Chukha

Chukha: The Industrial Heart of Bhutan

Chukha, a vibrant district in southwestern Bhutan, is a unique blend of natural beauty and economic vitality. It is known as the industrial powerhouse of Bhutan, housing the country’s first and largest hydropower project, the Chukha Hydropower Plant. This pioneering project plays a significant role in Bhutan’s economy, with energy exports contributing to national revenue and growth. The district’s success in sustainable energy initiatives represents Bhutan’s forward-looking approach to environmental conservation and economic development.

Getting to Chukha
Chukha is easily accessible by road from Thimphu, located about 100 kilometers away—a scenic drive of approximately three hours. Its proximity to the Indian border also makes Chukha an important commercial gateway, facilitating cross-border trade and movement.

Weather
Chukha’s climate is subtropical, with mild winters and warm, humid summers. Temperatures vary between 5°C in the winter months and up to 28°C during the summer.

Popular Attractions in Chukha
Chukha Hydropower Plant
This is Bhutan’s first hydropower project, established in the 1980s, and remains a key energy provider for both Bhutan and India. Though not open to the public, visitors can learn about its impact on Bhutan’s economy and sustainable energy practices through local information centers.

Tala Hydropower Plant
The Tala Hydropower Plant is another significant project in Chukha and one of the largest in the region. This power plant contributes massively to Bhutan’s hydropower exports, making it a major player in the economy.

Phuentsholing
Located in Chukha, Phuentsholing is Bhutan’s bustling border town with India, offering visitors a lively market, an impressive gateway arch, and a blend of Bhutanese and Indian cultures. It’s also home to the Bhutan Gate, a beautifully crafted entrance that marks the border.

Kharbandi Goenpa
This serene monastery, perched on a hill overlooking Phuentsholing, provides sweeping views of the plains of India and the surrounding valleys. Founded in 1967, it’s a peaceful spot for meditation and an excellent place to explore Bhutanese architecture and art.

Torsa Strict Nature Reserve
For nature lovers, Torsa Strict Nature Reserve is a hidden gem near Chukha, home to diverse flora and fauna. This pristine reserve is the only protected area in Bhutan that hasn’t been inhabited, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.

Chukha offers a unique experience for visitors, blending Bhutan’s natural landscapes, industrial achievements, and cultural richness. Whether you’re interested in the thriving hydropower industry, exploring peaceful monasteries, or experiencing cross-border trade in Phuentsholing, Chukha provides a dynamic and enriching slice of Bhutan.