A two-day Thai food festival is being held at theRoyal Institute for Tourism and Hospitality (RITH), Thimphu from June 14 to 15 June following a week-long culinary training program for students and industry professionals in the hospitality sector at RITH.
The festival celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Thailand while showcasing Bhutanโs local produce. Thai dishes are being prepared using locally available ingredients to explore how traditional Thai cooking techniques can blend with Bhutanese flavours offering a distinctive culinary experience that highlights the creative potential of cross-cultural collaboration.
The Hon’ble Lyonpo, Lyonpo Yezang De Thapa graced the event. The Dean of Bangkok University along with three chefs and four culinary students from the university also participated in the festival contributing to the training and live demonstrations. Their presence further enriched the learning experience and strengthened academic ties between the two institutions.
More than a culinary event, the Thai Food Festival 2025 symbolises the growing friendship and educational cooperation between Bhutan and Thailand. It demonstrates how food can serve as a bridge for cultural understanding and mutual respect.
Organised in collaboration with Bangkok University, the event marks a significant step forward in academic and cultural exchange reinforcing the vital role of education and tourism in fostering enduring international partnerships.
As part of the occasion, the RITH Cafรฉ was also inaugurated by Her Excellency Lyonpo Yezang. Operated by hospitality students, the cafรฉ will serve as a hands-on learning platform to promote entrepreneurial and business development skills. The cafรฉ will remain open to the general public going forward, offering students continued opportunities to apply their skills in a real-world setting while enhancing community engagement.
