Pema Gatshel is the smallest district in Bhutan. It covers part of an ancient region called Dungsam which was on the trade route between Trashigang and the Indian State of Assam. It is a rural district with scattered gypsum mines. Tsebar village in Pema Gatshel is also known for its skilled craftsmen especially of religious musical instruments.

Druk Minjur Dechen Dzong

Pema Gatshel, with its meaning “lotus garden of happiness”, is a district in south-eastern Bhutan, covering an area of 517.8 sq.km. The district is characterized by varying altitudes, ranging from 1,000 to 3,500 meters. Over half of Pema Gatshel is blanketed by broadleaf and coniferous forests, with the remaining land used for farming.

The district is rich in cultural traditions, particularly its festivals and folk music. One of the most cherished songs is the Ausa, which is sung during the departure of loved ones, a poignant tradition that showcases the emotional bonds in the community. Since the creation of the Pema Gatshel Dzongkhag in the early 1980s, the district has been home to an annual Tshechu festival. This vibrant festival, held over three days, is a key event in the local cultural calendar, drawing the community together in celebration of Bhutanese heritage, religion, and traditions. 

Yongla Goenpa/Yongla Riwo Pelbar Dargeychoeling Goenpa

Yongla Goenpa in Pema Gatshel was reconstructed under the command of His Majesty The King, after the 2009 earthquake caused major damage to the Goenpa. It is believed that Yongla Goenpa guards Bhutan’s sovereignty from south and Rigsum Goenpa in Trashi Yangtse from north. The two Goenpas hold immense historical significance.

Yongla Goenpa sits majestically on a mountain top resembling Phurba or a ritual dagger, overlooking the valleys of Samdrup Jongkhar and the plains of Assam. It is prominently visible from Tshelingor on the Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar highway. However, the Goenpa’s historical significance was never recorded until Lam Sonam Zangpo, who was the Goenpa’s Lam between 1969 and 1970 asked Lopen Dozang from Yurung (Pema Gatshel) to record the Goenpa’s history.

Lotus Valley Eco-Campsite 

The campsite is a youth-run, sustainable retreat in Yurung bridge, situated approximately three-kilometers from Druk Minjur Dechen Dzong. It offers a range of amenities including comfortable lodging (tents with basic facilities), a traditional hot stone bath (muscle relaxation), and a lively night campfire accompanied by cultural experience. The campsite is also the base for the Lotus Valley Eco-Trail and serves as a resting point for trekkers journeying through the region. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, it provides a refreshing escape where visitors can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the outdoors.