Bhutan Partners

Ability Bhutan Society

Buddhist Art & Cultural Conservation Center

The Buddhist Art & Cultural Conservation Centre (BACCC) in Thimphu is dedicated to preserving Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage. It works closely with the Central Monastic Body to conserve sacred relics, Buddhist art, and cultural artifacts. BACCC digitizes and catalogs sacred objects from over 2,000 monasteries across Bhutan, ensuring their protection. The center also trains monk conservators and collaborates with organizations like the Druk Foundation for Art Preservation. Through these efforts, BACCC plays a vital role in safeguarding Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual heritage for future generations.

Bhutan Center For Media and Democracy

Bhutan Ecological Society

Bhutan for Life

Bhutan for Life is an initiative dedicated to promoting sustainable development in Bhutan through effective natural resource management and environmental conservation. The program emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with ecological sustainability, focusing on community engagement and responsible stewardship of Bhutan’s unique biodiversity. Bhutan for Life aims to empower local communities by implementing conservation projects, educational initiatives, and programs that enhance livelihoods while protecting the environment. By integrating cultural values with environmental practices, the initiative strives to preserve Bhutan’s heritage and foster a sustainable future for generations to come.

Bhutan Institute of Wellbeing

Bhutan Tiger Center

Bhutan Trust Fund For Environment Conservation

The Bhutan Media Foundation was established through a Royal Charter issued by His Majesty the King on 21 February 2010 to foster the growth of a strong, responsible media capable of playing an important role in the social, economic and political growth of the nation. It is mandated to strengthen the media so that they may carry out their duties, without fear and favour, in the interest of democracy.

The Foundation is mandated to foster and strengthen professionalism, support advocacy and policy, promote media development through training, scholarships, media literacy, and policy advocacy. It supports the sustainability and growth of newspapers and broadcast stations, journalists associations and press clubs.

Bhutan Water Partnership

Bhutan Water Partnership (BhWP) is a consortium of water professionals working towards achieving Integrated Water Resource Management goals through coordinated development and management of water, land, and related resources to maximize economic and social welfare without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems. BhWP was established on 27th August 2001 as an inter-ministerial body to coordinate all water resource protection, development, and management programs.

BhWP is a not-for-profit organization affiliated with Global Water Partnership and Since 2007, BhWP was housed at the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN). Currently, BhWP is governed by a ten-member steering committee comprising water and the environment from both government and non-governmental organizations.

The Bhutan Foundation collaborates with BhWP in implementing two communities project under our small grant program towards improving access to water for drinking, sanitation, and small-scale irrigation through the promotion of roof rainwater harvesting and installation of water infrastructure.

Bhutan Yak Federation

The Bhutan Yak Federation was established to promote yak farming as a vibrant and sustainable program for highlanders in Bhutan. Its mission includes ensuring the aggregation, standardization, quality assurance, and cooperative marketing of yak products, while also enhancing the brand value of Bhutanese yak products on national and global platforms. A key goal of the federation is to empower highland communities through improved governance and decision-making processes, thereby enhancing their livelihoods and living environments.

Bhutan Youth Development Fund

Bumthang Dzongkhag Administration

Central Monastic Body

The Central Monastic Body is the principal religious authority in Bhutan, responsible for overseeing and managing the country’s monastic institutions and spiritual practices. Established to preserve and promote the rich Buddhist heritage of Bhutan, the institution plays a vital role in maintaining the spiritual and cultural identity of the nation. The Central Monastic Body oversees the training and education of monks, manages the administration of monasteries, and coordinates religious festivals and ceremonies throughout the country.

Under the leadership of the Je Khenpo, the chief abbot, the Central Monastic Body contributes to the promotion of religious values, community welfare, and social harmony. It works in collaboration with other institutions and the government to ensure that Bhutan’s unique traditions and Buddhist teachings are upheld and integrated into daily life. By fostering the spiritual growth of its citizens, the Central Monastic Body plays an essential role in Bhutan’s overall well-being and commitment to Gross National Happiness.

