Laya, a remote village in Bhutan renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine natural beauty, gained attention after Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck initiated the Royal Highland Festival.
The festival has attracted over 2,000 visitors, highlighting the village’s commitment to preserving its environment and heritage.
The popularity of the Royal Highland Festival has posed a significant challenge for Laya, bringing to light issues such as managing the high influx of visitors while preserving the culture, environment, and well-being of its citizens.
The solution lies in the principles of ecotourism, a responsible and sustainable approach to travel that aligns with Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness and implements a “high-value, low-volume” tourism policy.
To achieve this, the Dzongkhag (district) and Gewog (block) administrations collaborate with the local community, giving them responsibilities throughout the preparation, during and after the festival.
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The local community actively participates in the festival, ensuring the sustainability and success of the festival. Each household takes turns alternately volunteering for two days during the preparations while children rally together to clean the neighborhood after the festival.
The De-supps, a volunteer organization in Bhutan, aids in waste management by collecting trash from the festival ground and ensuring proper disposal.
Also, the homestays offer a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the life of the local Layap people. The visitors get insights into their daily lives and a taste of the local food.
With 74 out of the 280 households providing homestay accommodations, Laya ensures fair pricing determined by the committee members. Through all these efforts, Laya demonstrates sustainable and responsible tourism, all while safeguarding its environment and cultural heritage.
“As Bhutan’s Royal Highland Festival demonstrates, it is indeed possible to strike a harmonious balance between tourism and conservation, all while ensuring the well-being and happiness of its citizens,” Bhutan Live reported.
