The narrow footpath, leading to Duenmang Tshachu in Zhemgang, is treacherous, especially at this time of year, with many elderly visiting the hot spring for a dip. The path, carved over a steep cliff, is fairly new. Recent monsoon had washed away the path and a new one was made using explosives.
Those wishing to take a dip in the hot spring have to follow the narrow trail, about an hour, from the road head at Gongphu under Nangkor Gewog. Duenmang Tshachu is one of the popular hot springs in the country.
“I was scared and shivering while crossing the footpath,” said Sonam Wangmo, who has come from Trashigang, to soak in the hot spring.
Another visitor, Leki Choden from Monggar said there are chances of people, especially old, into Mangdechhu if the footpath is not fixed.
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Sherub Zangmo, another visitor, said there is no chance of survival if one falls down the cliff. “I request the concerned authority to widen the footpath.”
The Tshachu’s caretaker, Namgay said they are not allowing horses to ply through the footpath given its narrowness. “The footpath is still narrow and scary. We need more explosives, if we are to widen it,” he said.
The number of visitors to the hot spring increases from November till March. A dip in the hot spring is believed to cure joint pain, sinusitis, and headache, among others.