College of Natural Resources

The College of Natural Resources was established in 1992 as Natural Resource Training Institute under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests to promote economic development and nature conservation.  With the establishment of the Royal University of Bhutan in 2003, the institute formally registered as a constituent college under the Royal University of Bhutan. Today, CNR offers broad-based programs in natural resources management at the diploma and undergraduate levels. The college has also started to provide Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) beginning July 2014, and recent college has already begun to provide Master’s in Natural Resources Management.

CNR’s vision is to generate knowledge through research in Natural Resource Management, Rural Development, and Environmental Science and become a dynamic, internationally recognized, and reputed center of learning that will contribute to its sustainable development education, research, and professional services.

Starting the 2020-2021 academic session, Bhutan Foundation has initiated a scholarship program supporting two in-service Bhutanese candidates from government and civil society organizations annually to study at CNR at bachelor’s degree or master’s degree level in the environment, climate studies, forestry, and natural resources management programs

College of Science and Technology

Department of Energy

Department of Forest & Park Services

The Disabled People’s Organization (DPO)

Founded in 2010 as a public benefit organization, the Disabled People’s Organization (DPO), formerly the Disabled Persons’ Association of Bhutan (DPAB), works in close partnership with the Royal Government of Bhutan to advance the rights and opportunities for persons with disabilities in Bhutan. DPOB is dedicated to:
– Providing better tools, facilities, and services to citizens with disabilities.
– Equipping individuals with strategies and techniques to live fulfilling and productive lives.
– Building public awareness about the rights of all people, regardless of ability.
– Diminishing the stigma associated with disabilities in Bhutanese society.

DPOB collaborates with the Bhutan Foundation to improve access to resources for individuals with disabilities and supports their transition into jobs, promoting independent living.

Draktsho Vocational Training Center for Special Children and Youth

Faculty of Traditional Medicine

Guengaling Community Cooperatives

Innovate Bhutan

Innovate Bhutan is an initiative aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Bhutan, promoting a culture of creativity and collaboration to address social and economic challenges. The organization serves as a platform for ideas, connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders across various sectors. Innovate Bhutan supports the development of startups and micro-entreprises through training, mentorship, and resources, empowering local communities to drive sustainable development.

By facilitating workshops, competitions, and networking events, Innovate Bhutan encourages the sharing of knowledge and best practices, helping to nurture a vibrant ecosystem of innovation in the country. The initiative is committed to leveraging Bhutan’s unique cultural and environmental assets to create impactful solutions that benefit society and promote economic growth.

Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital

Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWNRH) is Bhutan’s largest medical institution, located in the capital city, Thimphu. It serves as the main referral center for specialized medical care, providing comprehensive healthcare services to patients from across Bhutan. Named after His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the Third King of Bhutan, the hospital offers a wide range of services, including in-patient, out-patient, emergency, and diagnostic care. JDWNRH plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare in Bhutan by offering training and development opportunities for medical professionals and promoting research in the health sector. The hospital is central to Bhutan’s healthcare system, delivering quality medical services and contributing to public health and wellness.

Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super Fab Lab

The Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck Super FabLab, located at Thimphu Tech Park, is an open platform for learning, innovation, and collaboration, offering world-class digital fabrication tools and services. As the 4th Super Fab Lab globally and the 2nd outside the USA, it serves as a hub for creativity, research, and prototyping in Bhutan. Established through a collaboration between Druk Holding and Investments, the Bhutan Foundation, and MIT’s Center for Bits and Atoms, the lab provides cutting-edge resources that empower the community to design, build, and innovate, making it a critical center for technological advancement in the heart of the Himalayas.

Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law

JSW Law, Bhutan’s only law school, was founded to set the standards for legal education, research, and practice, playing a key role in the nation’s development as a vibrant modern democracy. Established by His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck through a Royal Charter on February 21, 2015, the law school reflects His Majesty’s vision of creating a just and content society based on the Rule of Law. JSW Law is committed to providing high-quality legal education, promoting research in law and related fields, and fostering the cultural and traditional values of Bhutan. By equipping future leaders with a deep understanding of legal principles, the school aims to contribute significantly to the country’s legal and societal frameworks.

Katsho Eco Camp

Katsho Eco Camp is established at Damto Katsho, Haa District, 2,750 meters above sea level. The camp would also specialize in hot stone bathing services renowned for many medicinal values for various ailments.

