The National Centre for Traditional Medicine Services (NCTMS), with support from the Bhutan Foundation, conducted a three-day Elderly Traditional Medicine Health Camp from 2–4 March 2026 at Goensho Kaepeling (Dratshang Elderly Centre) in Tsochasa, Punakha District. The camp served more than 50 senior monks under the care of the Zhung Dratshang.
As part of NCTMS’s quarterly outreach initiative, the camp focused on promoting healthy ageing and improving access to traditional healthcare for elderly monastic communities, many of whom face mobility challenges and age-related conditions.
Over the course of three days, practitioners provided consultations and diagnostic assessments along with a range of traditional treatments. These included massage therapy, Numtsuk (Warm Oil Compression), cupping, Serkhab (Golden Needle Therapy), dry needling, Langdhug (Herbal Streaming), Sorig Luejong, and the dispensing of medicines. The treatments addressed chronic conditions such as joint pain, digestive disorders, sleep disturbances, diabetes-related complications, and other ailments commonly associated with ageing.
For residents of the centre, the health camp significantly reduced the need to travel long distances for care. The nearest hospital is more than 15 kilometres away, and the round trip can take up to two hours.
“At my age, travelling by vehicle is difficult due to motion sickness. Here, we are able to receive treatment and medicines without having to travel or stand in long queues,” shared an 85-year-old monk.
Another resident, aged 76, who had been experiencing severe calf pain, reported noticeable improvement after receiving massage therapy. “I can now sit properly and feel much better. I am grateful for this service,” he said.
By bringing traditional healthcare directly to those in need, the initiative helps ensure dignity, comfort, and continuity of care for Bhutan’s elderly monastic community.
