DAWA ZANGMO | Thimphu
The Tarayana Foundation inaugurated its 20th Annual Fair at Changyul Park on May 29, 2026, bringing together communities, artisans, farmers, students, development partners, and supporters from across the country to celebrate two decades of community empowerment and rural development.
The event was graced by Her Majesty Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the Founding President of the Tarayana Foundation, and His Eminence Vairochana Rinpoche Ngawang Jigme Jigten Wangchuck as chief guests.
Also in attendance were Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, government officials, dignitaries, volunteers, and community representatives.
Fair held under the theme, “Strengthening Climate Resilience and Economic Prosperity Through Community Empowerment and Innovation,” the three-day fair highlights the achievements of rural communities while promoting sustainable livelihoods, cultural preservation, and community-based development initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, Her Majesty Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck reflected on the Foundation’s journey, describing how it began with a simple vision rooted in volunteerism and compassion.
“The fair marks two-decades of the foundation’s journey which started with a pure vision of volunteerism from the heart,” Her Majesty said.
Highlighting the growth of youth engagement in community service, Her Majesty said Tarayana Clubs have expanded significantly across the country.
“Today, we have over 7,000 students across the country from primary schools to colleges in Tarayana Clubs volunteering across various communities,” Her Majesty said.
Her Majesty also acknowledged the contributions of volunteers and expressed appreciation to the Desuups for their continued service to the nation and their longstanding support to the Foundation.
The fair commemorates 23 years of Tarayana Foundation’s work in some of Bhutan’s most remote communities. Over the years, the organization has implemented initiatives aimed at improving living conditions, strengthening livelihoods, and expanding opportunities for vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the event, the Tarayana Foundation’s Executive Director Sonam Pem highlighted the impact of Tarayana’s programmes in helping communities move towards self-reliance. According to her, interventions in housing, livelihood development, climate-smart agriculture, and rural enterprise promotion have improved the lives of many families in rural areas.
She said the Foundation remains committed to empowering communities while preserving Bhutan’s cultural heritage. Traditional skills such as weaving, bamboo craftsmanship, and the production of local goods are creating economic opportunities for rural residents, particularly women and young people, while helping safeguard cultural identity.
She emphasized that lasting development requires understanding the needs and aspirations of communities. She called for collective efforts to address challenges including youth unemployment, climate change, sustainable agricultural practices, and inclusive development to ensure that all communities benefit from progress.
The fair features participation from communities representing 16 districts, showcasing a diverse range of traditional crafts, textiles, organic produce, and locally made products. The displays reflect the creativity, resilience, and cultural richness of Bhutan’s rural communities while providing opportunities for producers to connect with wider markets.
Among the participants is Singye Wangda from Khengkhar, Mongar, who has been exhibiting his products at the Tarayana Fair for the past decade.
“It’s been 10 years presenting my products like choesham, bark, jandon and etc which product are from my community and participating in this Tarayana fair. It creates opportunities for rural artisans and small-scale business in Bhutan and for our livelihood,” he said.
He said that the annual event serves as an important platform for rural artisans and entrepreneurs to promote their products, generate income, and expand business networks while sharing local knowledge and traditions.
In addition to exhibitions and sales stalls, the programme includes the launch of the Foundation’s Annual Report 2025 and Stories of Rural Transformation, highlighting the experiences and achievements of communities supported through Tarayana’s initiatives.
The event also saw the inauguration of Brand Naro, alongside cultural performances presented by students and community groups. Individuals and partner organizations that have made significant contributions to community development across the country were also recognized during the programme.
For nearly two decades of annual fairs and over two decades of development work, the Foundation has worked alongside communities in remote villages and highland regions, guided by the principles of compassion, dignity, service, and community empowerment.
The fair continues to serve as a platform for celebrating Bhutanese culture, encouraging volunteerism, supporting rural livelihoods, and fostering collaboration among communities, development partners, and stakeholders.
The annual gathering highlights the resilience, creativity, and self-reliance of Bhutanese communities while showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural environment.
The 20th Tarayana Fair continue at Changyul Park till May 31.
