Thimphu, Bhutan

2^nd Asian Ranger
Congress 2026

2–4 December

Organised by

The gathering begins

2–4 December 2026

Thimphu, Kingdom of Bhutan

Forest Cover: 69.71%
Rangers Expected: 150+

Asian rangers exchanging knowledge above a forested Himalayan valley

A congress rooted in place

Frontline experience. Shared Asian solutions.

Welcome to Bhutan

Rooted in Bhutan. Connected across Asia.

The 2^nd Asian Ranger Congress is a landmark gathering of Asia's rangers, conservationists, and organisations dedicated to protecting the natural world.

Hosted in Thimphu, Bhutan brings a living conservation philosophy to the gathering: 69.71% of the land remains forested, tiger populations are recovering, and harmony between people and nature shapes national life.

Join us to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and strengthen the ranger community across Asia.

Our shared outcomes

What We Aim to Achieve

Five commitments shaping a stronger, safer, and more connected ranger community across Asia.

A ranger speaking with a child in a Bhutanese community setting.

Objective 1 of 5

Recognition Beyond Conservation

Advance recognition of rangers' contributions to climate resilience, community wellbeing, One Health, and sustainable development across Asia.

Rangers do far more than protect wildlife. They are frontline responders to climate impacts and key partners in community health and resilience programmes.

Asian rangers gathered in discussion above a Himalayan valley.

Objective 2 of 5

Amplifying Ranger Voices

Strengthen the collective voice of Asian rangers in regional and global policy forums, building on the Guwahati Declaration.

The Congress will build a unified Asian ranger position to carry forward to the 2027 World Ranger Congress, strengthening ranger-led advocacy through the Ranger Federation of Asia.

A diverse ranger team walking together on a Himalayan forest trail.

Objective 3 of 5

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Promote a more inclusive ranger workforce, championing women rangers, Indigenous rangers, and rangers from local communities.

Building a ranger workforce where women, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities are represented as equal partners in conservation.

Rangers providing first aid and safety support at a mountain field station.

Objective 4 of 5

Ranger Recognition & Professional Standards

Enhance the professional standing of rangers across Asia, advocating for improved welfare, working conditions, and training.

The Congress will advance WRAP 2030 professional standards tailored to the Asian context, including stronger social protection and insurance coverage for rangers.

Rangers from across Asia training together in a mountain forest clearing.

Objective 5 of 5

Peer Learning & Asian Solutions

Foster peer-to-peer exchange of knowledge and best practices among rangers across Asia, celebrating Bhutan as an inspiration.

Through hands-on training in first aid, disaster response, forest fire management, and emotional resilience, the Congress builds a self-sustaining network of ranger knowledge that travels across borders and generations.

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Host City & Congress Venue

Majestic Thimphu Hosts You

Set within a high Himalayan valley, Bhutan's capital brings together living culture, forested ridgelines, and a national commitment to conservation, making it a fitting gathering place for Asia's ranger community.

Explore Venue & Accommodation