PLACES TO SEE
Places to see
Phuntsoling | Paro | Thimphu | Punakha | Wangdiphodrang | Gangtey |
Trongsa | Bumthang | Mongar | Trashigang | Trashiyangtse | Samdrup
Jongkhar | Lhuntse
Just as the kingdom's history is characterised by religious landmarks, the
influence of religion is highly visible in every day life of the lay population.
Bhutan is a spiritual nation. Hundreds of sacred monasteries, stupas,
religious institution, prayer flags and prayer wheels which dot the countryside
provide a strong infrastructure and atmosphere for the teachings of their
living faith.
Both urban and rural Bhutan, religious ceremonies and rituals are performed
regularly and with reverence. On auspicious days Bhutanese families make
pilgrimages to monasteries to offer prayers and butter lamps. The horoscope
of Bhutanese life is drawn from the scriptures. National and regional
festivities, coinciding with the seasons, are major events for the entire
population the year round. The Buddhist world, thus, regards the kingdom
with special importance as the last bastion of Mahayana Buddhism. Earlier
this century, an ethic Nepalese minority, settled in the southern regions of the
country, brought Hinduism which is regarded in Bhutan as being closely
related to Buddhism
PHUNTSHOLING
Phuntsholing, the gateway to the south, is a thriving commercial centre on the
northern edge of the Indian plains. Situated directly at the base of the
Himalayan foothills, Phuntsholing is a fascinating mixture of Indian and
Bhutanese, a perfect example of mingling of people and their culture. Being
the frontier town Phuntsholing serves as the convenient entry/exit point for
Bhutan and also the important link to visit the Indian state of West Bengal,
Sikkim and Assam.
What to see in Phuntsholing
Kharbandi Gompa : The beautiful monastery situated at an altitude of 1,300
feet, in garden of tropical plants and flowers was founded in 1967 by Royal
Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron. The monastery contains paintings
on the life of Buddha and statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru
Rimpoche.
From the monastery garden there is a fascinating view of Phuntsholing town
and surrounding plains.
Zangtho Pelri : A small temple built in the centre of Phuntsholing town,
represents the heaven of Guru Rimpoche. On ground level there are statues
of the eight manifestations of Guru Rimpoche and paintings on Buddha s life.
Next floor contains eight Bodhisttavas and statues of Avalokiteshwara and
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal while on top floor, the main statues is of
Amitabha.
PARO (Altitude 7,000 feet)
This beautiful valley which encapsulates within itself rich culture, scenic
beauty and hundreds of myths and legends, is home to many of Bhutan's
oldest temples and monasteries, the country's only airport and the National
Museum. Mount. Chomolhari (7,300 meters ) reigns in white glory at the
northern end of the valley and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges
to form the Pa Chu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in
the Kingdom, producing a bulk of the famous red rice from its terraced fields.
What to see in Paro
Drukgyel Dzong : This Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its foot,
was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his
victory over the Tibetan invaders led by Mongolian Warlord, Gushri Khan.
Historically and strategically this Dzong withstood all its glory and had
captured western eyes in 1914 vide National Geographic magazine. The
glory of Drukgyel Dzong remained even when it was destroyed by fire in
1951. On a clear day, one can see the commanding view of Mount.
Chomolhari from the village, below the Dzong.
Rinpung Dzong : Also known as " fortress of the heap of jewels ", it was built
during the time of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. The approach to
the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called the Nemi Zam. A walk
through the bridge to the Dzong, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view
of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also
venue of the Paro Tshechu, held once a year inspiring.
Ta Dzong : On a ridge immediately above the Rinpung Dzong is the Ta
Dzong, built in 1951 as a watch tower. Unlike the rectangular shape of the
Dzongs, Ta Dzong is round, more like parts of an European castle. Since
1967 the Dzong was re-established as the National Museum and holds a
fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan's
exquisite postage stamps.
Kyichu Lhakhang : The origin of Kyichu Lhakhang dates back to the
seventh century, it is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan (
the other is Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang ). Kyichu Lhakhang is composed
of twin temples, the first temple was built by Buddhist Tibetan King, Songtsen
Gampo in the 7th century and in 1968, H.M. Ashi Kessang, the Queen Mother
of Bhutan, arranged for a second temple to be built alongside the first one, in
same style.
