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East India Tourist Destination (Bhutan -The Old Heriatge)
Bhutan -The Old Heriatge
PHUENTSHOLING
The frontier town, it is a thriving commercial centre, situated directly
at the base of Himalayan foothills. It is a fascinating place where different
ethnic groups mingle prominently Indian, Bhutanese and Nepalese. Being
the border town, Phuentsholing serves as the convenient entry/exit point
for Bhutan and also the important link to visit the Indian state of West
Bengal, Sikkim and Assam.
Places of Interest in PHUENTSHOLING
Zangtho Pelri
Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru
Rinpoche. On ground floor there are statues of eight manifestations of
Guru Rinpoche and paintings on Buddha’s life while the next floor
contains eight Bodhisattavas and statues of Avalokiteshvara and Shabdrung
Ngawang Namgyal. On top floor, there is a main statue of Amitabha.
Kharbandi Goemba
Founded in 1967 by Royal Grand Mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron and situated
at the altitude of 400m, this beautiful monastery contains paintings on
the life of Buddha, statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rinpoche.
From the monastery garden there is a fascinating view of Phuentholing
town and surrounding plains.
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PARO
The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates within itself a rich culture,
scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of
Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, National Museum and country’s
only airport. Mount. Chomolhari (7,314m) reigns in white glory at the
northern end of the valley and its glacial water plunge through deep gorges
to form Pa Chhu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most fertile valley
in the Kingdom producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its
terraced fields.
Places of Interest in PARO
Rinpung Dzong
Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal , the first spiritual and
temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro,
the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon
(judge) of Paro district. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional
covered bridge called Nemi Zam. A walk through the bridge, over a stone
inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong
as well as life around it. It is also the venue of Paro Tshechu, held
once a year in the sprng.
Ta Dzong
One time watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dozng during inter-valley
wars of the 17th century, since 1967 Ta Dzong is serving as the National
Museum of the country. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics,
religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps.
The museum circular shape augments its varied collection displayed over
several floors.
Drukgyel Dzong
This Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its foot, was built in
1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan
invaders. Historically and strategically this Dzong withstood all its glory
and was featured in 1914 vide National Geographic magazine. The glory of
Drukgyel Dzong remained even when its was destroyed by fire in 1951. On
a clear day, one can see the commanding view of Mount. Chomolhari from the
village, below the Dzong.
Kila Goemba
It is the serene home of Buddhist nuns who have dedicated their life for
spiritual fulfillment and leading undisturbed life of religious studies,
prayer and meditation. The goemba is nestled in a craggy patch on mountain
side below the Chelela pass and perched precariously along the rock face.
From Chelela pass, the lhakhang is about an hour walk amidst magnificent
wooded area.
Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest)
It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the
side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche
arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and
hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognised
as a most sacred place and visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646
and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19
April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but
now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour.
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THIMPHU
The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and
commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development
alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital
city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants,
expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character
in its architectural style.
Places of Interest in THIMPHU
Trashichhodzong
Also know as ‘fortress of the glorious religion’, it was initially
built in 1641 and later rebuilt in its present form by King Jigme Dorji
Wangchuk in 1965. The Dzong houses, main secretariat building which houses
the throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly
Hall is housed in a modern building on the other side of the river from
the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His
Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.
Memorial Chorten
This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan ‘s third King,
His Late Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly regarded
as Father of modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside the monument
provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Simtokha Dzong
Five miles from Thimphu stands the 17th century Simtokha Dzong standing
on a lofty ridge. Built in 1627, the oldest Dzong in the country, it now
houses the School for Buddhist studies.
National Library
The history of Bhutan lies imprinted in archaic texts, which are preserved
at the National Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and ancient
texts, the library also has modern academic books and printing blocks
for prayer flags.
Painting School
This school teaches the techniques of traditional thangkha paintings.
On a visit, one can see students at work producing intricate design on
cloth.
Traditional Medicine Institute
The rich herbal medicines abundant in Kingdom are prepared here. The
Institute also imparts the art of herbal medicines to would be practitioners.
The Textile and Folk Heritage Museum
Established in 2001, these are fascinating testimony of the Bhutanese
living traditions reflecting Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage.
Handicrafts Emporiums
There are various Handicrafts Emporiums in town displaying a wide assortment
of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products.
Weekend Market
Every Saturday and Sunday most of Thimphu’s scant population and many
valley dwellers congregate on the banks of the river where weekend market
is held. It is an interesting place to visit and provides opportunity to
mingle with the local people.