Khedrup Foundation

Khedrup Foundation was founded by Monla Khedrupchen Rinpoche on October 6, 2017 as a non-profit organization in Bhutan. Rinpoche is the head of the Sangchen Ogyen Tsuklag Monastery in Trongsa in Central Bhutan and Phajo Gonpa in Samdrup Jongkhar in Eastern Bhutan. Khedrup Foundation is dedicated to furthering the propagation of Buddha Dharma and the Longchen Nyingthig Lineage through various initiatives with the local community in Trongsa and beyond.

The organization’s humanitarian work includes the Siddhartha Wisdom Club, which creates a supportive environment for young people to learn and grow, while reducing the causes of suicide, connecting them to their natural environment, instilling Buddhist values in their minds, and sharing the wisdom of Buddha Shakyamuni in a practical way. Another initiative called the Monmo Tashi Khyidren Initiative (named after one of Bhutan’s renowned female Buddhist figures) seeks to further the education and wellbeing of children in rural communities, as well as provide basic amenities to the monks of Sangchen Ogyen Tsuklag Monastery. The Foundation also provides retreats for the elderly in the village and organizes retreats for any individual seeking to learn more about the Buddhist way of life. Other initiatives include the Ogyen Tsuklag Buddhist Academy, Rephel Mebar Lhakhang renovation, and Heruka House retreat center.

Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan

The Loden Foundation

Menjong Sorig Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited

Menjong Sorig Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited (MSPCL) is a state-owned enterprise of the Royal Government of Bhutan, entrusted with the mandate to manufacture and supply traditional medicines and herbal health-promoting products. In Bhutan, Sowa Rigpa, the ancient Buddhist system of medicine, is officially recognized by the government as a complementary alternative to modern medicine. MSPCL produces herbal formulations based on the knowledge of Sowa Rigpa science, ensuring the preservation and promotion of this rich medical tradition. Today, there are 66 traditional medicine units and hospitals across the country, providing healthcare services rooted in Sowa Rigpa. MSPCL plays a vital role in supporting this national healthcare system, offering sustainable, high-quality herbal remedies that contribute to holistic health and well-being.

Ministry of Agriculture and Forest

ECCD and Special Education Division, Ministry of Education

The Ministry of Education is tasked with upholding the requirements of the Bhutanese Constitution to provide a cost-free, quality education for all children through the tenth grade, regardless of socioeconomic background, ability, and/or geographic location. The Division for Special Education and Early Childhood Care is responsible for ensuring that all children and youth with disabilities receive education. The division develops programs in twelve schools to serve the needs of children and youth with special needs throughout Bhutan. The success of Bhutan’s Special Education Program is being achieved through a partnership with Disabled Persons’ Association of Bhutan, Ability Bhutan Society, Anderson Center for Autism, AVID (Australian Volunteers for International Development), The Bhutan Canada Foundation, Draktsho Vocational Training Center for Special Children and Youth, Perkins International, UNICEF Bhutan, and the Bhutan Foundation. The Bhutan Foundation has continued to work with all partners involved in the Special Education Program in Bhutan for the last eight years and has primarily partnered with the Ministry of Education in developing the Special Education Program in public schools across 12 schools throughout Bhutan.

Ministry of Finance

Ministry of Foreign Affairs & External Trade

MINISTRY OF HEALTH, ROYAL GOVERNMENT OF BHUTAN

The Ministry of Health works to provide the highest quality medical services to all citizens in Bhutan through both traditional and modern means. The Ministry aims at ensuring sustainable, responsive, equitable, accessible, reliable, and affordable socialized health services to all in Bhutan. The Ministry of Health and the Bhutan Foundation have partnered together on a wide range of health-care service projects throughout Bhutan. These projects have involved mainly emergency, trauma, and lifesaving training. The Foundation has been able to improve the Emergency Medical Services of Bhutan through the support of our international partners, such as the Clinical Data Management, DBA Trauma Program Services LLC, Harvard Humanitarian Initiative, Health Volunteers Overseas, and Phelps Memorial Hospital Center.