Farm House : The beauty of Paro valley is embellished by cluster of quaint
Farm Houses. Bhutanese Farm Houses are very colorful, decorative and
traditionally built without the use of single nail. All houses follow the same
architectural pattern. A visit to Farm House is very interesting and offers a
good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer.
Kila Goemba : It is serene home of Buddhist nuns who have dedicated their
life for spiritual fulfillment and leading undisturbed life of religious studies,
prayer and meditation. The Goemba is nestled in a craggy patch on the
mountain side below the Chele la pass and perched precariously along the
rock face. From Chele la pass, the Lhakhang is about an hour walk amidst
magnificent wooded area.
Druk Choeding : Built in 1525, this town temple was built by Ngawang
Chhogyel, one of the prince-abbots of Ralung in Tibet and an ancestor of the
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
THIMPHU (altitude 7,600 feet)
The capital of Bhutan, and the centre of government, religion and commerce,
it is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development alongside
ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu
is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and the
monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural
style.
What to see in Thimphu
Memorial Chorten : This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan's
third King, His Late Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is popularly
regarded as the Father of Modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside
the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Tashichhodzong : Also known as " fortress of the glorious religion", the
Dzong was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji
Wangchuck in 1965. Tashichhodzong houses the main secretariat building
and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during Thimphu Tshechu and
when the monk body moves to warmer Punakha in the winter months.
Semtokha Dzong : Five miles from Thimphu, on a lofty ridge stands
Simtokha Dzong, built in 1627 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The oldest
fortress of the Kingdom, it now houses the School for Buddhist studies.
National Library : The history of Bhutan lies imprinted in archaic texts which
are preserved at the National Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and
ancient texts, the library also has modern academic books and printing blocks
for prayer flags.
Painting School : This School teaches the techniques of traditional
paintings. On a visit one can actually see students at work producing intricate
design on cloth.
Traditional Medicine Institute : In Bhutan, equal emphasis is given to both
allopathic and traditional medicines. The rich herbal medicines abundant in
Kingdom is prepared here. The Institute also imparts the art of herbal
medicines to would be practitioners.
Handicrafts Emporium : There are various Handicrafts Emporium in town
such as Government owned Emporium and Etho Metho Handicrafts,
displaying wide assortment of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products.
Weekend Market : Every Saturday and Sunday most of the Thimphu's
scant population and many valley duelers congregate on the banks of the
river where the weekend market is held. It is an interesting place to visit and
provides opportunity to mix up with the local people.
Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang : This chapel was built in 1990s by Dasho Aku
Tongmi, a musician who composed Bhutan's national anthem. The country's
tallest lhakhang, it is replica of Guru Rimpoche's celestial abode.
PUNAKHA (altitude 4,430 feet)
Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and still it is the winter
seat of Je Khenpo ( Chief Abbot ). Blessed with temperate climate and fed by
Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (female) rivers, Punakha is the most fertile
valley in the country. There are splendid view of the distant Himalayas at
Dochula pass ( alt. 3,100 m ) on Thimphu - Punakha road.
What to see in Punakha
Punakha Dzong : Built strategically at the Junction of Pho Chu and Mo
Chu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the
religious and administrative centre of the region. Damaged by four
catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by
the present King. The Dzong is open for visitors during Punakha festival and
in summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu.
WANGDIPHODRANG (Altitude 4,430 feet)
The last town before central Bhutan, Wangdiphodrang is like an enlarged
village with a few well provided shops. Located towards the south of Punakha,
the higher reaches of the Wangdiphodrang valley provides rich pastureland
for cattle. This district is also famous for its fine bamboo work and its slate,
stone carvings.
Wangdiphodrang Dzong : Sitting on top of the hill at the confluence of
Punakha Chu and Tang Chu rivers Wangdiphodrang Dzong is town's most
visible features. The Dzong is open for visitors during Wangdiphodrang
Tshechu, celebrated in Autumn.