Changangkha Lhakhang
It is a fortress like temple andmonastic school perched on a ridge above
Thimphu, south of Motithang. The temple was established in 12th century
on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who came from Tibet. The
central statue here is Chenrezig in a manifestation with 11 heads. From
temple courtyard, there is fascinating view of Thimphu valley.
Excursions around THIMPHU
Tango Goemba
This monastery was founded by Lama gyalwa Lhanangpa in the 12th century
and the present building was built in the 15th century by the ‘Divine
Madman’, Lama Drukpa Kunley. In 1616 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal visited
Tango and meditated in a cave near the monastery. His meditation helped
ensure the defeat of an invading Tibetan army. The head Lama, a descendent
of Lama Drukpa Kunley presented the goemba to Shabdrung, who carved a sandalwood
statue of Chenrezig which he installed in the monastery.
The picturesque three-storey tower and several surrounding buildings
were built in the 18th century by the eighth Desi, Druk Rabgye and Shabdrung
Jigme Chhogyel added the golden roof in the 19th century.
Cheri Goemba
This monastery was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620. A silver
chorten inside the monastery holds the ashes of Shabdrung’s father.
The goemba is situated about half an hour walk from Dodena (alt. 2,600m).
The trail commences by crossing a lovely covered bridge that spans the
Thimphu Chhun, then climbs steeply to the monastery.
Phajoding Goemba
It is a 5 km uphill walk from Motithang. The monastery was built in 15th
century by Shagcha Rinchen who introduced the Drukpa Kagyupa school in
Bhutan in the 13th cneutry. It was one time one of the richest monasteries
in the country.
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PUNAKHA
Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until and still it is the winter
seat of Je Khnep (the chief abbot). Blessed with temperate climate and
owing to its natural drainage from Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female)
rivers, the Punakha valley produces abundant crops and fruits. There are
splendid views of the distant Himalayas at Dochula pas (alt. 3,050m) on
Thimphu – Punakha road.
Places of Interest in PUNAKHA
Punakha Dzong
Built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in
1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative
centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s
history. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong
has been fully restored by the present King. The Dzong is open for visitors
during Punakha festival and in summer months when the monk body moves
to Thimphu.
Excursions around PUNAKHA
Chimi Lhakhang
The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley,
is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used
humour, songs and outrageous behaviour to dramatise his teachings and
due to this also known as ‘Divine Madman’. This temple is also
known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who
do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they
are usually blessed with a child very soon. It is about 30 minute walk
across field from the road to the temple. The trail leads across rice
fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. It then
follows a tiny stream downhill to Yoaka and across more fields before
making a short climb to Chimi Lhakhang.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
A beautiful hike takes one to the regal Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten,
which was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability
and harmony in the changing world. The Chorten dominates the upper Punakha
Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu and up towards the mountainous
peaks of Gasa and beyond.
Limbukha
Drive to Punakha Dzong which can be visited from the month of April to
November when the Je Khenpo (chief abbot) moves to Thimphu. Walk across
the suspension bridge (about 200m long) through absolutely fresh breeze
and fascinating view of Dzong. Follow the farm houses gradually climbing
towards Dompala hills. The view of Dzong, Pho Chhu, Mo Chhu rivers and
surrounding village is superb amidst chirpine forests. The climb is another
two and a half hours to Limbukha.
Limbukha farmers grow Bhutan’s famous red rice which is supposed
to have medicinal values. This particular rice needs clean mountain spring
so that the taste is good and nutritional value maintained. Limbukha is
also known for its love of peace and tranquility. Legends says that during
medieval wars the ‘limpus’ or the people of Limbukha always
volunteered as peace negotiators. This is also depicted during yearly
festival called ‘Serda’ when the men are found carrying peace
flags instead of swords and fireworks.
Talo
The village of Talo (alt. 2,800m) which is scattered along the hill slopes,
known for its cleanliness and hygiene among Punakha villages. Talo Sangnacholing
is built on a plateau and has majestic view of surrounding villages. The
beautiful farm houses of the village have its own flower gardens and on
the hill slope corns and sweet peas are grown in abundance. The women
of Talo are particular known for their beauty.
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WANGDUEPHODRANG
Wangduephodrang is the last town on the central highway before central
Bhutan. The town is not more than an enlarged village with a few well-provided
shops. Located in the south of Punakha, the higher reaches of the Wangduephodrang
valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. This district is also famous
for its fine bamboo products, slate and stone carvings.
