The Royal Highland Festival reached unprecedented heights this year, drawing more than 2,500 participants and marking a significant increase from last year’s 1,000 attendees. Established in 2016 by His Majesty the King, the annual event is a vibrant celebration of the highlands’ unique culture and stunning landscapes.
Set against the majestic backdrop of Tendrelthang plateau, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, the festival took place on October 23 and 24 in the remote village of Laya, Gasa. This year, the event attracted over 200 international visitors eager to experience Bhutan’s rich highland traditions firsthand.
His Majesty the King honored the occasion with his presence, extending heartfelt thanks to both tourists and local guests for their participation. “It is heartening to see such enthusiasm for our highland heritage,” His Majesty remarked during his address.
Among the newcomers was Thomas, a 35-year-old traveler from Holland, who trekked from Jomolhari to Laya specifically for the festival. “The pristine environment here is breathtaking,” he shared. “The journey was exhilarating, and I can’t wait to bring my family here next time.”
Kendra, a 27-year-old journalist and filmmaker visiting Bhutan for the first time, expressed her awe at the cultural displays. “Laya’s traditions are unlike anything I’ve seen before. Today has been a dream come true for me,” she said, capturing the essence of many first-time visitors’ experiences.
Dorji Wangdi, a local from Lunana, made a three-day trek to attend the festival for the first time. “I’ve always wanted to be part of this event, and I’m thrilled to finally experience it,” he stated with evident joy.
The festival featured representations from 10 yak-rearing dzongkhags, each showcasing their distinctive customs and locally crafted goods. Over 17 tents were set up by highlanders from various regions, offering products such as chugo (dried cheese), butter, and unique textiles, highlighting Bhutan’s diverse highland heritage.
Economic benefits for the Layaps were significant, as Gup Tshewang, the dzongkhag Thrizin, explained. “Visitors rely on our horses for transport, earning us Nu 300 per trip. Additionally, a horse ride from Taktsemakha to Laya costs Nu 1,000, providing essential income.”
Accommodation during the festival was in high demand, with homestays fully booked. Rates ranged from Nu 900 per person for larger households to Nu 1,200 for smaller ones. Moreover, locals earned an additional Nu 1,500 per tourist by setting up camping tents, regulated by committee members from the dzongkhag and gewog.
The festival was not only a cultural extravaganza but also a hub for competitive sports. Highlights included horse racing, ramp-walking, wrestling, and a highland animal parade. The popular 25-kilometre Laya Run concluded yesterday with Choki Dorji, a Royal Body Guard, winning the men’s category and Sonam Choden, 27, from Laya, taking first place among women.
As night fell, attendees gathered for a lively bonfire party, celebrating the day’s successes and fostering community spirit. The festivities are set to continue with the Snowman Race starting at 7 a.m. today from Tendrelthang. Sixteen runners, including seven Bhutanese athletes, will brave one of the world’s toughest races, beginning at Tarina at an elevation of 4,120 metres and culminating in Bumthang on October 28.
The Royal Highland Festival continues to be a beacon of Bhutan’s cultural pride and natural splendor, promising even greater participation and celebration in the years to come.