GANGTEY GOMPA/PHOBJIKHA (altitude 9,840 feet)
Towards the east of Wangdiphodrang, there is an old monastery of Gangtey
Gompa dating back to the 17th century. A few kilometers past the Gompa, on
the valley floor is the village of Phobjikha. This is the winter home of black
necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in
milder and lower climate.
TRONGSA (altitude 7,600 feet)
Tongsa forms the central hub of the nation and is historically the place from
where attempts at unifying the country were launched. The landscape around
Tongsa is spectacular and for miles on end, the Dzong seems to tease you,
wondering if you will ever reach there.
What to see in tongsa
Tongsa Dzong : Built in 1648, it is the ancestral home of the Royal family.
Both the first and second King ruled the country from this ancient seat. All
four Kings held the post of Tongsa Penlop (honorary governor) prior to being
crowned as King. The Dzong is a massive structure with many levels which
slope down the contours of a hill on which it perches. Because of its highly
strategic position as the only connecting route between east and west, the
Tongsa Penlop was able to control the whole of the eastern region effectively.
Ta Dzong :This watch tower which once guarded Tongsa Dzong from internal
rebellion, stands impressively and provides visitors an insight into historical
significance of Tongsa in Bhutan's history.
Chendebji Chorten : Enroute to Tongsa is Chendbji Chorten, patterned on
Swayambhunath temple in Kathmandu. It was built in 19th century by Lama
Shida, from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was killed at this
spot.
BHUMTHANG (altitude 8,530 feet - 13,125 feet)
This fascinating valley is religious heartland of the nation and home to some
of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. Here tales of Guru
Padsambhava and his re-incarnates, known as Lingpas, still linger in most
nook and corners, that have become now sacred ground.
What to see in Bumthang
Jambey Lhakhang : This monastery was built in 7th century by Tibetan
King, Songtsen Gembo, believed to be the reincarnation of the Buddha of
compassion. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil
spirits in the Himalayan region.
Kurje Lhakhang : Located above Jambey Lhakhang, the Kurje Lhakhang
consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rock
face where Guru meditated in the 8th century. Second temple is built on the
site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru's body and is
therefore considered the most holy. The third temples was recently built by
the present Royal Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by
108 chorten wall, symbolic of each joint of the human body.
Tamshing Lhakhang : Located opposite Kurje Lhakhang on the other side
of the river, this temple was founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the
re-incarnation of Guru Padmasambhava. The monastery has very interesting
religious paintings like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of
Buddhistava). The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.
Jakar Dzong : Founded by great grand father of Shabdrung, the Dzong was
initially built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after the Shabdrung
had firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as
administrative centre for Bumthang valley.
Membertsho: It is one of the great pilgrimage site of Bhutan where Pema
Lingpa found the treasures hidden by Guru Rimpoche and thus became a
terton, a 'discoverer of religious treasures'. The importance of site is
indicated by extensive array of prayer flags and the small clay offerings.
MONGAR (altitude 5,575 feet)
The journey from Bumthang to Mongar is one of the most beautiful in the
Himalayas crossing 3,800 m high Thrunsingla pass. Mongar marks the
beginning of eastern Bhutan. The second largest town in the subtropical
east, Mongar, like Tashigang further east, is situated on the side of a hill in
contrasts to other towns of western Bhutan which are built on the valley floor.
What to see in Mongar
Mongar Dzong : It is the site of one of Bhutan's newest Dzongs, built in
1930s. Yet the Dzong is built in the same method and traditions of all the
other Dzongs, no drawings and nails have been used. A visit to the Dzong
gives visitors an impression of how traditional Bhutanese architecture has
continued to thrive through the centuries.
TRASHIGANG (altitude 3,775 feet)
In the far east of Bhutan, on the bank of Gamri Chu river, lies Tashigang, the
country's largest district. Tashigang , once the centre of a busy trade with
Tibet, is today the junction of east west highway with road connecting to
Samdrup Jongkhar and then to the Indian state of Assam. This town is also
used as the market place for the hill people from Merak and Sakteng who are
remarkable for their exceptional features and costumes.
