The 12th Jomolhari Mountain Festival kicked off at Dangochong, Soe Gewog, approximately 4,100 metres above sea level, bringing together highland communities, conservation partners, and visitors to celebrate Bhutan’s rich mountain heritage.
Coinciding with the Bhutan Foundation’s 40th anniversary, this year’s festival marked an important milestone with the launch of the Jomolhari Mountain Festival Sustainability Plan and the Foundation’s contribution of Nu. 1 million in seed funding to secure the festival’s long-term future.
Developed through collaboration among Thimphu Dzongkhag, Lingzhi Dungkhag, Bhutan Foundation, Jigme Dorji National Park, Department of Tourism, and Paro Dzongkhag, the plan sets out a roadmap for a financially resilient, community-owned, and environmentally responsible festival. It aims to reduce dependence on annual fundraising while strengthening local ownership and creating lasting economic opportunities for highland communities.
First initiated in 2013 by the Bhutan Foundation and Jigme Dorji National Park, the festival has grown into an important platform for celebrating highland culture, promoting responsible tourism, and strengthening community support for snow leopard conservation. The two-day celebration brings together communities from Soe, Lingzhi, Yaksa, and Nubri, showcasing traditional songs, dances, games, local products, and the unique traditions of Bhutan’s highlands.
The festival also welcomed representatives from the Foundation’s international partner, Snow Leopard Conservancy, who engaged with local communities and conservation partners to promote awareness and share experiences in protecting the elusive snow leopard, often called the Ghost of the Mountains. On its opening day, the festival welcomed more than 230 international visitors and 250 local participants.
The Bhutan Foundation extends its appreciation to Thimphu Dzongkhag, Lingzhi Dungkhag, the Department of Forests and Park Services, Department of Tourism, Paro Dzongkhag, Snow Leopard Conservancy, and the highland communities for their continued partnership and commitment.
As the Bhutan Foundation celebrates 40 years of partnership and service to Bhutan, this milestone reflects a shared vision: a festival sustained by its communities, rooted in cultural heritage, and committed to conserving the extraordinary Jomolhari landscape.
