A glimpse of Merak and Sakteng
In what is an entirely new cultural tour package, Rainbow Tours and Treks is taking tourists closer to nomadic herders of Merak and Sakteng in Trashigang.
In a symbolic opening of culturally rich villages of Trashigang like Radhi, Phongmey, Merak and Sakteng to tourists, the people of Merak and Sakteng came to Phongmey with their unique cultural heritage on April 7.
Among the highlights of the programme were Yak Cham and Achey Lhamo Cham of Merak and Sakteng presented by Brokpas at their traditional best.
“Although Merak and Sakteng have not been opened to tourists, we have managed to bring their enchantment to Phongmey,” said Sonam Wangmo, Managing Director of Rainbow Tours and Treks, who is from Sakteng.
Some 150 villagers converged to Phongmey Lhakhang, where the event was held, to sell their handicraft and textile items at much higher prices.
Sonam Wangmo said, although there were some handicrafts in Trashigang town, she recommended tourists to buy them directly from the villagers at a cheaper rate which benefited the villagers.
“This will help farmers earn some hard cash which can be otherwise earned only by breaking stones on the roadsides,” she said.
Langmo, 32, who managed to sell her new sari (shawl used for carrying baby) at an inflated price, was so happy that she wanted to weave more to boost her family income. Her sari, which would have fetched only Nu 1000 in Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh in India), was sold at Nu 2000.
Radhi and Phongmey are known for their silk textile, but it was only recently that the villages were introduced to tourists.
Robin Smillie, Director of Rainbow Photo Tour based in Florida, said he felt the spirit and Sakteng the hard work of the villagers in hand-woven textiles. “Paying more dollars is worth it,” he said, adding that even after nine visits to Bhutan, the country still offered him serendipitous enthrallment.
Another tourist, Lian Decesare, said he was moved by the natural setting and the people of Phongmey that he wanted to come back with his family before it underwent a change.
Karchung, 43, from Sakteng said he was happy to showcase his unique culture and earn extra income.Tshewang Rinzin, 32, from Phongmey said, if such a programme was organized in the future, the people of Phongmey and neighbouring areas would greatly benefit.
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