What to see in Tashigang
Tashigang Dzong : Built in 1659 the Dzong serves as the administrative
seat for the district as well as the home of the monk body. The Dzong
commands remarkable view over the surrounding countryside.
Gom Kora : It is about 24 km from Tashigang although its in Tashiyangtse
district. The temple of Gom Kora is set on a small alluvial plateau overlooking
the river. It is one of the famous places where Guru Rimpoche meditated in
order to subdue a demon who dwelt in big rock. Behind the temple is an huge
black rock surrounded by rice fields and clumps of banana trees which looks
like an oasis in an arid landscape.
TRASHIYANGTSE (altitude 6,000 feet)
A few kilometers north of Tashigang, Tashiyangtse Dzong is half-hour walk
from the main road. Established in 1656, the Dzong was completely
renovated in 1976.Tashiyangtse is a small village with a garden aspect and a
lovely place from where to launch a couple of hour's stroll into surrounding
countryside. Nearby, Chorten Kora is one of only two temples in Bhutan, built
in Nepalese style and is host to a great festival celebrated every year.
Chorten Kora : It is based on stupa of Boudhanath in Nepal, and
constructed in 1740 by Lama Ngwang Loday. During the second month of
lunar calendar there is interesting clebration here, known as 'Kora".
Bomdelling: About one hour walk from Chorten Kora, Bomdeling is the
roosting place of a flock of black-necked cranes.
SAMDRUP JONGKHAR
The road from Tashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar was completed in 1960s and
enables the eastern half of the country to access and benefit from trade with
the south as well as across the Indian border. There is little for travelers to
see in this area but it is used as more convenient exit town.
LHUNTSE
Lhuntse is 77 km from Mongar and is one of the most isolated districts in
Bhutan. The landscape is spectacular with stark cliffs and gorges and dense
coniferous forests. The region is notably famed for its weavers and special
textiles and fabrics, generally considered to be the best in the country The
Kurtoe region of Lhuntse is also the ancestral home of Royal dynasty.
Phuntsoling | Paro | Thimphu | Punakha | Wangdiphodrang | Gangtey |
Trongsa | Bumthang | Mongar | Trashigang | Trashiyangtse | Samdrup
Jongkhar | Lhuntse
Just as the kingdom's history is characterised by religious landmarks, the
influence of religion is highly visible in every day life of the lay population.
Bhutan is a spiritual nation. Hundreds of sacred monasteries, stupas,
religious institution, prayer flags and prayer wheels which dot the countryside
provide a strong infrastructure and atmosphere for the teachings of their
living faith.
Both urban and rural Bhutan, religious ceremonies and rituals are performed
regularly and with reverence. On auspicious days Bhutanese families make
pilgrimages to monasteries to offer prayers and butter lamps. The horoscope
of Bhutanese life is drawn from the scriptures. National and regional
festivities, coinciding with the seasons, are major events for the entire
population the year round. The Buddhist world, thus, regards the kingdom
with special importance as the last bastion of Mahayana Buddhism. Earlier
this century, an ethic Nepalese minority, settled in the southern regions of the
country, brought Hinduism which is regarded in Bhutan as being closely
related to Buddhism
PHUNTSHOLING
Phuntsholing, the gateway to the south, is a thriving commercial centre on the
northern edge of the Indian plains. Situated directly at the base of the
Himalayan foothills, Phuntsholing is a fascinating mixture of Indian and
Bhutanese, a perfect example of mingling of people and their culture. Being
the frontier town Phuntsholing serves as the convenient entry/exit point for
Bhutan and also the important link to visit the Indian state of West Bengal,
Sikkim and Assam.
What to see in Phuntsholing
Kharbandi Gompa : The beautiful monastery situated at an altitude of 1,300
feet, in garden of tropical plants and flowers was founded in 1967 by Royal
Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron. The monastery contains paintings
on the life of Buddha and statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru
Rimpoche.
From the monastery garden there is a fascinating view of Phuntsholing town
and surrounding plains.
