Trail work steams ahead after lockdown

Lockdown and Expansion

Bhutan underwent a second 42-day national lockdown from December 2020 to January 2021. Despite this setback, the Trans Bhutan Trail team continued our work from home and through virtual meetings. In January, we expanded our marketing team to include five new members who will now lead domestic marketing, promotion, and communication activities. We welcome Rabsel, Dolkar, Singay, Dechen, and Dorjee to the TBT family!

Trail Work

With the end of the lockdown in February, the TBT team immediately resumed trail work, from renovation and refurbishment to blazing and signage. The first phase of the trail work has now been completed. The next phase for trail infrastructure will focus on building additional amenities along the route, and a key priority will be to ensure that local businesses and products are promoted through the trail.

*Locals along the trail and a refurbished bridge.*

Building Partnerships

Partnership meetings have been held with major institutions, including the De-Suung volunteer institution, Bhutan Telecom, Bhutan Power Corporation, Bhutan Development Bank, and Bhutan Scouts Association. Our team continue to meet with local village leaders and communities, and we have also added additional TBT Ambassadors in Punakha and Thimphu. Our trail Ambassadors will be waiting to meet with you and share their stories!

*Partnership meetings with diverse stakeholders.*

Looking Forward

Over the next few months, TBT will be launching a range of exciting products. Our Passport and Membership program is being finalized and will allow members to fully engage in all the offerings of the trail. TBT merchandize is in the works, and we look forward to showcasing our various offerings soon. We are also planning to launch our official website and mobile app – with exciting features that will enhance the experience of walking the trail!

Would you like to walk the Trans Bhutan Trail? Do you have a family story, historical account or images of the ancient trail? Please share them with the TBT Trail Community of Facebook and Instagram tagging #TransBhutanTrail, or contact us at catherine@bhutancanada.org.