#Project update
SETIN is progressing with the Ecotourism Assessment being developed for two of Bhutan’s most valuable protected areas: the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS) and the Royal Manas National Park (RMNP).
Following the field mission carried out in January by Giacomo Cozzolino (SETIN) and Gustavo Basotti (from THR, the Lead Agency for the Project), the SETIN team prepared the first draft of the assessment, submitted on 8 April 2026. The document is structured around three main components: a diagnosis of the current context, an assessment of ecotourism potential and challenges, and practical guidelines to support future sustainable tourism development.
The work aims to identify opportunities for ecotourism that can contribute to local development while safeguarding the biodiversity, wildlife and natural resources that make these areas particularly significant. It also seeks to support tourism approaches that are compatible with the conservation objectives of the protected areas and responsive to the needs of local communities and institutions.
The first round of comments received from UNDP and Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) representatives is currently being reviewed by the SETIN team, composed of Giacomo Cozzolino and Matteo Serlupi Crescenzi. This final phase will help strengthen the assessment and ensure that the proposed recommendations are practical, relevant and aligned with the priorities of the project partners.
The final submission is planned for the end of July 2026.
