Trashigang is a district located in the eastern part of Bhutan and is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and scenic landscapes. Here are some of the top places to visit in Trashigang:
Trashigang Dzong
The dzong was built in 1659 and is a major administrative center of the district.
The dzong is a six-story building that towers over the surrounding landscape. It is built on a hill overlooking the Dangmechu River and offers stunning views of the valley below. The dzong is surrounded by a high wall and can only be accessed through a wooden bridge that spans the river.
Trashigang Dzong is a beautiful example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with its white-washed walls, wooden balconies, and intricate carvings. The dzong houses several temples and shrines, including the Chorten Kora and the Guru Lhakhang.
The dzong is also home to several important government offices, including the district administration, court, and police station. Visitors can explore the grounds of the dzong and take in the stunning views of the surrounding valley. The dzong is open to visitors during certain hours of the day, but visitors must be dressed modestly and remove their shoes before entering any of the temples or shrines.
Radhi Village
The charming rural village is known for its unique textile weaving tradition that has been passed down through generations of women in the village.
The women of Radhi Village are skilled weavers and produce a distinctive type of fabric called Radhi Kira. The fabric is made from raw silk and is known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors. The weaving process is done entirely by hand and can take several months to complete a single kira (women's dress).
Visitors to Radhi Village can witness the weaving process firsthand and even purchase some of the finished products as souvenirs. In addition to textile weaving, the village is also known for its beautiful architecture and serene natural surroundings.
Radhi Village is surrounded by terraced rice fields, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the fields and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Rangjung Woesel Choling Monastery
The monastery was founded in 1989 by Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, and is now home to over 100 monks.
The monastery is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings, with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can explore the monastery's many halls and shrines, which are filled with intricate murals, sculptures, and other works of art.
The monastery also offers meditation and Buddhist teachings for those interested in learning more about the religion and its practices. Visitors can participate in guided meditations and attend teachings given by the resident monks.
Kanglung Zangtopelri Lhakhang
The temple was built in 1970 by the local community and is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, who is believed to have brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century.
The temple is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can climb a series of steps to reach the temple and explore its many halls and shrines, which are adorned with colorful murals and intricate carvings.
Gomphu Kora
It is a beautiful natural cave temple located near a peaceful and picturesque riverbank. The site is revered by the Bhutanese people as it is believed to have been visited by Guru Rinpoche, who is believed to have meditated in the cave.
The name "Gomphu Kora" literally means "the meditation site of the cave and the circumambulation of the sacred site." The site is named so because of the tradition of circumambulating around the temple three times as a form of devotion and to seek blessings.
Besides the temple, the surrounding area is also beautiful and worth exploring. The riverbank is a popular spot for picnics and relaxing, and there are many hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Merak village
The village is situated at an altitude of around 3,500 meters and is home to the Brokpa people, who are known for their unique culture and way of life.
One of the main attractions of Merak village is its stunning natural scenery. The village is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
They are known for their unique dress, which includes intricately woven woolen garments and distinctive hats. Visitors can learn about the Brokpa culture and way of life by visiting local homes and participating in cultural activities, such as traditional dances.
Merak village is also a great place to sample local cuisine, which includes dishes made with yak meat and dairy products. Visitors can try dishes such as yak butter tea, yak cheese, and yak meat dumplings, which are all staples of the Brokpa diet.
Sakten village
The village is situated at an altitude of around 2,900 meters and is home to the Brokpa people, who are known for their unique culture and way of life.
One of the main attractions of Sakten village is its stunning natural beauty. The village is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque streams, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Brokpa people of Sakten are known for their unique dress, which includes intricately woven woolen garments and distinctive hats.
It is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the local culture and enjoy the beauty of the Bhutanese countryside.