Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho)

Bumthang, Bumthang District, Bhutan

---

Burning Lake, known locally as Mebar Tsho, is one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, located in the Bumthang Valley of Bumthang District. Despite its name, it is not a lake but a deep pool in the Tang Chhu River associated with the revered Buddhist saint Pema Lingpa. According to legend, Pema Lingpa entered the water holding a burning butter lamp and emerged with hidden religious treasures, while the lamp remained lit, giving the site its famous name. Surrounded by forested hills and prayer flags, Mebar Tsho is a place of spiritual reflection where pilgrims come to pray, make offerings, and seek blessings. Its deep religious significance, natural beauty, and connection to Bhutanese Buddhist history make Burning Lake one of the country’s most revered cultural and spiritual landmarks.