Zangtho Pelri : A small temple built in the centre of Phuntsholing town,
represents the heaven of Guru Rimpoche. On ground level there are statues
of the eight manifestations of Guru Rimpoche and paintings on Buddha s life.
Next floor contains eight Bodhisttavas and statues of Avalokiteshwara and
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal while on top floor, the main statues is of
Amitabha.
PARO (Altitude 7,000 feet)
This beautiful valley which encapsulates within itself rich culture, scenic
beauty and hundreds of myths and legends, is home to many of Bhutan's
oldest temples and monasteries, the country's only airport and the National
Museum. Mount. Chomolhari (7,300 meters ) reigns in white glory at the
northern end of the valley and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges
to form the Pa Chu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in
the Kingdom, producing a bulk of the famous red rice from its terraced fields.
What to see in Paro
Drukgyel Dzong : This Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its foot,
was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his
victory over the Tibetan invaders led by Mongolian Warlord, Gushri Khan.
Historically and strategically this Dzong withstood all its glory and had
captured western eyes in 1914 vide National Geographic magazine. The
glory of Drukgyel Dzong remained even when it was destroyed by fire in
1951. On a clear day, one can see the commanding view of Mount.
Chomolhari from the village, below the Dzong.
Rinpung Dzong : Also known as " fortress of the heap of jewels ", it was built
during the time of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. The approach to
the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called the Nemi Zam. A walk
through the bridge to the Dzong, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view
of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also
venue of the Paro Tshechu, held once a year inspiring.
Ta Dzong : On a ridge immediately above the Rinpung Dzong is the Ta
Dzong, built in 1951 as a watch tower. Unlike the rectangular shape of the
Dzongs, Ta Dzong is round, more like parts of an European castle. Since
1967 the Dzong was re-established as the National Museum and holds a
fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan's
exquisite postage stamps.
Kyichu Lhakhang : The origin of Kyichu Lhakhang dates back to the
seventh century, it is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan (
the other is Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang ). Kyichu Lhakhang is composed
of twin temples, the first temple was built by Buddhist Tibetan King, Songtsen
Gampo in the 7th century and in 1968, H.M. Ashi Kessang, the Queen Mother
of Bhutan, arranged for a second temple to be built alongside the first one, in
same style.
Farm House : The beauty of Paro valley is embellished by cluster of quaint
Farm Houses. Bhutanese Farm Houses are very colorful, decorative and
traditionally built without the use of single nail. All houses follow the same
architectural pattern. A visit to Farm House is very interesting and offers a
good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer.
Kila Goemba : It is serene home of Buddhist nuns who have dedicated their
life for spiritual fulfillment and leading undisturbed life of religious studies,
prayer and meditation. The Goemba is nestled in a craggy patch on the
mountain side below the Chele la pass and perched precariously along the
rock face. From Chele la pass, the Lhakhang is about an hour walk amidst
magnificent wooded area.
Druk Choeding : Built in 1525, this town temple was built by Ngawang
Chhogyel, one of the prince-abbots of Ralung in Tibet and an ancestor of the
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
THIMPHU (altitude 7,600 feet)
The capital of Bhutan, and the centre of government, religion and commerce,
it is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development alongside
ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu
is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and the
monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural
style.
What to see in Thimphu
Memorial Chorten : This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan's
third King, His Late Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is popularly
regarded as the Father of Modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside
the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Tashichhodzong : Also known as " fortress of the glorious religion", the
Dzong was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji
Wangchuck in 1965. Tashichhodzong houses the main secretariat building
and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during Thimphu Tshechu and
when the monk body moves to warmer Punakha in the winter months.
Semtokha Dzong : Five miles from Thimphu, on a lofty ridge stands
Simtokha Dzong, built in 1627 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The oldest
fortress of the Kingdom, it now houses the School for Buddhist studies.
National Library : The history of Bhutan lies imprinted in archaic texts which
are preserved at the National Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and
ancient texts, the library also has modern academic books and printing blocks
for prayer flags.
Painting School : This School teaches the techniques of traditional
paintings. On a visit one can actually see students at work producing intricate
design on cloth.
