Lakes attract people because they offer unique natural beauty and a peaceful escape from busy daily life. That’s what Samdrup Jongkhar is trying to capitalise on. Tashithang gewog’s tshoduen (seven lakes) chiwog is at the centre of this development.
Deep within the forests of Tashithang Gewog, a group of locals leads the way. The area is home to wild elephants. It is about fifteen minutes’ walk from the nearest road head.
Tshoduen chiwog, as the name suggests, has seven natural lakes. Away from settlements, it remains largely untouched and is known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. One of the lakes is estimated to cover around seven acres, an area roughly equivalent to five football fields.
Now the plan is to develop the area into a sustainable eco-tourism destination, creating new economic opportunities for rural families.
With support from the tourism department, the gewog was able to secure Nu 7 M under the Economic Stimulus Programme.
Tashithang Gup Jigme Singay Drukpa said, “Jomotshangkha Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhutan for Life and WWF supported us in reviving the seven lakes. We are now planning to develop the area as a tourism destination, with walking trails and a watchtower where visitors can observe wildlife. The District Engineer has already estimated the cost, and we are planning to award the work.”
The lakes are considered sacred.
The project also includes the construction of an eco-lodge and other tourism facilities.
Bir Bahadur Adhikari, a resident said, “We used to come here with our cattle. We do not know how these lakes were formed, but our parents always told us not to disturb them. If the area is developed for tourism, we believe it will benefit the local community.”
“We used to conduct an annual religious ceremony in the area, but as people started leaving the village, the practice stopped. We can still see the lakes, and now that some people have started resettling here, we sometimes visit the area and discuss reviving the ceremony,” added Lok Bahadur Gurung, another resident.
Its location along the border gives it added potential for tourism.
The area is expected to be ready within this financial year
With people in the region deeply rooted in religious traditions, these lakes could put Tshoduen on the tourism map of Samdrup Jongkhar.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
