Lhamoi Latsho

Lhamoi Latsho, located a brief 10-minute walk from the Lhamoi Zhingkha highway, holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Bhutanese folklore. Originally known as Kalikhola (“lake of the Kali”) by local Hindus, its name was later translated into Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan. The lake is revered by the local community, who gather annually to offer prayers and invocations. According to tradition, if villagers experience a delay in rain after planting their crops, they turn to Lhamoi Latsho for blessings. It is believed that these prayers can swiftly bring rainfall, ensuring the prosperity of their agricultural endeavors.

However, there are strict rules associated with invoking the lake’s blessings. Participants are forbidden from using intoxicants such as wine during the rituals, and offering flesh and blood is strictly prohibited. Legend has it that failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in storms or other natural disturbances affecting the village. Additionally, fishing in Lhamoi Latsho is considered taboo, with local beliefs suggesting that those who defy this prohibition may suffer illness or even death as consequences.

Lhamoi Latsho stands as a testament to Bhutan’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and environmental stewardship, where natural elements are intertwined with cultural practices to maintain harmony and respect for the natural world. The lake not only serves as a source of spiritual solace and community cohesion but also reflects the Bhutanese reverence for nature and its delicate balance.