Bhutan Cultural Exchange

Pickelball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. It's a game that can be played by people of all ages. It is easy to learn and fun. One thing that virtually all Pickleball players agree on is that it is a great way to make friends and build community. On September 3, 2023 Pickleball in Bhutan was launched. With the support of a group of American volunteer players and coaches. Interest in the game continues to grow in Bhutan.

Help us renovate Tshimasham Sports Center in Chhukha, Bhutan in rainy rural area south of the capital city of Thimpu. We will renovate the building in phases. The first phase has already started as you will see from the video. It includes cleaning debris, replacing windows and doors and cleaning the outside walls. This has been paid for by Bhutan Cultural Exchange with matching funds from the community of Chhukha.

Phase I cost: $2,200 - already donated by Bhutan Cultural Exchange and matched by Tshimasham Sports Center.

Phase II includes smoothing the concrete and painting the floors with Pickleball lines and lighting the facility. Phase three Includes bathroom, inside painting and finish touches. The money raised in this GoFundMe will pay for Phase two.

Phase II Costs: Lighting and related infrastructure = $6,000

Concrete smoothing/Paint = 4,000

The monks of Chukkha have been taught Pickleball by US volunteers - they love the game. We promise this video will make your day.

The indoor court allows Pickleball to be played when it rains, which it often does throughout the spring and summer in Chhukha. The court also provides a place for students at the nearby school and the community to play.

Development of Pickleball courts at monasteries and nunneries is an important aspect of our Pickleball in Bhutan Program. It is based on concern for the health and well being of monks and nuns who often live sedentary lives, spending their days in prayer, ceremonies for their communities and in an education that often takes them right through college and Divinity School.

Tshimasham Sports Arena will be the first indoor Pickleball court associated with a monastery in Bhutan. The monks will have a place to play a sport they clearly enjoy in their free time and on holidays. It gives them an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a lifetime of fitness.

To learn more about Bhutan Cultural Exchange and the story behind Pickleball in Bhutan:

Download Story of Pickleball in Bhutan on website