About four hours’ drive from Wangduephodrang is the central district of Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family
and from where the first two kings ruled the kingdom. Long before you reach it, you see the resplendent Trongsa Dzong in
the valley centre. Its labyrinth of temples, corridors, offices and living quarters for the monks add up to a masterpiece in
Bhutanese architecture preserved through professional restoration in 2004. Trongsa, literally "New Town" in the Dzongkha
language, is where the current monarchy had its origin in Bhutan. Each King in the line of succession has held the post of
Trongsa Penlop or Governor before donning the Raven Crown. The foundations of Trongsa Dzong were laid in the 16th
century by. Its foundation was laid by Pema Lingpa and flourished during the 17th century under Shabdrung Ngwang
Namgyal. The impressive fortress is a massive structure, its wall looming high above the winding Mangde Chu
Valley,commanding the east-west road
Activities
Chendebji Chorten
Just 2 kilometers beyond Chendebji village lies the Chendebji Chorten, gracefully situated at the confluence of two rivers. This large white stupa, modeled after the iconic Swayambhunath Stupa in Kathmandu, was built in the 19th century by Lama Shida. According to legend, it was constructed to subdue and seal the remains of a malevolent spirit that once haunted the area. Set amidst a tranquil landscape, the chorten offers a peaceful and spiritually significant stop along your journey.
Trongsa Dzong
It was laid in the 16th century by Pema Lingpa and flourished during the 17th century under Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyal. The impressive fortress is a massive structure, its wall looming high above the winding Mangde Chu Valley, commanding the east-west road.
Trongsa Museum (Taa Dzong)
Rising above the valley and overlooking the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, the Tower of Trongsa offers a captivating stop on your journey through central Bhutan. Once a strategic watchtower, this historic structure has been thoughtfully restored and transformed into a museum dedicated to the Wangchuck dynasty, Bhutan’s royal family.
Inaugurated by His Majesty the King during the nation’s centenary celebration of monarchy, the museum showcases a refined blend of traditional Bhutanese architecture and modern exhibition design. Inside, you get to explore 224 rare and sacred artifacts. This enriching visit offers a deep dive into Bhutan’s spiritual and royal heritage, set against the stunning backdrop of the Trongsa valley.
Rest In Bumthang
After the long drive, we rest for tonight.
Hotel
Valley Resort or similar
3 star