Isn’t it fascinating how a place can be both central and yet feel like a world apart? That’s Uesu Gewog for you. I am excited to share its story with you. Uesu Gewog, or Central Gewog, is a unique village block in Haa District.
In 2002, Uesu Gewog covered 67.7 square kilometers. Almost two hundred households were scattered across this area. Today, Uesu Gewog shares borders with Paro District. It also borders Bji, Katsho, and Samar Gewogs.
Uesu Gewog is home to several important Buddhist temples. These temples add a spiritual dimension to the natural beauty. Lhakhang Karpo is one such gem. It is also known as the White Temple. Legend says it was established in the 7th century. That was during the reign of Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo. Lhakhang Karpo sits near the main road.
Currently, Lhakhang Karpo is undergoing extensive restoration. The monks’ quarters are being completely rebuilt. Not far from Lhakhang Karpo stands Lhakhang Nagpo. This is the Black Temple. It was established around the same time as its white counterpart. Inside, you will find a small pool. This pool is associated with the Buddhist protector Mahākāla.
Legends swirl around these temples. One tale speaks of rays of light emanating from Chögyal Songtsen Gampo. Where the bright rays landed, Lhakhang Karpo was built. Lhakhang Nagpo marks where the dark rays fell.
Another story tells of two pigeons. A white one and a black one. They flew from Tibet. These pigeons, emanations of Songtsen Gampo, landed where the temples now stand. Still another account credits three groups of people. They emerged from the nearby Miri Phünsum. These are the three brother hills of Haa.
There is also Shelkardra. It means white crystal crag. Shelkardra is considered a sacred place of Padmasambhava. It is near Lungtso village. Shelkardra sits behind Avalokiteshvara. This is the central hill of the Miri Phünsum. Jigme Tenzin once resided at the temple here. He was the sixth speech incarnation of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
The people of Uesu Gewog get their health services from Bali BHU. It is located 5 km away in Katsho Gewog. Six government-owned lhakhangs dot the landscape. There are also three community lhakhangs. Plus, there is one private lhakhang.
Uesu Gewog has embraced technology. The Gewog Administration Office and the Community Center are connected to the internet. They provide both online and offline services.
The Meri-Puensum mountains stand tall here. They represent Jampelyang, Chana Dorji, and Chenrezig. These temples, Lhakhang Karpo and Nagpo, enrich Uesu Gewog. B-Mobile and T-Cell networks provide connectivity.
All households have electricity. Safe drinking water is accessible through a rural water supply scheme. There are forest groups, poultry farms, and dairy groups here. Farm roads connect all the villages. Uesu Gewog blends tradition and progress seamlessly.