Trongsa Dzong, also known as Chhoekhor Raptentse Dzong – Choetse Dzong in short – is one of the largest and most spectacular dzongs strategically placed in the middle of the nation connecting the West with the East of Bhutan. First established in 1543, the fortress is renowned for its intricate traditional architecture. The Dzong itself is a labyrinth of temples, corridors and offices holding court over the local community. It is built on many levels into the side of the hill and can be seen from every approach to Trongsa heralding its strength as a defensive stronghold. Located overlooking Mangdechhu River, Trongsa Dzong was once the seat of power for the Wangchuck dynasty before official monarchy. The Trongsa region is so historically significant that the Crown Princes of Bhutan still take on the title of Trongsa Penlop (Governor) before assuming the throne.

The Ta Dzong, a cylindrical stone structure rising five storeys, was built in 1652 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, a task entrusted to him by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After more than 350 years, it has been resurrected into a classy museum, that represents a tasteful blend of tradition and modernity. There are 224 items on display including a sacred image of Sung Joenma Dorji Chang (self spoken Vajradharna), a bronze statue of Pema Lingpa, made by himself, and a number of centuries-old treasures like dance and ritual costumes and objects, ancient prayer books, paintings and scrolls, and textiles.

The Ta Dzong is a living museum and the main lhakhang in the Utse is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha (Gyaltsab Jampa), also known as the Future Buddha). A Khesar Lhakhang is dedicated to Khesar of Ling. The tower has always been a place of retreat and there are hermits in practice, including two yogis, who are in life long meditation. The Ta Dzong is the only structure that has been restored specifically to tribute the Wangchuck dynasty as Bhutan celebrates the centenary of the Monarchy.

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & National Holidays

Approximate four hours drive from Wangduephodrang is Chendbji Chorten, patterned on Swayambhunath temple in Kathmandu. It was built in 18th century by Lama Shida, from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was subdued at this spot.

The 23 km drive from Trongsa to Kuenga Rabten takes about an hour and passes through open countryside, high above a river gorge. The land slopes quite gently in this region, and farming is well developed, so there is much of interest to observe in the field and in the villages as one speeds along. Kuenga Rabten was the winter palace of the second King and is now looked after by the National Commission for Cultural Affairs. The building has a superb wood work and decorations. At present part of the palace is used as library. The top floor has an alter room with statues of Shakyamuni, Shabdrung and Guru Rimpoche. From the palace, one can take a hike up to the road and further along the village to a nunnery. The duration of the hike is about 25 minutes, with gradual ascent. There are about 80 nuns residing at the nunnery and one can visit their hostel, the main shrine and their dinning hall. This pleasant excursion from Trongsa offers further insights into the early days of Bhutan’s monarch.

This ancient village is approx. 7km from Trongsa and ideal for bird watching. Weather permitting, hiking through the dense forest provide ample opportunity to see various species of birds. At Semji, one can visit the village and subsequently continue hiking downhill till the high way, where your transportation can shuttle you back to Trongsa town. The whole hiking trip takes approximately 4-5 hours.

Perched on a hillside overlooking the village of Thruepang and amidst panoramic views of the surrounding area, Thruepang Palace is a historic Royal Palace where the third King of Bhutan, His Late majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck was born in 1928. He spent his formative years growing up within the palace walls. This magnificent structure holds great significance in the history of Bhutan and is recognized as a national heritage site. Thruepang Palace is currently off-limits to visitors.