Explore Nature Responsibly and Sustainably
Bhutan is leading the way in eco-tourism, offering travelers a unique opportunity to explore its untouched landscapes while supporting environmental conservation and local communities. With over 70% forest cover, abundant wildlife, and a vast network of protected areas, Bhutan is committed to preserving its natural beauty through sustainable tourism practices.
Guided by the principles of Gross National Happiness, eco-tourism in Bhutan emphasizes responsible travel that respects culture, conserves nature, and enhances the well-being of its people. From wildlife safaris and birdwatching to community-based homestays and nature hikes, Bhutan invites you to connect deeply with its pristine environment. Discover a world where your travel choices contribute to the protection of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage for generations to come.
Bhutan is on a mission to become a premier ecotourism destination, championing sustainable tourism that respects the environment and local communities. With over 70% forest cover, abundant biodiversity, and protected natural areas, Bhutan offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience pristine nature while supporting conservation efforts and the well-being of its people. Guided by the principles of Gross National Happiness, Bhutan’s ecotourism policy emphasizes ‘high-value, low-volume’ tourism, ensuring that natural beauty is preserved for future generations.
The Department of Tourism’s GEF Ecotourism Project promotes sustainable tourism across protected areas like Bumdeling and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuaries, boosting rural economies through wildlife-based tourism, homestays, birdwatching, and nature-focused activities. Key flagship species include the endangered red pandas, black-necked cranes, golden langurs, and the striking Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory butterfly.
Wildlife and Nature Experiences in Bhutan:
– Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory: The national butterfly of Bhutan, found in Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, is best seen in August and September.
– Black-necked Cranes: These rare birds symbolize good fortune and are spotted in Phobjikha Valley, Bumthang, and Bumdeling during winter.
– Red Panda: A lucky sight in Bhutan, red pandas inhabit temperate Himalayan forests and are present in multiple protected areas.
– Golden Langur: These endangered primates are often seen near Zhemgang and are protected within Bhutan’s national parks.
– Birdwatching: With over 700 bird species, including some of the rarest in the world, Bhutan is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering glimpses of the majestic Imperial Heron and other vulnerable species.
Bhutan’s approach to ecotourism ensures that your adventure not only connects you with nature but also contributes to the preservation of its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Experience Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism and discover a world where nature and tradition coexist harmoniously.
Catch, Release, and Conserve
Bhutan’s pristine rivers are home to two types of Mahseer: the chocolate and the golden mahseer. Revered for its majestic golden hue and challenging fight, the golden mahseer is one of the world’s most prized catches among anglers. This migratory fish reaches elevations of up to 1000 meters during the spawning season in summer and returns to lower elevations in winter. Bhutan’s commitment to environmental protection and the cultural reverence for the species have allowed the golden mahseer to flourish, even as populations decline elsewhere.
To boost local income and promote sustainable practices, Bhutan has embraced recreational catch-and-release fishing for the golden mahseer. Following extensive research and the recommendations from the International Mahseer Conference held in Bhutan, the ban on Mahseer fishing was lifted in February 2022, allowing fishing exclusively for catch and immediate release.
Fishing for the golden mahseer in Bhutan requires a permit from the Department of Forests and Park Services and, for foreign anglers, a certified local fishing guide. The best times for fishing are between March and June, and September to November. Experience the thrill of catching one of the world’s hardest fighting fish while supporting Bhutan’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.