Traditional Medicine Institute : In Bhutan, equal emphasis is given to both
allopathic and traditional medicines. The rich herbal medicines abundant in
Kingdom is prepared here. The Institute also imparts the art of herbal
medicines to would be practitioners.
Handicrafts Emporium : There are various Handicrafts Emporium in town
such as Government owned Emporium and Etho Metho Handicrafts,
displaying wide assortment of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products.
Weekend Market : Every Saturday and Sunday most of the Thimphu's
scant population and many valley duelers congregate on the banks of the
river where the weekend market is held. It is an interesting place to visit and
provides opportunity to mix up with the local people.
Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang : This chapel was built in 1990s by Dasho Aku
Tongmi, a musician who composed Bhutan's national anthem. The country's
tallest lhakhang, it is replica of Guru Rimpoche's celestial abode.
PUNAKHA (altitude 4,430 feet)
Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and still it is the winter
seat of Je Khenpo ( Chief Abbot ). Blessed with temperate climate and fed by
Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (female) rivers, Punakha is the most fertile
valley in the country. There are splendid view of the distant Himalayas at
Dochula pass ( alt. 3,100 m ) on Thimphu - Punakha road.
What to see in Punakha
Punakha Dzong : Built strategically at the Junction of Pho Chu and Mo
Chu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the
religious and administrative centre of the region. Damaged by four
catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by
the present King. The Dzong is open for visitors during Punakha festival and
in summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu.
WANGDIPHODRANG (Altitude 4,430 feet)
The last town before central Bhutan, Wangdiphodrang is like an enlarged
village with a few well provided shops. Located towards the south of Punakha,
the higher reaches of the Wangdiphodrang valley provides rich pastureland
for cattle. This district is also famous for its fine bamboo work and its slate,
stone carvings.
Wangdiphodrang Dzong : Sitting on top of the hill at the confluence of
Punakha Chu and Tang Chu rivers Wangdiphodrang Dzong is town's most
visible features. The Dzong is open for visitors during Wangdiphodrang
Tshechu, celebrated in Autumn.
GANGTEY GOMPA/PHOBJIKHA (altitude 9,840 feet)
Towards the east of Wangdiphodrang, there is an old monastery of Gangtey
Gompa dating back to the 17th century. A few kilometers past the Gompa, on
the valley floor is the village of Phobjikha. This is the winter home of black
necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in
milder and lower climate.
TRONGSA (altitude 7,600 feet)
Tongsa forms the central hub of the nation and is historically the place from
where attempts at unifying the country were launched. The landscape around
Tongsa is spectacular and for miles on end, the Dzong seems to tease you,
wondering if you will ever reach there.
What to see in tongsa
Tongsa Dzong : Built in 1648, it is the ancestral home of the Royal family.
Both the first and second King ruled the country from this ancient seat. All
four Kings held the post of Tongsa Penlop (honorary governor) prior to being
crowned as King. The Dzong is a massive structure with many levels which
slope down the contours of a hill on which it perches. Because of its highly
strategic position as the only connecting route between east and west, the
Tongsa Penlop was able to control the whole of the eastern region effectively.
Ta Dzong :This watch tower which once guarded Tongsa Dzong from internal
rebellion, stands impressively and provides visitors an insight into historical
significance of Tongsa in Bhutan's history.
Chendebji Chorten : Enroute to Tongsa is Chendbji Chorten, patterned on
Swayambhunath temple in Kathmandu. It was built in 19th century by Lama
Shida, from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was killed at this
spot.
BHUMTHANG (altitude 8,530 feet - 13,125 feet)
This fascinating valley is religious heartland of the nation and home to some
of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. Here tales of Guru
Padsambhava and his re-incarnates, known as Lingpas, still linger in most
nook and corners, that have become now sacred ground.
What to see in Bumthang
Jambey Lhakhang : This monastery was built in 7th century by Tibetan
King, Songtsen Gembo, believed to be the reincarnation of the Buddha of
compassion. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil
spirits in the Himalayan region.
