Nestled in the northern frontiers of the picturesque Phobjikha Valley lies the quaint village of Gogona, where time seems to slow down, and tradition weaves its way into the fabric of daily life. This idyllic hamlet has become renowned for its exquisite production of fine hardened Swiss cheese and other dairy products, a tale that traces its roots back to the early 1980s when an extraordinary endeavor began with support from the Swiss government.
At the heart of this story is the Gogona Gonor Yargay Chethuen Detshen, a farmer’s cooperative, driven by the aspiration to augment their income amid the challenges posed by the village’s high altitude and harsh climatic conditions that limited agricultural practices. In their pursuit of sustainable livelihoods, the farmers embarked on a remarkable journey – the establishment of a milk-processing plant.
The dairy cooperative commenced with modest beginnings, but their determination and the unwavering support from the Swiss government gradually bore fruit. Today, they boast a sizeable herd of high-breed milking heifers and bulls, a testament to their dedication. Moreover, the government stepped in with generous provisions, providing them with subsidized machinery and individual pasturelands, further propelling their endeavors.
Every day, the farmers diligently collect an average of 300 liters of fresh milk, laying the foundation for the delectable dairy products that Gogona is known for. The cheese production, ranging from 300 to 400 kg per month, has earned the village a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship.
While the dairy plant produces conventional butter and cheese, what sets them apart is their venture into crafting western hard cheeses like Gouda and Emmental Cheese, along with a selection of delightful yogurts. These tantalizing treats find their way to the local markets, where they are embraced by the community and savored by visitors exploring the beauty of Bhutan. The cheese’s reputation has even extended beyond the country’s borders, with a small portion being exported to third countries, bearing the flavors of Gogona to foreign shores.
The cheese processing at Gogona’s milk plant adheres to strict guidelines on clean milk production, ensuring that each product reflects the purity of the Himalayan landscape from which it originates. The commitment to maintaining high standards and preserving the authenticity of their craft has been the cornerstone of their success.
Today, the Gogona milk processing plant stands tall as a model farmer’s dairy cooperative, a source of pride not just for the village but for the entire nation. The spirit of ingenuity and resilience demonstrated by the cooperative has inspired similar endeavors in other parts of Bhutan, fostering a ripple effect of progress and prosperity in rural communities. As tourists traverse the enchanting landscapes of Phobjikha valley, they are greeted not only by the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas but also by the tantalizing aromas of Swiss cheese. Gogona has etched its mark on Bhutan’s culinary map, a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people and their unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage.
In a world where traditional practices often fade away in the face of modernity, the story of Gogona stands as a reminder that the roots of culture and heritage run deep. As the villagers of Gogona continue to craft their fine Swiss cheese, they uphold their identity and celebrate the essence of Bhutan’s rural spirit – a spirit that thrives on embracing the past while creating a brighter future for generations to come.
