𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚 𝐆𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐠 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐬

By Lhendup Wangmo

In a major development for Khoma Gewog, Lhuentse Dzongkhag, the newly completed footpath is offering much needed relief to pilgrims, locals, and tourists who visit this sacred region. For years, travelers struggled with an ancient, narrow, and rugged trail that made even the simplest journeys difficult and hazardous, especially for the elderly and those carrying offerings. The construction of this new footpath, built with the involvement of the local community, is now making the sacred sites more accessible and safer for everyone. Not only does it provide a smoother, more comfortable path for pilgrims, but it is also expected to attract more visitors and boost local tourism, all while preserving the spiritual integrity of this culturally significant area. With this new addition, the residents and visitors alike are celebrating a brighter, safer future for Khoma Gewog.

According to Pema Tshewang Mangmi of Khoma Gewog, the area previously had only an ancient trail that was narrow and inconvenient for travelers. The rocky path made it particularly difficult for pilgrims visiting sacred sites, as well as for residents commuting between villages.

“The footpath is not just for the people of Khoma but for everyone who visits our sacred places, including tourists,” said Pema Tshewang. “This development will improve accessibility and enhance the overall experience for visitors.”
With the new footpath in place, residents believe it will also support local tourism and preserve cultural heritage by providing a safer and more comfortable route to the revered sites. The initiative reflects the gewog’s commitment to improving infrastructure while maintaining the spiritual and cultural significance of the region.

Namgay Dorji, the villager coordinator for the footpath construction, reflected on the challenges of the past and the significant improvements brought by the new infrastructure. “Before this footpath was built, the old trail was incredibly difficult to walk on. It was steep, rocky, and uneven, making it hard for anyone, especially the elderly and those carrying heavy offerings, to travel. I remember seeing pilgrims struggle to climb up, stopping frequently to catch their breath. Some even had to turn back because they couldn’t make the journey. During the rainy season, the trail would become slippery, and many people would slip and injure themselves. It was disheartening to watch, but we had no choice this was the only route available.”

Namgay explained that the footpath project was a long-awaited solution to these difficulties. “When the plan to construct this footpath was approved, we were all relieved. As the coordinator, I worked closely with the community to ensure that the construction was done efficiently. It was important to us that the new path not only made travel easier but also blended well with the natural surroundings and preserved the sanctity of the sacred sites. Many villagers volunteered their time and effort, knowing how much this would benefit everyone.”

With the footpath now complete, the difference is clear and significant. “The transformation is incredible. The path is now much wider, well-structured, and safe to walk on. Pilgrims, monks, and villagers who once struggled on the old trail now find the journey much easier. Elderly visitors, who previously avoided the sacred site due to the challenging terrain, are now coming more frequently. I have personally seen people smiling as they walk on the new path, relieved that they no longer have to worry about slipping or getting exhausted halfway through their journey.”

Namgay Dorji also emphasized the broader impact beyond the local community. “This is not just for our villagers. People from all over Bhutan and even tourists who visit our sacred places will benefit from this development. Before, many travelers hesitated to come because they heard how difficult the trail was. Now, they can visit without worry. We have already seen more tourists and pilgrims using the path, which is great for our local economy and cultural preservation. The footpath is not just an improvement in infrastructure it’s a way to keep our sacred heritage alive by making it more accessible to everyone.”

Kinley Dorji, 51 years old a resident of Khoma, “I remember how difficult it was to walk on the old trail, especially during the rainy season. The stones would be slippery, and people would often slip or injure themselves. It was even more challenging for those carrying loads or traveling with young children. But now, with the new footpath, we can walk comfortably. This is a great improvement, and we are very thankful.”

Tshering Wangmo, 66 years old a devoted pilgrim who has been traveling to the area for religious purposes for many years. Recalling the challenges of the old trail, she said, “Each time, the journey was exhausting. Carrying offerings and walking on the uneven path was not easy. I have difficulty walking, and before, it would take me nearly one and a half hours to reach my destination. The steep and rocky trail made it even more challenging, especially during the monsoon season when the path would become slippery. I often had to stop and rest multiple times before continuing my journey.”