Kurje Lhakhang : Located above Jambey Lhakhang, the Kurje Lhakhang
consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rock
face where Guru meditated in the 8th century. Second temple is built on the
site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru's body and is
therefore considered the most holy. The third temples was recently built by
the present Royal Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by
108 chorten wall, symbolic of each joint of the human body.
Tamshing Lhakhang : Located opposite Kurje Lhakhang on the other side
of the river, this temple was founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the
re-incarnation of Guru Padmasambhava. The monastery has very interesting
religious paintings like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of
Buddhistava). The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.
Jakar Dzong : Founded by great grand father of Shabdrung, the Dzong was
initially built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after the Shabdrung
had firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as
administrative centre for Bumthang valley.
Membertsho: It is one of the great pilgrimage site of Bhutan where Pema
Lingpa found the treasures hidden by Guru Rimpoche and thus became a
terton, a 'discoverer of religious treasures'. The importance of site is
indicated by extensive array of prayer flags and the small clay offerings.
MONGAR (altitude 5,575 feet)
The journey from Bumthang to Mongar is one of the most beautiful in the
Himalayas crossing 3,800 m high Thrunsingla pass. Mongar marks the
beginning of eastern Bhutan. The second largest town in the subtropical
east, Mongar, like Tashigang further east, is situated on the side of a hill in
contrasts to other towns of western Bhutan which are built on the valley floor.
What to see in Mongar
Mongar Dzong : It is the site of one of Bhutan's newest Dzongs, built in
1930s. Yet the Dzong is built in the same method and traditions of all the
other Dzongs, no drawings and nails have been used. A visit to the Dzong
gives visitors an impression of how traditional Bhutanese architecture has
continued to thrive through the centuries.
TRASHIGANG (altitude 3,775 feet)
In the far east of Bhutan, on the bank of Gamri Chu river, lies Tashigang, the
country's largest district. Tashigang , once the centre of a busy trade with
Tibet, is today the junction of east west highway with road connecting to
Samdrup Jongkhar and then to the Indian state of Assam. This town is also
used as the market place for the hill people from Merak and Sakteng who are
remarkable for their exceptional features and costumes.
What to see in Tashigang
Tashigang Dzong : Built in 1659 the Dzong serves as the administrative
seat for the district as well as the home of the monk body. The Dzong
commands remarkable view over the surrounding countryside.
Gom Kora : It is about 24 km from Tashigang although its in Tashiyangtse
district. The temple of Gom Kora is set on a small alluvial plateau overlooking
the river. It is one of the famous places where Guru Rimpoche meditated in
order to subdue a demon who dwelt in big rock. Behind the temple is an huge
black rock surrounded by rice fields and clumps of banana trees which looks
like an oasis in an arid landscape.
TRASHIYANGTSE (altitude 6,000 feet)
A few kilometers north of Tashigang, Tashiyangtse Dzong is half-hour walk
from the main road. Established in 1656, the Dzong was completely
renovated in 1976.Tashiyangtse is a small village with a garden aspect and a
lovely place from where to launch a couple of hour's stroll into surrounding
countryside. Nearby, Chorten Kora is one of only two temples in Bhutan, built
in Nepalese style and is host to a great festival celebrated every year.
Chorten Kora : It is based on stupa of Boudhanath in Nepal, and
constructed in 1740 by Lama Ngwang Loday. During the second month of
lunar calendar there is interesting clebration here, known as 'Kora".
Bomdelling: About one hour walk from Chorten Kora, Bomdeling is the
roosting place of a flock of black-necked cranes.
SAMDRUP JONGKHAR
The road from Tashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar was completed in 1960s and
enables the eastern half of the country to access and benefit from trade with
the south as well as across the Indian border. There is little for travelers to
see in this area but it is used as more convenient exit town.
LHUNTSE
Lhuntse is 77 km from Mongar and is one of the most isolated districts in
Bhutan. The landscape is spectacular with stark cliffs and gorges and dense
coniferous forests. The region is notably famed for its weavers and special
textiles and fabrics, generally considered to be the best in the country The
Kurtoe region of Lhuntse is also the ancestral home of Royal dynasty.
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