Lhuentse Dzongkhag, a district steeped in spiritual heritage, is witnessing a remarkable transformation as its sacred pilgrimage sites and historical lhakhangs attract increasing numbers of visitors. Known for sites like Singye Dzong, Rinchen Bumpa, Phuningla, Ney Khenpajong, and Sangwai Dadru, the district is becoming a focal point for pilgrims and tourists, bringing much-needed economic benefits to local communities.
A Journey Through Spiritual and Historical Landmarks
Lhuentse’s rich spiritual landscape includes some of Bhutan’s oldest lhakhangs, such as Menkhar, Karphu, Lukchu, Kuenzangling, and Dungkar Nagtshang. These temples, built by revered Buddhist masters like Guru Chowang, Ratna Lingpa, and Pema Lingpa, hold immense religious and historical significance. However, until the Covid-19 pandemic, the dzongkhag remained relatively untouched by mainstream tourism.
The pandemic served as a turning point, with travel restrictions prompting locals to explore Bhutan’s spiritual landmarks, including those in Lhuentse. This shift revitalized the local economy, with the dzongkhag seeing a surge in visitors to sites like Singye Dzong, considered one of the most sacred places linked to Guru Rinpoche.
Singye Dzong: A Gateway to Economic Growth
Located north of Lhuentse, Singye Dzong has become a major draw for pilgrims. Improved mule tracks from Khoma to the site have significantly enhanced accessibility, benefiting villages along the route. According to Khoma gewog records, visitor numbers have skyrocketed since the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, with over 1,000 pilgrims making the journey in 2023 alone.
The impact on local communities such as Tsangpo and Roelmataeng has been profound. These remote villages now thrive on income generated from porter and guide services. The 12-household community of Tsangpo and the four-household Roelmataeng highland community have seen incomes soar. Residents like Nima Tshering from Roelmataeng reported earnings of Nu 140,000 this year, up from Nu 30,000 last year, due to high visitor turnout during major festivals like the Drubchhen at Singye Dzong.
Organizing for Prosperity: Singye Dzong Horse Association
The Singye Dzong Horse Association, formed in 2022, has been pivotal in ensuring equitable income distribution among residents. The association rotates work among its members, each of whom owns eight to 16 horses. With pony services costing between Nu 3,500 and Nu 4,500 per trip, the association has created a sustainable income model for the community.
Reviving Homestays and Traditional Crafts
Homestays in Khoma village have also seen a revival, hosting over 100 international tourists since the start of the year. Chimi Yueduen, a homestay owner, reported full bookings during the Drubchhen festival season.
Kishuthara, the intricate handwoven textile for which Khoma is renowned, has also regained popularity. Weavers now earn between Nu 50,000 and Nu 150,000 during the pilgrimage season, according to Berpa-Khoma Tshogpa Sonam Dargay.
Infrastructure Improvements Drive Growth
Investments by the dzongkhag administration have further fueled this economic resurgence. The construction of toilets and canopies along pilgrimage routes and the improvement of mule tracks have made the once-arduous three-day journey to Singye Dzong more accessible. These efforts have also helped lesser-known sites like Rinchen Bumpa gain recognition, further diversifying the district’s attractions.
A Promising Future for Lhuentse
For communities like Khoma, where maize cultivation and Kishuthara weaving were once the only sources of income, pilgrimage tourism has opened up new economic opportunities. As Khoma Gup Tshering Wangdi noted, “Local pilgrimage has enhanced the livelihoods of the people here.”
With its blend of spiritual significance, historical richness, and improved infrastructure, Lhuentse Dzongkhag is emerging as a key destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, offering hope and prosperity to its communities.
