Nearly in the middle of Bhutan is where Trongsa is located. One of Bhutan’s best and most endearing regions, so the saying goes. And with good reason—the area is breathtaking in terms of both beauty and the surrounding natural landscape. The stronghold is located on a ridge with a stunning frontal view. The spotless fortress is stunning in and of itself. The residence of King Ugyen Wangchuk and his son is Trongsa. A stunning piece of architecture, the stronghold is followed by a succession of several temples and lovely hallways. In 1543, the town’s first temple was built. Since then, the town has seen the construction of numerous temples. They are all valuable in their own right. The area is a stunning fusion of historic dynasties and old Buddhist architecture.
OVERVIEW
Location: Bhutan
Nearest Airport: Trongsa
How to reach: 6 hours from Paro airport by road, 35 min by flight
Famous for: the erstwhile seat of the powerful Wangchuck dynasty
Best time to visit: All year round
WHAT TO SEE
Ta Dzong Museum Trongsa, Central Bhutan
Kuenga Rabten, Central Bhutan
Chendebji Chorten, Central Bhutan
Trongsa Dzong
On the left bank of the Mangde River, about a kilometer from Trongsa, sits the Ta Dzong Museum. This was constructed by Choeje Minjur Tenpa, the first governor of Trongsa. One of the top tourist destinations in Bhutan, this museum was just opened in 2008.
There are 11 galleries in all. It is a cylindrical tower with five stories. Two other towers are located around it as well. The Wangchuk dynasty’s history is portrayed in this museum. There are two temples within this dzong. These temples are devoted to Maitreya, also known as the Buddha of the New Age and the Gesar of Ling.
The Trongsa Dzong was constructed in 1644. This served as the Wangchuk dynasty’s center of power. In 1907, they then took over as the country’s rulers. One must first become the governor of Trongsa and then the crown prince in order to become the king of Bhutan. One can only become the King after this.
Chendebji Chorten – The Lama Zhida built Chendebji Chorten in the 18th century. This was done in order to free a trapped demonic soul that was still there. The Swayambhunath Stupa in Kathmandu is decorated with the eyes of the spirit at four different locations.
The Kuenga Rabten is a stunning palace that is 23 kilometers from Trongsa town. There are currently over 100 monks living there. They study their religious books and practices in the Drukpa Kagyu monastery. During the winter, Jigme Wangchuk, the second monarch of the nation, resided in the palace. Roadways are the quickest route to this location. The palace is seen from the Trongsa-Zhemgang highway. The greatest option for exploring the palace there would be to take a taxi.
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