One of the most sacred sites in Dagana, Tha Namkhai Dzong, will finally get improved road access and basic amenities in the next financial year. Located in Laja gewog, the site has been attracting an increasing number of devotees in recent years. For a long time, residents and pilgrims have been requesting road improvement and infrastructure development at the site.
Overlooking Thasa chiwog in Laja gewog, Tha Namkhai Dzong is renowned for a sacred religious bell hanging from a massive cliff. The sound of the bell resonates when the wind strikes its clapper. Visitors can observe the bell through binoculars placed at the site.
Above the bell is a sacred urn or Thro.
Although the exact century or year of its construction remains unknown, it is believed that the Guru Rinpoche blessed the sacred site in the 8th century.
The site has drawn hundreds of visitors from Dagana and nearby districts seeking blessings, good fortune, and spiritual fulfilment.
However, visiting the site remains a challenge. The road leading from Thasa chiwog is rough and difficult to navigate. Initially constructed for transporting transmission line materials, the road is unsuitable for light vehicles, forcing visitors to hire bolero pickups.
The situation is expected to improve soon. Dagana District Administration during the last Dzongkhag Tshogdu said that a budget has been allocated in the upcoming financial year to initiate necessary site developments at the site.
According to the district administration, a consultant has already been sent to the site to assess possible improvements.
Sonam Jamtsho, the planning officer of Dagana, said, “We have to carry out site development works at Tha Namkhai Dzong. This includes improvement of the existing road to ensure year-round accessibility. Through these initiatives, we hope to attract more domestic tourists and promote the site as a key destination in the locality.”
Khandu, the caretaker of Tha Namkhai Dzong, said, “Currently, the challenge is the road. People visiting from across the country are deeply impressed by its spiritual significance. Many visitors have told us that better road access would attract even more pilgrims. Many visitors are forced to return from Burichhu because light vehicles cannot navigate the existing road.”
As one of Dagana’s unique spiritual landmarks, Tha Namkhai Dzong has the potential to contribute to local economic development.
Pema Tshewang, Dagana
Edited by Tshering Zam
