Bhutan hosted the first-ever Manas Winter Festival in Panbang on February 22–23, coinciding with the King’s birthday celebrations on February 21. Designed as an eco-friendly event, the festival eliminated plastic use, replacing it with sustainable materials like banana leaves, bamboo, and cane, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Bhutan’s ancestral lifestyle.
The festival highlighted Bhutanese traditions, featuring folk music, cultural performances, and local cuisine. Visitors explored stalls showcasing regional delicacies, beverages, and organic produce. Organizers emphasised that the event aimed to strengthen India-Bhutan diplomatic and cultural ties, attracting a significant number of Indian tourists and local residents.
A key attraction was a wildlife exhibition by the Royal Manas National Park’s Forest Department, displaying photographs of native species, including snake varieties and tiger footprints. The exhibition underscored Bhutan’s commitment to conservation and eco-tourism.
As part of its tourism development efforts, the Bhutanese government has enhanced infrastructure near the Twin Waterfalls, a scenic site near Panbang, improving accessibility and visitor engagement. The success of the Manas Winter Festival reinforces Bhutan’s position as a hub for sustainable tourism and cultural exchange.