However, with the newly constructed footpath, her experience has changed dramatically. “Now, the travel experience has improved significantly. It has made visiting these sacred places more accessible, especially for elderly pilgrims like me. What once felt like an uphill battle now feels much more manageable. I can walk with ease, without fear of slipping or getting hurt. More importantly, I can focus on my prayers and spiritual journey rather than worrying about the difficult path ahead. This development is truly a blessing for all of us.”

Chimi Yuden, a resident of Khoma Gewog, spoke about the challenges that the old trail presented. She explained, “Before this footpath was constructed, traveling to the sacred site was a real struggle. The old trail was full of loose stones, uneven ground, and narrow sections that made walking extremely difficult. It was even harder for elderly people, those with leg problems, and anyone carrying loads. I remember times when we had to stop and rest frequently because the climb was so exhausting. Even young people would struggle, especially when it rained, because the path would become slippery and dangerous.”

Chimi said, particularly elderly people, were hesitant to make the journey to the sacred site because of these difficulties. “Many elderly people, including my relatives, would avoid visiting the sacred site as often as they wanted to because they were afraid of falling or getting injured. Some even needed support from younger family members just to make the journey. We all wished for a safer and more accessible path, but for a long time, we had no choice but to use the difficult trail.”

Now that the footpath is completed, Chimi Yuden said that things have improved dramatically. “Now, everything is different. The footpath is smooth, wide enough for people to walk comfortably, and much safer than before. I can walk without worrying about slipping or tripping. Even when I carry offerings, I don’t feel as tired as before because the journey is easier. It has truly been a blessing for all of us. I have seen more elderly people visiting the sacred site, something that was rare before. I personally go more often now because I no longer feel exhausted after each trip.”
She also said the impact on tourists and pilgrims from outside the area. “This footpath is not just for us locals it has helped so many visitors. Before, we would see tourists struggling to walk, carefully stepping between the stones, or turning back because the path looked too difficult. But now, they can move freely, take their time, and enjoy the beauty of the place without stress. Even monks and pilgrims coming from far away have appreciated this improvement. This footpath has made our sacred place more welcoming to everyone.”

Chimi Yuden believes that the success of this footpath is just the beginning of better infrastructure for Khoma Gewog. “This project has shown us how important good infrastructure is. It has improved our daily lives and made our sacred site more accessible to all. I hope that in the future, we can have more such improvements perhaps resting places along the way or better lighting for those who travel early in the morning or late in the evening. With such changes, we can make our village an even better place for both locals and visitors.”

Sonam Dorji, 22 years old, a student who visits the area with friends, shared how the new footpath has changed the experience for younger visitors as well. “Before, we had to carefully watch our steps while walking on the old trail, and sometimes, we would slip, especially during the monsoon season. Now, the path is smooth and much safer, making it easier for us to enjoy the journey rather than worrying about falling. Even tourists who come here seem more comfortable exploring the area. It’s a big improvement, and I think it will encourage more young people to visit these sacred sites and learn about our cultural heritage.”

Pema tenzin, 45 years old, a farmer from Khoma Gewog, explained how the footpath has helped the local community. “This is not just about making it easier for pilgrims. Many of us rely on this route to travel between villages, carry goods, or visit family. Before, we had no choice but to take the rough trail, which was risky, especially when carrying loads. I have seen many people slip and get injured in the past. But now, walking here feels effortless. It saves time and energy for everyone. I am really grateful that this project was completed.”

A newly constructed footpath in Khoma Gewog, Lhuentse Dzongkhag, is set to ease travel for pilgrims, tourists, and local residents. The project, which was allocated a Gewog budget of Nu. Nine hundred seventy-nine thousand (979,000) was completed through a community contract, ensuring local participation in its development. With the new footpath in place, the residents believe it will preserve cultural heritage, promote tourism, and improve the quality of life for the people of Khoma Gewog. Many hope that future infrastructure projects will continue to enhance accessibility in the region while maintaining the spiritual significance of the sacred sites.