Places of Interest in WANGDUEPHODRANG
Wangduephodrang Dzong
Sitting on top of the hill at the confluence of Punakha Chhu and Tang
Chhu rivers, Wangduephodrang Dzong is town’s most visible features.
The Dzong is open for visitors during Wangduephodrang Tsechu celebrated
in autumn.
Gangtey & Phobjikha
The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. The
surprise of finding such a wide, flat valley without any trees after the
hard climb through dense forests is augmented by an impression of vast
space, and extremely rare experience in Bhutan where most of the valley’s
are tightly enclosed.
A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery , on the valley floor lies
the village of Phobjikha. This place is the winter home of black necked
cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter winter
in milder and lower climate. Phobjikha, at an altitude of 2900 m, falls
under the district of Wangduephodrang and lies on the periphery of the
Black Mountain National Park. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering
rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap-black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp-white
water). According to a local legend, the two rivers actually represent
a snake and a boar. The two animals once raced each other with an agreement
that if the snake (Nakay Chhu) won, Phobjikha valley would be able to
grow rice, but if the boar won, then rice could never be cultivated in
the area. The snake lost since it had to meander all the way during its
journey. Rice cannot be cultivated in the valley even today.
Gangtey Goempa
Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor, the Gangtey
Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black
Mountain’s and also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. The
Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families
of the 140 Gomchens who take care of the Monastery.
Gangtey was founded by Pema Trinley, the grand son of Pema Lingpa, the
famous Nyingmapa saint of Bhutan. In 1613, Pema Trinley establish the
monastery and became the first Gangtey Tulku. The religious traditions
of Pema Lingpa still taught there. The second Tulku, Tenzin Legpa Dondrup
(1645 to 1726), enhanced the size of Gangtey while keeping up good relations
with Drukpas, and rebuilt the monastery in the form of a Dzong.
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TRONGSA
Trongsa forms the central hub of the nation and is historically the place
from where attempts at unifying the country were launched. Both His Majesty
King Ugyen Wangchuck, the Penlop of Trongsa, who was elected the country’s
first hereditary monarch and his successor, King Jigme Wangchuck, ruled
the country from Trongsa ancient seat. The Crown Prince of Bhutan normally
holds the position of the Trongsa Penlop prior to ascending the throne
including the present King who was appointed Penlop in 1972, shortly before
his succession to the throne. The entire landscape around Trongsa is spectacular.
Places of Interest in TRONGSA
Chendbji Chorten
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.
Trongsa Dzong
Like almost all towns in the Kingdom, this Dzong architecture dominates
the entire Trongsa horizon dwarfing the surrounding buildings. Built in
1648, it was the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Both the
first and second King ruled the country from this ancient seat. Protected
from invaders by an impenetrable valley, Trongsa Dzong is an impregnable
fortress. 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.
Ta Dzong
This watch tower which once guarded Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion,
stands impressively and provides visitors an insight into historical significance
of Trongsa in Bhutan’s history.
Excursions around TRONGSA
Kuenga Rabten
It is about 23 km, one hour interesting drive from Trongsa. Kuenga Rabten
was the winter palace of the second King and now looked after by National
Commission for Cultural Affairs. It is pleasant afternoon trip from Trongsa
and offers good insight into the early days of Bhutan monarchy.
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BUMTHANG
Bumthang has an individuality that charms its visitors and separates
it from other regions. Comprising of four smaller valleys, the deeply
spiritual region of Bumthang is shrouded in religious legend. Bumthang
is also the traditional home to the great Buddhist teacher Pema Linga
to whose descendants the present dynasty traces its origin.
Places of Interest in BUMTHANG
Jambey Lhakhang
This monastery was built in the 7th century by Tibetan King, Songtsen
Gampo. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits
n the Himalayan region. Its present architectural appearance dates from
the early 20th century.
Kurje Lhakhang
Situated before Jambey Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang consists of three temples.
The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rack face where Guru meditated
in the 8th century. Second temple is built on the site of a cave containing
a rock with the imprint of Guru’s body and is therefore considered
the most holy. The third temple was built in 1990s by Ashi Kesang, the
Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by a 108 chorten wall.
Tamshing Lhakhang
Located opposite Kurje Lhakhang on the other side of the river, this
temple was founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the re-incarnation of
Guru Padsambhava. The monastery has very ancient religious paintings like
1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhistava). The temple was
restored at the end of the 19th century.
Jakar Dzong
Founded by great grand-father of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially
built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after the Shabdrung had
firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as administrative
centre for Bumthang valley, and houses the regional monk body.
