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Khothakpa Gypsum Mine
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The Khothakpa Gypsum Mine is the largest and most significant open-cast mining operation in Bhutan, located in the Pemagatshel District of the southeastern region. Operated by the State Mining Corporation Limited (SMCL), it has been a cornerstone of Bhutan's industrial sector since its inception in the late 1980s. The gypsum extracted from this site is primarily exported to India and Nepal, where it is used extensively in the cement and fertilizer industries. Geographically, the mine is situated in a rugged mountainous area, requiring complex logistical arrangements for the transport of minerals to the border. The operation provides substantial employment opportunities for the local population and contributes significantly to the national revenue through export earnings. Environmental management practices are implemented to mitigate the impact of mining on the surrounding ecosystem and local communities. The mine's existence has spurred the development of infrastructure, including roads and housing, in the previously remote Pemagatshel region.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: Pemagatshel New Dzong · Zimzor Lhakhang · Dungmin Community Lhakhang
- Nearby: Nganglam (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 20 | 16 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 6 | 18 | 48 | 212 | 267 | 341 | 362 | 269 | 214 | 115 | 11 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Khothakpa Gypsum Mine is Bhutan's most important gypsum extraction site, operated by the State Mining Corporation, providing essential materials for the domestic construction industry.
Visiting
For safety reasons and due to ongoing mining operations, the interior of the mine is generally strictly off-limits to unauthorized visitors, meaning viewing is restricted to the exterior areas.
Where to view it
The impressive scale of the open-pit mine and the transporting trucks can often be observed from the higher public roads situated in the surrounding valleys.
Local products
In the surrounding villages, tourists can occasionally find small craft workshops benefiting from the mine, but primarily agricultural products from the fertile Bhutanese highlands.
Active season
The most active phases of mining and transport typically occur outside the heavy monsoon months, preferably during the drier seasons in spring and autumn.
Nearby
This area can be ideally combined with hikes through the remote natural landscapes, visits to traditional monasteries, and exploring the authentic Bhutanese mountain villages.
Geography
Facts
- The mine is operated by the government-owned State Mining Corporation Limited (SMCL).
- It is located in the Pemagatshel District in southeastern Bhutan.
- A majority of the extracted gypsum is exported to the neighboring Indian state of Assam.
- Gypsum is a critical raw material for the domestic Penden Cement Authority.
- The mine has been in continuous commercial operation for over 30 years.
- The gypsum deposits at Khothakpa are noted for their high purity and quality.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Khothakpa Gypsum Mine (6)
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Frequently asked questions
What is Khothakpa mine?
The largest open-cast gypsum mine in Bhutan, located in Pemagatshel.
Can you visit the mine?
Entry is usually restricted for safety reasons.
What is the gypsum used for?
Mainly for cement manufacturing and export to India.
How do you reach the location?
Via steep mountain roads from Pemagatshel district center.
Are there accommodations there?
Only simple guesthouses; better hotels are in Samdrup Jongkhar.
Khothakpa Gypsum Mine: where is it located?
Khothakpa Gypsum Mine is located in Bhutan.
Khothakpa Gypsum Mine: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pemagatshel New Dzong, Zimzor Lhakhang, Dungmin Community Lhakhang.
Khothakpa Gypsum Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Oct, Nov.
Khothakpa Gypsum Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Khothakpa Gypsum Mine is the largest and most significant open-cast mining operation in Bhutan, located in the Pemagatshel District of the southeastern region.
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