The long-awaited revival of Dara Tsho in Tsirang’s Patshaling Gewog is finally underway. Residents have long requested authorities to restore the lake, hoping it will attract tourists and boost local livelihoods. They say the area’s moderate summer climate could draw more visitors and create economic opportunities for nearby businesses.
Dara Tsho lies just below Darachhu along the Tsirang–Sarpang Highway, at a scenic stop where locals and travellers heading towards Gelephu Mindfulness City often pause to take photographs and enjoy the view. About the size of an archery range, the lake has the potential to become an ideal place for relaxation and a key attraction for visitors.
However, debris and overgrown bushes buried the lake, obscuring both the water and the surrounding scenery. The water level also declined significantly, leaving much of the lakebed dry.
Seeing its potential to boost local businesses, residents proposed reviving the site.
The Tsirang Forest Division, with the funding support from Bhutan for Life, carried out the lake revival, clearing bushes and debris and building a retention wall to prevent water loss and help recharge the lake.
Residents say the lake began to dry up after the construction of the Tsirang–Sarpang Highway started about four decades ago.
Gelay Sherpa, a resident of Patshaling Gewog said, “The lake used to be very big in the past. It was even frightening to go near it during those days.”
The Chief Forestry Officer said a separate water supply line to refill the lake will be drawn soon as the required budget has already been approved.
Currently, excess water from a private residence is being temporarily diverted into the lake.
Another resident Pema Choki said, “We are happy with the lake revival work. More people have started visiting the chorten and the lake. This benefits residents and we feel happy when more people come here.”
Gelay Sherpa said, “With the ongoing lake revival work, the water level has already increased compared to the past. We are hopeful that the lake’s volume will continue to increase. We have been continuously praying.”
Residents remain hopeful that Dara Tsho will be fully restored.
Many believe a tshomen, or a mermaid spirit, still resides there, and people continue to offer prayers and smoke offerings, seeking blessings for the lake’s rejuvenation.
Pema Tshewang,Tsirang
