Bhutan champions Waddling Tour, an activity that's completely new in tourism

Bhutan is in the midst of developing new tourism products. The country is gearing up to make the tourism industry in the Kingdom to be more vibrant.

Bhutan champions Waddling Tour, an activity that's completely new in tourism
The latest tourism product that has been launched recently in Bhutan is known as the "waddling" tour.
 
The waddling tour is initiated by the Guide Association of Bhutan (GAB). According to the chairman of GAB, Sir Garab Dorji, waddling tour is the first of its kind in Bhutan or perhaps even in the world. A waddling tour is a type of tour in which people walk through the streams or small rivers, wearing gumboots. Imagine taking short steps while swaying and enjoying the streams with gumboots on. Capitalizing on the country's natural environment, the activity aims to attract both locals and tourists.

Local Waddlers

Local Waddlers 
To commemorate the Guide Association of Bhutan 12th Foundation Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lyonpo Tandi Dorji, who is also Chairperson of Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) and Director-General of TCB, Dasho Dorji Dradhul launched the waddling tour on 14 March 2021. Around 20 waddling enthusiasts, both old and young, joined to experience the waddling tour during the formal launch.
 
For now, not all the streams in the capital are adopted as waddling spots except the Thujidra stream that flows through Upper Motithang. The stream is adopted by GAB and this will henceforth be a Waddling Trail, the trail is also known as Ancient Takin Trail.
Members of Guides Association of Bhutan
Members of Guides Association of Bhutan  

The trail
is built along Thujidra Rongchu from the Tourism Council of Bhutan office next to Thimchhu to starting point of Drukpath Trek at the base of Phajoding. The trail is divided into different phases of development. For now, the first phase has been completed. Many nature enthusiasts are seen hiking and cycling on the trail. To add more recreational value to the trail, waddling tour was incorporated to give hikers a water sport experience.
 
The urbanites in Thimphu can now experience the waddling tour. There is a minimal charge of Nu 50 per person to waddle on the Thujidra stream along the Ancient Takin Trail. Both kids and families can walk in the stream during spring and autumn with warm socks and gumboots. Each waddler will be given a pair of gumboots to walk through the stream. Each tour is properly guided by the guides from the Guide Association of Bhutan to ensure that it's safe and enjoyable.

 

the Thujidra stream along the Ancient Takin Trail

The Ancient Takin Trail is managed, maintained, and adopted by the GAB and supported by Shercol class of 89 Fresher, 11th grade), and funded by the Bhutan Trust Fund and Tourism council of Bhutan. GAB along with Shercol class of 89 cleaned, built waterfalls and parks along the trail from Motithang open gym till the Takin Preserve Park vehicle parking area.  

Making the Trail
Making the Trail  

Today, the communities from all walks of life are taking care of the nature-based trail. On weekends, hikers, cyclists, yoga practitioners, and picnic-goers are seen along the trail. It is increasingly gaining popularity in the capital city of Thimphu.

The Ancient Takin Trail and Waddling Spot

The Ancient Takin Trail and Waddling Spot
The Ancient Takin Trail and Waddling Spot  

Amid the pandemic when Bhutan closed its border for tourism, the Guide Association of Bhutan has been working along the trail for the last 11 months. The guides have also been actively embarking on cleaning campaign all over the country. It is with the hope that Bhutan tourism industry will become even more vibrant when the borders reopen. One of the initiatives include the makeover of the trail towards the iconic landmark, Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest Monastery).



Related Posts

The trail to Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery gets a new...

The Taktsang monastery was built around the holy caves in Paro by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye. He founded the monastery by...

Feb 05, 2021 20:29

Destination Chhukha - New upcoming tourist destination in Bhutan...

Tourists can look forward to new tourist attractions, trekking routes and local produce from Chhukha district.

Mar 09, 2021 12:20

Is Bhutan Ready for Crypto Tourism? What the GMC Talks Revealed

Discover how Bhutan is embracing Binance Pay to boost crypto tourism, making travel payments easier, faster, and more...