Nazhoen Lamtoen

Nazhoen Pelri School

Panbang Youth Cooperative

Phensem Parents Support Group

Phensem Parent Support Group was established informally by a group of parents in 2017 and registered as a CSO in 2020 with the vision of empowering parents and families of children/persons with disabilities in Bhutan. The group also aspires to advocate for positive change on the challenges faced and support parents, families and persons with disabilities. Phensem currently has about 100+ families registered with CWDs and PWDS ranging from 2-28 years of age.

Respect, Educate, Nurture and Empower Women (RENEW)

River Guides of Panbang

The River Guides of Panbang (RGP) is Bhutan’s first community-based rafting company established in 2011 by a group of passionate youths with the financial and technical support of the Bhutan Foundation. The primary focus of the group is to develop and promote environmentally sustainable ecotourism packages including white river rafting. They offer a wide range of services including rafting trips for both local and tourists and hospitality services at Marang Jungle Camp. They accord the highest priority to the safety of guests and are responsible members of the community highly committed to conserving the natural beauty and sanctity of surrounding mountains, valleys and rivers.

RGP provides employment opportunities to the youth while working closely with the Panbang community and schools in promoting organic agriculture, environmental education and awareness, waste management, and sanitation programs.

Royal Society for the Protection of Nature

Royal University of Bhutan

The Royal University of Bhutan (RUB) was launched on 2nd June 2003 to provide tertiary education in Bhutan. The overall rationale of the University as set out in the Royal Charter and Statutes is the “dissemination of knowledge and the advancement of learning through a balanced, well regulated and sound tertiary education system for the economic and cultural development of the Kingdom of Bhutan and to promote the cultural enrichment, personal development and well being of our people.”

The specific objectives of the University are:

• to develop and provide programs of study at tertiary education level, of relevance and good quality which will fulfill the needs of the country for an educated and skilled population, and
• to promote and conduct research, to contribute to the creation of knowledge in an international context, and to promote the transfer of knowledge of relevance to Bhutan.

The vision of the RUB is to become an internationally recognized university steeped in GNH values.

The Lhomon Society

Sherchock Women’s Group

Sherchok Women’s Group, based in Gelephu, Bhutan, empowers rural women through agribusiness. Founded in 2013 and re-established in 2021 by Chhimi Dema, the group collaborates with over 360 farmers to promote locally grown produce and create meaningful employment for women. Through a focus on food processing, packaging, and marketing, they equip women with essential skills to compete in the market. Despite challenges, Sherchok Women’s Group has developed a diverse product range, including pickles, fermented vegetables, and spices, and continues to inspire economic independence and community resilience.

Tarayana Foundation

Thimphu Dzongkhag Administration

Traditional Medicine Hospital

Trongsa Dzongkhag Administration

UNICEF Bhutan

UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) is a United Nations program headquartered in New York City that provides long-term humanitarian and developmental support to mothers and children in the developing world. UNICEF was created with the mission to realize the rights and well-being of the most disadvantaged children (and their mothers) around the world. This is all based on the belief that proper care and developmental support is the best foundation for a person’s future. UNICEF seeks to address the deficiencies in early childhood program development and continued adolescent academic and health education to provide a brighter future for the world’s most vulnerable children. UNICEF is active in 190 countries and territories through country programs and National Committees. UNICEF works closely with its member governments and local NGOs to remove the obstacles that poverty, violence, disease, environmental hazards, and discrimination place in a child’s path. UNICEF began its work in Bhutan in 1974 in support of the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Programme. Since 1974, UNICEF Bhutan has expanded its projects and programs in Bhutan with the support of the Royal Government, its partners, and other NGOs to improve the lives of children, youth, and women in Bhutan. Its programs in Bhutan are focused on issues of health (HIV/AIDS prevention, maternal and newborn care, and immunization), nutrition and sanitation, education, child protection, and youth participation. Additionally, UNICEF Bhutan is focusing efforts on supporting Bhutan’s youth population, which makes up 50 percent of the population and is increasingly finding itself in conflict with rapid globalization and urbanization, high youth unemployment rates, and the pervading use of mass media and traditional ways of life.

Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum and Cultural Center

Wangsel Institute for the Deaf

Wangsel Institute for the Deaf is a specialized educational institution located in Bhutan, dedicated to providing quality education and support for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Established with the goal of promoting inclusion and accessibility, the institute offers a range of programs that focus on language development, communication skills, and vocational training. Through innovative teaching methods and community engagement, Wangsel Institute strives to empower students to achieve their full potential and integrate successfully into society. The institution also works to raise awareness about the rights and capabilities of individuals with hearing impairments.

Water Bhutan

Water Bhutan is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to clean and safe water in Bhutan. Established with the mission of enhancing water management and sanitation practices, Water Bhutan works collaboratively with communities, government bodies, and other organizations to implement sustainable water solutions in rural and urban areas. The organization focuses on raising awareness about water conservation, hygiene education, and the importance of preserving Bhutan’s rich water resources. Through innovative projects and community engagement, Water Bhutan aims to ensure that all Bhutanese people have the right to clean water and improve their quality of life.

World Wildlife Fund - Bhutan

The World Wildlife Fund Bhutan (WWF Bhutan) began its conservation work in Bhutan in 1977 providing training opportunities for Bhutanese nationals. WWF Bhutan works to create a sustainable environmental future in Bhutan and to conserve Bhutan’s rich biodiversity. Today, WWF Bhutan focuses its programming on establishing and managing a system of protected areas, while developing the nation’s capacity to manage its natural resources by strengthening relevant institutions, developing human resources, and promoting conservation education and public awareness. WWF Bhutan and the Bhutan Foundation have worked extensively together on environmental conservation projects over the years, including more recent projects, such as the Kora Tigers preservation project and Bhutan For Life initiative.

Zhemgang Dzongkhag Administration

Division for the Conservation of Architectural Heritage Sites, Ministry of Home & Cultural Affairs

The Ministry of Works and Human Settlement

The Ministry of Works and Human Settlement was established in 2003 with the two main technical Departments, the Department of Roads and the Department of Urban Development and Engineering Services. Today, the ministry has three departments – Departments of Roads, Department of Engineering Services and Department of Human Settlement.

Ministry of Works & Human Settlement carries out the following functions:

• Formulate policies and develop plans related to physical infrastructures in the country;
• Develop and implement Acts/regulations/standards related to physical infrastructure;
• Engage in and coordinate the capacity building of technical human resources in the country;
• Set policies to promote appropriate construction industry;
• Promote research and development that would serve to maintain a synergy between technology, environment and traditional values; and
• Develop plans and policies for proper human settlement through growth centers

The Ministry is working with the Bhutan Foundation and other relevant stakeholders on urban planning and development project.

Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators

ABTO (Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators) is the mutual and official voice of all Bhutanese tour operators who constitute our primary members. We represent and protect the collective interests of the country’s tourism industry. Since its founding in 2000, our priority has been to bring about positive change for the effective function, administration and operation of tour operators.
As a service providing organization we render every support and assistance in undertaking activities and seeking ways and means to advance the cause of member tour operators. With significant growth in the number of tour operators and a drastic increase in tourism activities, our aim is to promote Bhutan as a top tourist destination with the collective effort of our tour operators.
We also develop and implement a wide range of measures and instruments that help make the Bhutanese market more attractive and improve the environment for both consumers and agents in line with the government’s vision of high value-low volume tourism policy.
Headed by the Executive Director, the organization works within the framework of the rules specified in the association’s articles and is guided by a Board. ABTO is a not-for-profit organization.

BHUTAN ANIMAL RESCUE AND CARE

Bhutan Animal Rescue and Care (BARC) promotes the health and welfare of all animals in Bhutan by proactively rescuing animals in need and promoting animal happiness in support of community happiness.

BARC provides rescue service, picks up animals in need, and organizes transport through supporters. While striving to re-integrate or relocate recovered animals, those animals which are handicapped or suffering from chronic diseases are kept at their shelter. To support a small and healthy stray animal population, BARC conducts weekly sterilization campaigns with DHPPI-L vaccinations. Their program is built upon a network of caring citizens who bring stray dogs from their neighborhood which makes follow-up care and release of sterilized dogs back into the community a successful initiative.

