With the Tshachu season at its peak, Gelephu Tshachu continues to draw people from far and wide. The tshachu normally sees the biggest crowds during the winter season with numbers sometimes exceeding one thousand. However, this season has seen a drop, with only about 500 visitors. According to the residents, the decline is likely due to the reopening of Gasa Tshachu and other hot springs.
The Tshachu saw a significant increase in visitors over the past few years following the closure of the Gasa Tsachu due to a flash flood in 2021.
Many people said that the reduced crowds have made the experience more relaxing.
“The area is quieter with fewer visitors, making it easier for both sick individuals and regular visitors to enjoy the tshachu without any hassle,” said Tshering Wangchuk, a caretaker of Gelephu Hot Spring.
Meanwhile, the visitors at the Gelephu Tsachuare urging authorities to widen the narrow road. The 3.5-kilometre stretch from the Gelephu-Trongsa highway to the tshachu poses challenges for travellers.
“The road needs to be widened since it is quite narrow. It’s challenging for just one vehicle to pass through, and it also needs to be blacktopped,” said Chandra Kumar Gurung, a visitor.
“When two vehicles meet on the road, there isn’t enough space to pass. Widening the road would be helpful. Many people come here with injuries like fractured legs, knee pain, backaches, and other pains to soak in the Tsachu for treatment,” said Tshering, another visitor.
“The road currently is small and narrow. Vehicles travelling in opposite directions often have a difficult time passing each other. Widening would be beneficial,” said Kinley, also a visitor.
“This road is used by many commuters, but its surface is in poor condition. Although it seems to have been resurfaced, it’s already worn out, which could damage vehicles and increase the risk of slipping,” said Wangchuk, a visitor.
The tshachu has seven ponds with separate timings allocated alternately for men and women.
Gelephu Tsachu is believed to cure illnesses, including body aches, joint pains and skin diseases among others. All it takes is soaking in the water for an extended amount of time. While sick people go to Tsachu for health purposes, others go for recreational purposes.
The hot spring is located 15 kilometres from the Gelephu town.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sonam Pem
