Zhemgang

In the southern hills of Bhutan lies Zhemgang, a realm of dense forests, ancient traditions, and sacred waters, where nature and spirituality seamlessly intertwine.

Zhemgang is administratively divided into eight gewogs, including Trong, Nangkor, and Shingkhar, and is historically recognized as Khengrig Namsum, or the “Three Khengs,” which represent its upper, middle, and lower zones. 

The district is widely recognized for its rugged terrain and expansive forests, making it one of Bhutan’s least developed yet most ecologically intact areas. These untouched landscapes shelter an impressive range of wildlife, including 22 species listed as endangered, among them the celebrated Golden Langur.

The people of Zhemgang, known as Khengpas, are deeply rooted in their cultural arts. Their heritage shines through traditional songs, dances, and handicrafts, especially bamboo weaving, pottery, and handcrafted household items that remain important to daily life and local livelihoods.

❇ Destinations
Buli Tsho (Buli Lake) — Zhemgang’s Sacred Water

Buli Tsho is more than a mirror of the sky — it is the living seat of a guardian spirit, a place of promise and pilgrimage that draws seekers into Zhemgang’s deep forests.

If you’re in Buli, one must visit the sacred Buli Tsho (lake) which is deemed as the abode of the village’s protective deity Buli Muenmo or Tshomen (mermaid). 

As per many bloggers who have visited Buli Tsho, like Yeegetaway shared that, the people of Buli honor Buli Muenmo as their guardian deity. Twice every year, the community performs an important ritual known as Buli Chhodpa, an offering ceremony meant to appease the deity and express gratitude for blessings such as good harvests, health, and overall prosperity.

During the two-month harvest season, the lake becomes strictly off-limits to visitors. The villagers believe that even the smallest disturbance could jeopardize the year’s crops. Individuals who have recently experienced a death in the family, handled a corpse, are physically unwell, or women who are menstruating are traditionally not permitted to visit the lake.

Lopon Thokchung, one of the local guide from Buli, shared that the lake sometimes emits deep, thudding sounds whenever it senses unrest or violation of taboos—described as “Doonghi Dug Dug ke chabchab zumbey,” meaning it echoes like the beating of a heart.

 

Legend of the Buli Muenmo Tshomen (Mermaid Spirit)

Long ago, three brothers from Tibet ventured into the region while chasing a wild boar. When they reached the mountain overlooking the wide plateau—where Buli stands today—they spotted the boar roaming in an open field. The brothers struck a pact: whoever brought down the animal would claim the land and rule it.

Against all expectations, it was the youngest brother whose arrow struck the boar. He settled there and became the ruler of Baeyul, the “hidden paradise,” now known as Buli. His name was Buli Penpa.

But how does this connect to the Tshomen? According to village elders, the Tshomen was the youngest sister of the three brothers, who later came in search of her siblings in a mystical, supernatural form. One night, she is said to have arrived at a house in the village seeking shelter. The woman of the house later heard unusual sounds coming from the guest room, and when she went inside, she saw a being with the upper body of a woman and the lower half resembling a serpent.

Startled, she ran to fetch her neighbors, but by the time they returned, the mysterious visitor had vanished—leaving behind a glittering golden milk churn as a gift for her host.

No one knows exactly when this event took place, but the people of Buli hold this story close, believing it to be an inseparable part of their ancient heritage and spiritual identity.

Pilgrims come to perform offerings, ask for blessings (health, prosperity, protection), and participate in local rites. Nature lovers and photographers value the setting for its quiet beauty, wildlife signs (ducks and forest birds are commonly seen), and the atmosphere of remote calm. The lake’s legend — especially the mermaid guardian story — also draws curious travelers and cultural tourists.

❇ Destinations
Duenmang Tsachu (Holy Hot Springs)

Step into a forested sanctuary where warm waters bubble with legend and healing—the mystical Duenmang Tsachu of Zhemgang promises both spiritual renewal and natural rejuvenation.


Duenmang Tsachu lies in Nangkor Gewog, along the Mangde River, and is also called the Kheng Tsachu, highlighting its spiritual centrality in the Kheng region.

Legend & Healing Powers
Local believes that the springs were blessed by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), endowing the waters with extraordinary healing properties. Pilgrims soak in the pools seeking relief from joint pain, headaches, and sinus ailments. Each natural pool is believed to possess distinct therapeutic powers.

Modern Development & Tourism
Recognizing its potential, authorities are upgrading the site with new pools, separate facilities for men and women, a 28-room guesthouse, and safer walkways—a project worth Nu 52.6 million. These improvements aim to make the tsachu welcoming for both spiritual seekers and wellness travelers.

Visitor Experience & Access
Earlier, the path was treacherous, with loose stones along cliff edges. Reinforced walkways now improve safety, though parking remains limited during peak seasons. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions while enjoying the serene, natural setting.

Why People Visit? 

Spiritual Pilgrimage: To receive blessings and purification linked to Guru Rinpoche.

Wellness & Healing: Natural mineral-rich baths for therapy.

Nature Retreat: Peaceful forested surroundings for meditation and relaxation.