Jul 02, 2025 17:38

Bhutan’s Bhutan Believe Film Wins Silver at 2025 US International...

Discover how Bhutan’s national brand film Bhutan Believe captured the silver award at the 2025 US International Awards,...

Jun 27, 2025 17:26

Bhutan Unveils Its Most Advanced Integrated Check Post at Gelephu

Bhutan’s largest and most advanced Integrated Check Post in Gelephu nears completion, promising smarter border control,...

Jun 17, 2025 13:08

Bhutan Launches ‘Bhutan for Wellbeing’ Initiative to Cement Its...

Bhutan launches its 'Bhutan for Wellbeing' tourism initiative in Haa, blending traditional practices and modern...

Jun 16, 2025 10:20

Latest

News

From Vision to Runway: Gelephu International Airport Breaks Ground

Bhutan has begun construction on its second international airport in Gelephu, marking a major milestone in the country’s development. Set to...

Jul 09, 2025 10:49

First 2025 Gyalsung Cohort Completes National Service Training

Bhutan’s first 2025 Gyalsung cohort has completed their three-month National Service training with a grand Passing Out Parade attended by...

Jul 01, 2025 15:33

Features

Where to Eat in Punakha: The Most Popular Restaurants and Local Eateries You Must Try

Discover the best places to eat in Punakha, from traditional Bhutanese restaurants to local bistro. Taste authentic flavours and enjoy...

Jul 07, 2025 11:34

Passion and Purpose: A Bhutanese Woman’s 14-Year Journey in Tourism

Meet Chencho Lham, a seasoned Bhutanese tour guide from Paro, as she shares her 14-year journey of leading travellers through sacred...

Jun 18, 2025 15:20

Business

High Altitude, Higher Ambitions: Bhutan Enters the Wine World

Bhutan has officially stepped onto the global wine stage with the debut of The Himalayan, a record-breaking 7.57-litre bottle auctioned by...

May 23, 2025 16:38

Most Popular Bars in Thimphu

Discover Thimphu’s vibrant nightlife, where traditional Bhutanese drinks meet modern cocktails in the city’s top bars and lounges. Unwind...

Feb 10, 2025 16:14

Sports

Zimbiri Makes History as First Bhutanese Woman Elected to SAFF Executive Committee

Zimbiri has made history as the first Bhutanese woman elected to the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Executive Committee, a landmark...

May 28, 2025 10:49

Bhutan Cricket's New Milestone: The Inaugural Indoor Cricket Academy

The Bhutan Cricket Council Board (BCCB) inaugurated its inaugural indoor cricket academy on 20th December, with the objective of ensuring...

Dec 21, 2023 14:57

Travel

Is Bhutan Ready for Crypto Tourism? What the GMC Talks Revealed

Discover how Bhutan is embracing Binance Pay to boost crypto tourism, making travel payments easier, faster, and more secure for...

Jul 02, 2025 17:38

Bhutan’s Bhutan Believe Film Wins Silver at 2025 US International Awards

Discover how Bhutan’s national brand film Bhutan Believe captured the silver award at the 2025 US International Awards, celebrating a fresh...

Jun 27, 2025 17:26

Lifestyle

Bhutan Celebrates World Music Day with a Soulful Gathering in Thimphu

Bhutan marked World Music Day with a vibrant concert in Thimphu, featuring over 90 artists despite the rain. Discover how music is shaping...

Jun 23, 2025 16:37

What's in a Name? Discover Bhutan's Unique Naming Tradition

In Bhutan, names are traditionally given by monks and not tied to family lineage. Visitors can experience a traditional naming ceremony at...

Jun 03, 2025 14:04

Subscribe to our newsletter

Never miss out on new happenings and news stories!

newsletter

Download Daily Bhutan Mobile App

Connecting with us just got easier!

android app
apple app