Nabji Trail

Overview

The Nabji Trail is a community-based ecotourism^[1] trek in south-central Bhutan, traversing the buffer zone of Royal Manas National Park. Named after Nabji village, where an ancient stone pillar commemorates an 8th-century peace treaty, the trail passes through some of Bhutan's most biodiverse subtropical and tropical forests.

Route

The trek typically takes 5-6 days, descending from temperate forests into warm subtropical lowlands. Trekkers pass through remote villages inhabited by the Monpa and Kheng communities, experiencing lifestyles largely unchanged for centuries. The trail crosses bamboo forests, riverine habitats, and areas where golden langurs and other wildlife can be spotted.

Community Tourism

The Nabji Trail was developed as a community-based ecotourism project, with local villagers trained as guides, homestay operators, and cooks. Revenue from the trek directly benefits these remote communities, providing an alternative livelihood to subsistence farming.

References

1. "Nabji-Korphu Community-Based Nature Tourism." RAOnline Bhutan.
2. "Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park." Referenced in Nabji trail documentation.
3. "Bhutan's national parks and wildlife sanctuaries." Daily Bhutan.
4. "10 Days Royal Manas Trek." Druk Asia.