely a bird; it is a symbol of resilience, unity, and hope.

The seven-day ‘Peer Learning Trip to Haa’ to explore Community-based tourism initiatives was held from  25th April to 1st May, 2024. This immersive experience aimed to understand the dynamics of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community engagement.

The trip encompassed various activities ranging from experiencing the village homestay, experiences to Haa Panorama hike guided by local guide, visits to religious sites guided by Homestay Chairman (Homestay Association of Haa), interaction with Karsho eco-campsites members and property visit, and also visit to various heritage lodges and their hot stone bath facilities. In addition, the team visited to National Research Centre For Riverine and Lake Fisheries (NRCRLF), Haa Visitor Information Center, and Jigme Kesar Strict Nature Reserve (JKSNR).

This learning trip brought together newly certified homestay owner from the project landscape to experience Community-based Toursim in Haa which was initiated by RSPN (Year 2016-2018). The participants observed how local communities are empowered to manage and benefit from tourism activities. In addition, the participants gained a valuable insight into the principles of responsible tourism, the preservation of cultural heritage, the promotion of environmental conservation, and collaboration with relevant agencies within their landscape. This immersive peer learning journey not only fostered the collaboration and knowledge exchange among them but also inspired a deeper understanding and appreciation for the transformative potential of community-based tourism initiatives and also to setup a local institution at their place. 

RSPN Bhutan with co-financial support from the Department of Tourism, Bhutan through #GEF Ecotourism Project successfully coordinated the trip.

We are thrilled to share that out of the 62 supported houses aiming to become Village Homestays, 12 have now earned certification from the Department of Tourism, Bhutan. Now, they are ready to extend warm hospitality to guests from both near and far to experience the enriching cultural journey. A homestay is the ideal option for visitors looking for a genuine and immersive experience.

In Bhutan, #Villagehomestays offer a captivating peek into the rural life, inviting guests to fully engage into local customs and culture of this enchanted Himalayan Nation, while also playing a pivotal role in contributing towards socio-economic growth and preserving lush environment.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲-𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 (𝐂𝐁𝐓)?

Through CBT initiatives, RSPN Bhutan is dedicated to fostering awareness and promote positive attitudes, and sustainable actions in conserving Bhutan’s rich environmental heritage. RSPN strives to empower local communities and build a sense of ownership in sustainably managing their environment through their engagement in planning, decision-making and project implementation.

If you happen to visit the following places, don’t miss the opportunity to experience authentic taste of rural Bhutan.

Ready for the perfect holiday getaways? Look no further! Gumti Ecotourism in Dagana District is now open to offer you unforgettable experiences.

Embark on a three km nature trail that leads you deep into the heart of nature, where you will discover breathtaking views of the Sunkosh river and seize the rare opportunity to see the Critically endangered White-bellied Heron from our tree-top observation tower. Our campsite is equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including toilets, bathrooms, and a kitchen attached with dining area. Plus, don’t miss out on our perfect picnic spot for a cherished outing with family and friends!

This Gumti Ecotourism is managed by a team of talented young individuals, and for reservations, contact us at +97517458891 and follow their Facebook page- Gumti Ecotourism for exciting updates.

We would like to thank Tsendagang Gewog, Dagana Dzongkhag Administration and Dagana Forest Division for their continued support.