Important Notification for Bhutanese Visiting Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park:

The Royal Bhutanese Embassy has received an official notification from the Board of Management of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park (UKTNP) highlighting the need to raise awareness among Bhutanese visitors about the significance of sacred sites such as Uluṟu, and the importance of respecting and honouring such places in a way that is culturally appropriate to the region.

The notification follows an incident in August 2024 concerning two Bhutanese who were caught defacing the sacred rock art at Kulpi Muṯitjulu in Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park by writing a Sanskrit message over ancient Indigenous artwork. This deeply sacred site holds great cultural and spiritual significance for the Aṉangu and is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The two individuals were fined, removed from the park, and barred from returning as their actions caused deep offense to Aṉangu, Nguraṟitja and the community, while also straining Park resources in the clean-up process. The site also remains closed while efforts continue to repair the damage, affecting both local communities and visitors.

Given the gravity of the incident, the Embassy has conveyed its sincere apologies to the local custodians and community on behalf of our Bhutanese community members, and assured them that we will work collectively with our community to create awareness on the serious concerns expressed by them.

Although a majority of our community members would be aware, we would like to take this opportunity to highlight the deep cultural and spiritual significance of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park to its local community:

1. The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa area has been home to the Aṉangu people for over 30,000 years. It is a living cultural landscape, imbued with profound spiritual meaning and sacred traditions that continue to be honored today.

2. The rock art at Uluṟu represents an invaluable cultural heritage, passed down through generations. Also believed to be over 30,000 years old, these artworks serve as both historical and scientific records of human habitation in the area.

3. UKTNP is recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List for both its natural and cultural values, underscoring its global significance.

In light of Uluṟu’s sacred importance to its custodians, the Embassy respectfully urges all Bhutanese visitors to the Park to adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Respect all rules and regulations in place at UKTNP. Visitors can find detailed information at https://uluru.gov.au/

2. Do not touch, inscribe, or draw on the rock art. Such actions not only desecrate a sacred site, but may also result in fines and restricted access to the Park.

3. Be mindful and respectful of the cultural sensitivities associated with the site.

We request all Bhutanese planning to visit the Park and the religious associations organising such visits in the future to refrain from engaging in activities that can cause offense and distress to the local community and the Park management. While we understand the sincere sentiments of respect that Bhutanese have for these sacred sites, it is important to honour these places in a way that is culturally appropriate to the region.

The Embassy is confident that by respecting and honouring the cultural sensitivities of the local community of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, every Bhutanese visitor will have a meaningful and enriching experience at the Park.

Additionally, we request Bhutanese visitors to cultural and sacred sites including protected areas, anywhere in Australia, to be mindful and respectful of local sensitivities and abide by the regulations of such sites.

We are confident that every Bhutanese in Australia will make every effort to be law-abiding, trustworthy, environmentally conscious, and respectful, the qualities that are the hallmark of our national identity.