DISCOVER BHUTAN: Punakha Unveils Thrilling Night River Rafting Experience

Under the enchanting glow of moonlight, the tranquil waters of the Punatshangchhu River transform into a playground for adventure seekers. Punakha has recently introduced a novel attraction that blends excitement with serenity: night and evening river rafting. This unique offering allows tourists to explore the district’s scenic beauty under a canopy of stars, marking a significant addition to Bhutan’s burgeoning tourism landscape.

Launched in August 2024, the night rafting initiative is spearheaded by MyBhutan, the country’s sole authorized travel agency, in partnership with the Punakha Dzongkhag Administration. This collaboration has granted MyBhutan exclusive rights to conduct night rafting excursions, positioning Punakha as a premier destination for nocturnal adventure activities.

The new rafting experience presents two distinct options for thrill-seekers: after-dark rafting and the evening river experience. Both options provide a harmonious blend of adrenaline and tranquility, allowing participants to witness Punakha’s stunning landscapes in a completely new light.

“Yeshi Dorji, Assistant Economic Development and Marketing Officer, highlighted the initiative’s goals, stating, ‘The introduction of night rafting is designed to broaden Punakha’s tourism offerings and attract a greater number of visitors to Bhutan.’ Dorji emphasized that safety remains the utmost priority, with comprehensive measures in place to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Safety protocols for night rafting are meticulously implemented. Rafts are equipped with ample lighting to enhance visibility and are constructed with OAR frames for added stability. Each raft is furnished with handheld communication devices, and all guests must wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) that feature safety lights activated upon contact with water. Additionally, an advance raft is stationed ahead of guest rafts to provide immediate assistance if needed. Only certified rafters with a minimum of one year’s experience in night and evening rafting operations are employed, ensuring expert guidance throughout the journey.

The rafts themselves are specially designed with covered wooden frames to bolster safety during nighttime excursions. Night rafting is seasonally available, operating only when river currents are stable, as the strong flows during the summer monsoon season render the activity unsafe.

Economically, the initiative is poised to make a substantial impact. “Traditionally, tourists visit Punakha for day trips,” Dorji explained, “but with the introduction of night rafting, visitors might extend their stays, thereby increasing overnight accommodations and boosting local revenue.”

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been established between MyBhutan and the Punakha Dzongkhag to facilitate the ongoing development and enhancement of night rafting activities. While MyBhutan currently holds exclusive rights, the agreement stipulates that after five years, other qualified travel agents may be permitted to offer night rafting, provided they meet stringent licensing criteria, including holding a decade-long operational license.

As night rafting gains traction, there are plans to potentially expand this offering to other rafting locations across Bhutan, contingent on its success in Punakha. However, authorities remain vigilant about balancing tourist experiences with environmental preservation, acknowledging that night activities could pose greater ecological disturbances compared to daytime operations. “Night rafting incurs higher costs due to the additional safety measures and resources required,” Dorji noted, “but we are committed to minimizing our ecological footprint.”

Punakha’s pioneering venture into night rafting is set to attract a diverse array of tourists, eager to experience the region’s natural splendor in a novel and unforgettable way. In addition to the Punatshangchhu, daytime rafting continues to thrive on the Mochhu and Phochhu rivers, catering to both locals and international visitors. Other popular rafting destinations in Bhutan include Amochhu in Chhukha, Pachhu in Paro, and Drangmechhu in Zhemgang.

Currently, Punakha boasts six rafting operators, complemented by one each in Paro, Zhemgang, and Chhukha. The Mochhu River rafting route stretches from Yoebisa Bridge to Changyul, conveniently located a short drive from the historic Punakha Dzong. Previously extending to the Phochu-Mochu confluence below the Dzong, the route was shortened in September 2018 to comply with the core area regulations of the Punakha Dzong Management Plan.

Tourists can embark on these exhilarating rafting adventures for a fee of Nu 10,000 per trip, offering a remarkable way to engage with Bhutan’s pristine rivers and picturesque landscapes. As Punakha leads the charge with this innovative adventure, the district is poised to enhance its reputation as a must-visit destination, where nature, peace, and thrill converge under the night sky.

Total
0
Shares
Related Posts