Trongsa is a historical town located in central Bhutan, which serves as the administrative capital of the Trongsa district. Trongsa means ‘new village’ and it was founded in the 16th-century after the construction of a temple here by Ngagi Wangchuk, who was the ancestor of Zhabdrung Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan.
Trongsa is located above the gorge of the Mangde river and nestled among forested mountain slopes, guaranteeing splendid natural sights for its visitors. The highlight of Trongsa is the unmissable Trongsa Dzong which is visible from every part of the town.
Chökhor Raptentse Dzong (Trongsa Dzong)
The imposing 17th-century Trongsa Dzong located on a hilltop is the largest and one of the oldest of Bhutan’s dzongs. The surrounding landscape of rolling mountains and lush greenery add to the beauty of the Dzong’s grand structure. It is an important centre of administration and religion. In olden days, the only path that connected east and west Bhutan ran through this Dzong and on the King’s orders, the doors could be shut to separate the two halves.
An exciting labyrinth of narrow stairs and corridors connect the various structures within the Dzong. There are around 25 lhakhangs (temples) that house Tantric deities among which the Maitreya Lhakhang which holds the Buddha of the Future statue and the Temple of Chortens are the most important. Almost all the interior works of paintings, murals and carvings date back to the reign of Ugyen Wangchuk, Bhutan’s first King. On the eastern part of the Dzong is the Ta Dzong, the six-storeyed watch tower which today serves as a museum. There is an imposing 60 metre tall cypress tree, just outside the compound, and is almost 400 years old which makes it as old as the Dzong itself.
Taphey Goemba
Taphey Goemba is a popular day trip from Trongsa that will surely excite enthusiasts of hiking, meditation and of course, nature. In northern Trongsa lies Taphey Goemba, a meditation retreat, high up on a hill. Once you manage to pull yourself up here, you will understand why this location is perfect for meditation. The pristine natural landscape of sloping hills and greenery and being cut off from the noisy world create a truly other-worldly experience.
You can begin your trek from the Yuling village on the foothills and also visit its elaborate lhakhang. After you visit the Taphey Goemba, (if you have any energy left!) you can continue uphill and reach the Singye Tang from where you can gaze open-mouthed at the majestic Himalayan lines.
Thru Epang Palace
The Thru Epang Palace might not live up to the grand and lavish expectations you might have from a palace, as it is just a simple and elegant two-storeyed structure. It displays typical Bhutanese architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery. This Palace was the birthplace and childhood home of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third King of Bhutan. Though visitors are not allowed in the premises, you can easily spot the palace from the road on the way to Trongsa Dzong.
Why should you visit?
Trongsa is steeped in rich Bhutanese history and is home to the country’s most impressive architectural sight. Adding to this, the natural beauty and small town charm of Trongsa, make it an interesting place to visit.
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