Hike to Kabji Hoka Tsho in Punakha
Hoka Tsho is located at an elevation of 2130 meters above sea level, which is present under Punakha Dzongkhag. Hoka Tsho (lake) lies 9 miles away from the Chorten Nyingtob. Basically, it takes about 3 to 4 walking hours to reach the lake.
Similar to many other hikes, the lake is one of the ideal locations for day hikes, overnight camping trips, or glamping adventures. But as of now, a pilgrimage to Kheng Buli Tsho is one of the best hikes or treks to lakes in Bhutan, with Hoka Tsho making in the second place.
Brief History of Hoka Tsho (Lake)
According to Kabji Hoka Tsho’s story, the lake never overflows. It is because the lake is drained continuously through an opening believed to have been created by the lake’s deity. The opening was created after a demon has threatened to flood the place.
Hoka Tsho, hence the lake with a hole is hidden away in the middle of dense jungle vegetation. Upon reaching the lake, a small path leads down to the water for some magnificent views of Hoka tsho in its peaceful and untouched surroundings.
Hike to Hoka Tsho
The hike starts from Chorten Nyingbo, the winter residence of Trulku Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay. It is commandable to seek blessings for a safe hike before you proceed from Chorten Nyingbo Temple to the Kabji Hoka Tsho.
The hike is along the irrigation channel to the lake and takes up to 2-3 hours. Along the way, you will be treated to an array of lush flora and soothing chirps of birds. The murky paths are seldom encountered where your zeal for trekking is tested. Surrounded by the forest and mountains, you will get closer to nature as you breathe the fresh air and acknowledge the hospitality of nature. When you get to nearer to the lake, a small trail downhill leads to the main lake, where you get some of the best views of Hoka Tsho in its serene and pristine surroundings.
Though the lake is hidden amidst the thick vegetation, it’s amazing to see the vast greenery surrounding the lake. The vast and eerie lake bloomed by the petals of pristine mountains, sits majestically greeting the hikers with a gentle breeze of welcome as one gets nearer. The serene lake has also shown hospitality to the fishes who found their abode there. The Kabji Hoka Tsho has also designated its lush plain surrounding as a spot for lunching, camping or glamping for the hikers who believe in the fun in the nature.
Many visitors offer incense and milk as they pray for the well-being of all sentient beings. One can also seek the wisdom from nature to bestow the world with a wealth of self-awareness to fight against climate change.
The beauty of the lake’s warm welcome would pull you back to spend another moment gazing at the lake in reverence as the setting sun paints warning across the western horizon. As you drag yourself back home, there would always be a promise of visiting again later, if not soon, definitely.
When can one hike to the Hoka Tsho?
As in the many popular hikes, summer isn’t the best time to hike, because it is slippery along the main path, and if you slip your lake, it could be more dangerous. Moreover, the prying leeches are big and sticky, they may be a nuisance to the hikers. Even more scary to new hikers who are not exposed to the insects and leeches of the nature. Therefore, the best time would be spring when nature adorns a fresh look and winter when the snowfall beautifies the vicinity.