The Bhutanese Leading the way.
His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, along with Their Royal Highnesses Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, Gyalsey Ugyen Wangchuck, and Gyalsem Sonam Yangden Wangchuck, graced the opening of the second edition of the Rhododendron Festival at Sheytemi, Merak, on 3 April 2026. His Royal Highness Gyaltshab Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, Ashi Yeatso Lhamo, officials, guests, and over 8,000 attendees were present for the occasion.
The week-long festival, held from 3 to 9 April at Sheytemi at around 2,900 metres above sea level, celebrates the flowering season when rhododendrons come into bloom across the highlands. Bhutan has approximately 46 species of rhododendron, of which 41 are found in the Merak and Sakteng area. Seven species are found around Sheytemi itself.
The festival is organised by Trashigang Dzongkhag and the Department of Tourism.
Following the ceremonial opening, festivities included traditional dance and singing, highland games, and cultural storytelling around bonfires. Local products unique to the area, among them rhododendron wine, were also on display and available from local vendors.
Merak and the neighbouring Sakteng Gewog are renowned for their distinct highland culture and remarkable biodiversity. The area falls within the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Bhutan’s most remote protected areas, which is also known in local tradition as the habitat of the Migoi, a cryptid deeply embedded in the beliefs of the highland communities.
