A humble fruit is transforming livelihoods in Thridangbi village under Saling Gewog, as residents embrace banana processing to unlock significantly higher earnings. By turning fresh bananas into crispy chips, local producers are not only increasing their income but also overcoming the long-standing problem of spoilage caused by Monggar’s warm climate.
Blessed with fertile land and a favourable climate, Thridangbi farmers cultivate a wide range of crops and fruits. In recent years, banana farming has gained momentum, with many growers choosing to supply their harvest to small-scale processors rather than selling the fruit fresh. The shift has proven profitable: while a raw banana might fetch around Nu 10, processed chips can bring in as much as Nu 60 per packet.
At the centre of this growing venture is 28-year-old Phuntsho Wangmo, who spends her days carefully transforming unripe bananas into golden, crunchy snacks. She purchases bananas from the local market at Nu 3 each, peels and washes them, slices the fruit thinly, and fries the pieces in hot oil for about ten minutes. One banana can produce more than a single packet of chips, further boosting profit margins.
“Processing has made a big difference,” Phuntsho said. “The demand for chips is higher than for raw bananas, and they last longer too. We don’t have to worry about them going bad.”
Phuntsho also manages a small sales counter attached to the public restrooms along the Bumthang-Monggar highway. The spot has become a convenient marketplace where she and other vendors sell banana chips, flattened corn, and various local products to passing travellers.
Keen to improve her business, Phuntsho recently attended a training programme on packaging and labelling in Monggar town. She plans to move away from simple plastic wrapping and introduce proper, attractive packaging. “I’ve already contacted a trainer to help source suitable materials. Once I get them, I’ll upgrade the packaging so the product looks more professional,” she said.
The venture has inspired others in the community as well. Dorji Wangmo, who began making banana chips just last year, shared how the business spread through word of mouth. “Phuntsho initially asked me to help her make some chips. Later, I started selling on TikTok Live and began receiving orders from places as far as Trongsa,” she said.
Travellers have also taken notice. Dorji Lhaden, a passer-by, praised the locally made snack. “This is my first time trying banana chips, and they’re really good. Since they’re made here without additives, I feel they’re healthier too,” she remarked.
With rising demand and growing participation from local women, the banana chip enterprise is fast becoming a promising source of income for Thridangbi. Residents believe the initiative will continue to support farmers, empower small vendors, and offer visitors a taste of authentic, locally produced flavours from Monggar’s countryside.