Bhutan Cancer Society

Bhutan Nuns Foundation

Bhutan Film Institute

The Bhutan Film Institute (BFI) is dedicated to nurturing and showcasing Bhutanese filmmaking talent on the international stage. It provides a platform for filmmakers worldwide to present their work, fostering cultural exchange and supporting emerging artists. In 2024, BFI hosted the Kingdom of Bhutan International Film Festival, celebrating global cinema alongside Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. The institute is led by co-founder and president Chencho Dorji, a prominent figure in Bhutanese cinema with extensive experience in acting, directing, and producing.

Bhutan Stroke Foundation

Bhutan Stroke Foundation (BSF) is a charity-based Non-Profit Civil Society Organization (NGO). It is established to provide an alternative healing approach to the patients diagnosed with stroke.

Bhutan Association of Women Entrepreneurs

Bhutan Association of Women Entrepreneurs (BAOWE) is a registered non-government organization in Bhutan. They stand for a just and equitable society in which women recognize their strengths and become successful, empowered entrepreneurs leading meaningful lives as responsible and responsive citizens of Bhutan. The BAOWE reaches out and empowers women and girls, particularly single mothers, unemployed youth, and women working in the informal sector, through entrepreneurship programs.

BAOWE has over 4,000 members across 13 Districts in the form of self-help groups (SHGs) and cooperatives. These women’s groups are engaged in a plethora of agricultural activities ranging from rice, cardamom, turmeric, vegetables, mustard, and aromatic plant plantation to the production of mustard oil, dairy products, and dairy/poultry feed. BAOWE helps its members with branding, packaging, labeling, and marketing of local produce.

BAOWE provides a common platform through which the needs, concerns and aspirations of women entrepreneurs are collectively and effectively advocated, voiced and addressed by facilitating meaningful dialogues with relevant stakeholders, key partners and the business community in general.

Green Bhutan Corporation Ltd.

Green Bhutan Corporation Ltd. (GBCL), established in 2016, is a state-owned enterprise focusing on environmental and green initiatives across Bhutan. GBCL executes afforestation and reforestation projects, manages recreational and botanical parks, develops nurseries, and provides consultancy services. Its mission is to enhance urban landscapes, promote ecotourism, and contribute to climate change mitigation. GBCL aims to create a sustainable and green future through various environmental projects, aligning with Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.

Royal Society for Protection and Care of Animals

The Royal Society for Protection and Care of Animals (RSPCA) Founded in 1999 under the Royal Patronage of Gyalyum Tshering Yangdoen Wangchuck as the first organization of its kind, set up fully dedicated to the welfare, protection and well-being of animals in Bhutan. The Organization’s mission is to inculcate a sense of moral responsibility for the proper care and humane treatment of animals through increasing awareness on the plight of animals in Bhutan and; manage a constant and healthy free-roaming dog population; at the same time ensure animal welfare is not compromised. RSPCA is actively engaged with the rescue of Stray animals and provide them with care, stability, medical assistance, rehabilitation and lifelong homes, while also solving the stray dog problems and reducing canine-related diseases in order to maintain a healthy, safe and manageable stray dog population and work to promote the general welfare of animals by raising awareness through public education and advocacy campaign.

Royal Textile Academy

The Royal Textile Academy (RTA) of Bhutan, founded in 2005, is dedicated to preserving and promoting Bhutanese textile traditions. It operates a weaving school, a textile museum, and a conservation center, offering training in traditional weaving and textile conservation. The Academy also organizes exhibitions to showcase Bhutan’s rich textile heritage. Under the patronage of Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, RTA serves as a hub for both education and the preservation of Bhutan’s textile culture.

Royal Thimphu College

Dhyana

At a time when rates of stress, anxiety, and depression continue to rise at an alarming rate, there is a pressing need for accessible, secular, mindfulness-based training programs that can be applied by a broad range of individuals in daily life. In this age of globalization and modern development, innumerable beings are drawn to the comforts of materialization where people risk even their lives and health while chasing material goals. However, while very obvious, many fail to notice the nature of fleeting times and the limited time that any living being has and it is most of the time too late when one finally realizes that he or she has wasted so much of the precious time.

