Dungkar Nagtshang is a historically significant structure located in the Dungkar valley of Lhuentse District, northeastern Bhutan. Established in the late 16th century by Drekha and Lankha, the twin sons of Pemalingpa’s grandson, Kuenga Gyaltshen, it serves as a center for the Peling tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The site is named after the conch-shaped ridge on which it stands, and it is traditionally associated with the Dungkar Choeje lineage.
Dungkar Nagtshang holds profound cultural and spiritual significance, housing sacred relics (terma) discovered by revered figures such as Terton Pema Lingpa and Desi Tenzin Rabgay. The site continues to be a focal point for religious practices, particularly during the Dungkar Tsechhu (terchham), a three-day mask dance festival held annually from the 8th to the 11th day of the 11th lunar month. These dances, known as Terchhams, were originally choreographed by Pemalingpa himself.
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote the heritage of Dungkar Nagtshang. The Lhuentse Dzongkhag Administration has initiated the establishment of the Wangchuck Heritage Centre within the Nagtshang to showcase artifacts and textiles from the era of Jigme Namgyal, the father of the first King of Bhutan, and his forefathers. This project aims to highlight the region’s rich cultural history and the contributions of the Wangchuck dynasty to Bhutan’s development.
Dungkar Nagtshang remains a vital cultural and spiritual landmark in Bhutan, offering insights into the nation’s religious traditions and the legacy of the Wangchuck dynasty.
