Wengkhar Nagtshang, also called Wengkhar Lhakhang in Monggar, a spiritually and culturally significant monument in the east has been undergoing a major renovation since last year. As of today, over 80 per cent of the renovation work on the three-storey structure is complete. Remaining works including the installation of the altar, painting debris, and site developments are expected to complete within this year.
The lhakhang is located in Wengkhar village, approximately nine kilometers from Monggar town towards Trashigang.
It serves as the main temple of worship for the people of Wengkhar chiwog in Monggar Gewog.
It is believed to be built by Umze Damchoe and Kudung Pelkar Choephel in around 1646 upon the command of Chogyal Minjur Tempa.
The Lhakhang, considered to be the residence of the third mind reincarnation of Zhabdrung, Zhabdrung Jigme Drakpa, had undergone several minor renovations in the past, following damage from earthquakes and the toll of its age.
Today, relics are properly sealed at one of the temporary shelters. The structure is being renovated maintaining the architectural aesthetics intact, reusing stonewalls and timbers of the old structure.
The top floor will remain as it is, housing the main altar with religious and sacred items.
Meanwhile, the second floor, which was used as hostel for monks, will be converted into a dukhang, or multipurpose space for religious activities in the village.
Furthermore, the ground floor, previously used to shelter domestic animals, will be developed into a cultural heritage gallery.
“The ground floor was left idle. So now we have converted it to a cultural heritage gallery or an exhibition hall. It will exhibit and demonstrate the antiques and the history of Nagtshang. We are currently seeking approval from relevant offices,” said Lobzang Tshering, Project Manager for Wengkhar Nagtshang Renovation Project.
This new development aims to attract more visitors to this spiritual site for the benefit of the locals.
“We received several foreigners visiting Nagtshang in the past as well. In our village, we grow varieties of fruits and with such an opportunity and platform, we are hopeful that we will be able to trade our produce to visitors,” said Tshering Dorji, a resident of Wengkhar.
The project was funded through the block grant and incurred over Nu 10 M.
Once the renovation completes, Nagtshang will stand among other historical monuments in Monggar such as the Monggar Dzong, Drametse Lhakhang, and Zhongar Dzong, attracting visitors from both within and outside the country.
Namgay Wangchuk, Monggar
Edited by Phub Gyem