Just as Guru Rinpoche, the second Buddha, has kept many appropriate treasures (sacred hidden scriptures) to be revealed and taught in response to the each coming times in future, there is now similar need to rethink the teaching and teaching methods that is most applicable to each generation. Therefore, in our current generation, there is a constant need to innovate and redesign the ancient teaching methods especially geared to fit in with busy schedules and agendas of today’s living environment while preserving the original core message and intent of such teaching and instructions the same.

There is no doubt that Bhutan, among many countries, in the world is most appropriate place where such teachings on mindfulness and meditation could flourish. The country is ruled by a compassionate, far-sighted and benevolent monarch His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck who keeps the happiness and wellbeing of his subjects above everything else and whose desire to pursue a sustainable model termed as “development with values” makes this country even more unique. Therefore, it is not a wonder when Bhutan is recognized as the only carbon-negative country in the world.

Bhutan is a country that is renowned for its beautiful pristine forests, vibrant cultural life and commitment to the holistic development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). The country provides an ideal setting in which to develop a mindfulness retreat center that is open to all Bhutanese and international guests alike – a place where anybody interested in learning the foundations of mindfulness and meditation can receive accessible and high quality instructions in a practical and easy to understand manner.

To date, although many Bhutanese are culturally exposed to the values and rituals of Buddhism, for most ordinary lay people, there is a lack of accessible and practical instructions in meditation. Particularly for youth, there is a gap to connect with such practices in a way that is straightforward and easy to apply amidst the challenges of everyday life. In addition, for most international visitors to Bhutan, although it is possible to experience the country as a regular tourist, it is not easy to find access to appropriate teachings on meditation or retreats that are geared towards them given the short duration of their stays in Bhutan.

Dorje Phagmo Foundation

The Dorje Phagmo Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Bhutan, dedicated to supporting the well-being and empowerment of marginalized communities, particularly women and children. The foundation focuses on initiatives that enhance education, health care, and vocational training, aiming to improve the quality of life for those in need. Through various programs and projects, the Dorje Phagmo Foundation works to raise awareness about social issues and promote equal opportunities, contributing to the overall development and sustainability of local communities.

Gyalyum Charitable Trust

Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, Queen Mother of Bhutan, is deeply committed to improving the welfare of women, youth, and children, particularly the disadvantaged. She has worked for over 20 years as a UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, addressing social issues such as HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence. Additionally, she supports Bhutan’s cultural heritage, focusing on traditional skills like textile weaving. Her Majesty’s charitable initiatives, supported through the Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck Charitable Trust, aim to ensure sustainable development and positive societal impact.

Museums of Bhutan

The Museums of Bhutan, guided by the Museum Division under the Ministry of Home Affairs, preserve and promote the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Established as part of Bhutan’s administrative reforms in 2023, the division oversees three key institutions: the National Museum of Bhutan in Paro, the Royal Heritage Museum in Trongsa, and the Textile Museum in Thimphu. These museums showcase Bhutan’s spiritual legacy, royal history, and textile craftsmanship, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Bhutan’s past. Through strategic planning, ongoing improvement efforts, and collaborative partnerships, the museums aim to enhance visitor experiences while safeguarding Bhutan’s cultural treasures for future generations.

Jangsa Animal Saving Trust

Jangsa Animal Saving Trust is a non-profit organization in Bhutan dedicated to the rescue, care, and protection of animals. Founded with a deep commitment to compassion and non-violence, the trust focuses on saving animals from slaughter, abandonment, and cruelty, while promoting animal welfare and humane treatment. Jangsa operates animal shelters across Bhutan, providing a safe haven for rescued animals, including stray dogs, cattle, and other domesticated animals. The trust also conducts awareness campaigns, encourages adoption, and promotes ethical treatment of all living beings as part of Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural values. Through its tireless efforts, Jangsa Animal Saving Trust has become a leading advocate for animal rights and welfare, helping to foster a more compassionate and caring society.

Bhutan Baseball and Softball Association

The Bhutan Baseball and Softball Association (BBSA), with the support of the Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC), was founded in 2013 by Karma Dorji and American resident Matthew DeSantis with the mission to promote a sporting culture and create awareness of physical fitness in Bhutanese youth and adults. BBSA is Bhutan’s national governing body for baseball, softball, and baseball5. It provides the opportunity for thousands of players, coaches and umpires across the Kingdom to participate in the sport at the youth and senior levels.

