Membartsho — literally "burning lake" — is a narrow gorge in the Tang Valley where the Tang Chhu river cuts through a rocky cleft. The pool at the bottom, surrounded by sheer cliffs hung with prayer flags, is one of the most atmospheric spots in Bhutan. The site is sacred to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism as the place where Terton Pema Lingpa revealed his first treasure.
The drive from Jakar takes about 40 minutes on a good road. From the parking area, a short path leads down to the viewing point above the gorge. Butter lamps are sold at a small shop near the entrance; pilgrims float them on the water as offerings. The combination of the deep green pool, the cliff walls, and the hanging prayer flags makes this one of the more visually striking sacred sites in Bhutan.