The BBSA supports six clubs in Bhutan – the Thimphu Red Pandas, Paro Ravens, Wangdue Cranes, Phuentsholing Crocodiles, Gelephu Tuskers, and Samtse Rhinos. The organization and its full-time staff are based in Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu, and conduct free weekly training clinics for students and are open to the general public.

In the summer of 2021, the world governing body for baseball and softball – World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) – approved the membership of Bhutan to become a WBSC member along with official induction by the Baseball Federation of Asia and Softball Asia.

While the BBSA has made great strides in introducing the sport to youth in urban and rural areas, access to fields, equipment, and coaching staff has become too limited to support the demand. To introduce leagues for boys and girls in younger age groups, establish clubs in the remaining fourteen districts, and offer camps and league play in those districts, please consider donating today to help raise funds to provide the opportunity for all interested youth and adults to participate in the sport.

Current sponsors include the Bhutan Cultural Exchange, MyBhutan, Royal Securities Exchange of Bhutan, Pitch in for Baseball and more.

Ogyen Choling Foundation

The Ogyen Choling Foundation in Tang, Bumthang, is dedicated to preserving Bhutan’s cultural and historical heritage. It maintains the Ogyen Choling complex, supports traditional religious rituals, runs a museum, and creates economic opportunities for the local community through employment and markets for local products. The foundation also provides grants to disadvantaged families and scholarships for children’s education. It serves both the local community and visitors interested in Bhutanese history and culture.

Royal Tutorial Project

The Royal Tutorial Project (RTP) is a professional creator and producer of educational television programs. The programs are broadcast on national television once a week. Their educational programs deal with topics including, but not restricted to, Science, Mathematics, English, and Dzongkha. Currently, they produce about 15 tutorial programs in a year. As a part of the dissemination of their programs, they also visit a number of schools every year.

The RTP is one of the project partners in STEM development in Bhutan.

Trans Bhutan Trail

The Trans Bhutan Trail project is a result of the vision of His Majesty the King to revive the ancient ancestral trail of Bhutan. These ancient trails were carved by our ancestors across the mountains to connect the nation. They played an important role in the establishment of Bhutan as a Nation and touched the lives of every Bhutanese across many generations. The Trans Bhutan Trail was the economic, political, and social bloodline of the country before the construction of motor roads began in the 1960s. It is an important cultural heritage and a national symbol of unity. A revitalized trail will provide all Bhutanese with opportunities to reconnect with their communities and encourage active learning and fitness.

The Bhutan Canada Foundation initiated the project in 2019 with support from the Tourism Council of Bhutan. The project aims to break new grounds by serving as an exemplary model for sustainable ecotourism. Prudent care is taken to offer the best experience possible whilst equally adhering to sustainability practices. Trans Bhutan Trail, through numerous trail activities and experiential educational programs, also provides for a comprehensive outdoor-classroom learning opportunities that aid youths in their passage to adulthood and as citizen of the nation. Trans Bhutan Trail works in close affinity with the community, for the community – Local communities are an important partner for the success of the trail and remains at the heart of the project. With the participation of communities in providing authentic experiences such as homestays, ambassadorship, and community campsites, the project aims at promoting the local economy and ensuring sustainable livelihood.

Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environmental Research

Bhutan Media Foundation

Rotary Club of Thimphu

The Rotary Club of Thimphu (RCT) was established in April 2012 to expand Bhutan’s foreign relations through the Rotary Club’s expansive network of 1.3 million members across the world. The Rotary Club operates in more than 220 countries and geographical areas and focuses on supporting projects in education and life skills, health and well-being, and farming and food security. A fairly young club with 28 Bhutanese members, RCT believes in the alleviation of poverty by empowering the people of Bhutan and improving services in their focus areas.

RCT has completed over sixty projects in Bhutan since its establishment, from supplying water filtration systems to supporting schools all over Bhutan to providing eyeglasses to those with visual impairment. The Rotary Club of Thimphu partners with various clubs all over the world and is a partner of the Bhutan Foundation.