Excursions around BUMTHANG
Tangbi Goemba
A walk of half an hour north of Kurje Lhahang leads to this monastery,
founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche of the Kagyupa religious school. The
temple has two sanctuaries and a temple of terrifying deities. The sanctuary
on the ground floor contains statues of past, present and future Buddha
and three clay statues probably dating end of the 15th century. On the
upper floor, the vestibule contains two remarkable paintings of Guru Rinpoche’s
heaven and the Buddha Amitabh’s heaven.
Ngang Lhakhang
A few hours walk from the Tangbi Goemba is the small region of Ngang
Yul (Swan Land) and this temple here is 100 m above the valley floor.
The site was visited by Guru Rinpoche and present temple was built in
the 15th century by Lama Namkha Samdup, a contemporary of Pema Lingpa.
A three days festival is held here each winter with masked dances in honor
of the founder of the temple.
Membetsho
This place is about five minutes walk from Tang valley (in Bumthang).
Pema lInga found several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures here.
A wooden bridge crosses the river and is a good vantage point to look
down into the lake. The importance of this site is indicated by the extensive
array of prayer flags and the small clay offering called ‘tse tsa’
in rock niches.
Ura Valley
Jakar ot Ura is 48 km, about one and a half hour drive. To reach here,
the road climbs to amazingly open countryside, only occasionally running
into forest. Large sheep pastures line the road up to 20 km behind the
southern tip of the Tang valley. The route crosses Ura la pass (3,600m)
with a magnificent view of Mount. Gangkhar Puensum. Villages in Ura have
clustered houses, which is quite unusual in Bhutan. Above Ura village
(3,100m) is a new temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Inaugurated in 1986,
it contains a huge statue of the master and remarkable paintings of the
cycle of his teachings. Since last 25 years Ura has been transformed from
a marginal community to prosperous valley.
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MONGAR
The journey from Bumthang to Mongar is one of the most beautiful in the
Himalayas crossing 4,000m high Thrumshingla pass. Gushing waterfalls,
steep cliffs with even steeper drops, blazing flowers and constantly changing
vegetation combine to make this journey as varied as it is beautiful.
Mongar marks the beginning of Eastern Bhutan. The second largest town
in the sub-tropical east, Mongar like Trashigang further east, is situated
on the side of a hill in the contrasts to other towns of Western Bhutan
which was built on the valley floor.
Places of Interest in MONGAR
Mongar Dzong
It is site of one of Bhutan’s newest Dzong built in 1930s. Yet the
Dzong is built in the same method and traditions of all the other Dzongs;
no drawings and nails have been used. A visit gives visitors an impression
of how traditional Bhutanese architecture has continued to thrive through
the centuries.
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LHUNTSE
Lhuntse is 77 km from Mongar (3 hours drive) and is one of the most isolated
districts in the country. The landscape here is spectacular with stark
cliffs and gorges and dense coniferous forests. The region is notably
famed for its weavers and their special textiles generally considered
to be the best in the country. The Kurtoe region of Lhuntse is also the
ancestral home of royal dynasty.
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TRASHIGANG
In the far east of Bhutan, on the bank of Gamri Chhu river lies Trashigang,
the country’s largest district. Trashigang, once the centre of a
busy trade route with Tibet, is today the junction of east-west highway
with road connecting to Samdrup Jongkhar and then to the Indian States
of Assam. This town is also used as the market place for the semi nomadic
people from Merak and Sakteng whose costumes are unique in Bhutan.
Places of Interest in TRASHIGANG
Trashigang Dzong
Built in 1659, the Dzong serves as the administrative seat for the district
as well as the home of the monk body. The Dzong commands a remarkable
view over the surrounding countryside.
Gom Kora
24 km from Trashigang, the temple of Gom Kora is set on a small alluvial
plateau overlooking the river. Surrounded by rice fields and clumps of
banana tress, it looks like an oasis in an arid landscape. It is one of
the famous places where Guru Rinpoche meditated in order to subdue a demon
who dwelt in a huge black rock.
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TRASHIYANGTSE
Trashiyangtse is a small village with a garden aspect and a lovely place
from where to launch a couples of hours stroll into surrounding countryside.
The Dzong was built in the later 1990s when the new district was created.
A very interest art school is worth the visit. Also Trashiyangtse is famous
for its wooden containers and bowls.
Places of Interest in TRASHIYANGTSE
Chorten Kora
Constructed near the river, it is based on the stupa of Bodhnath in Nepal
and was built in 1740 by Lama Ngawang Loday. During the second month of
lunar calendar there is an interesting celebration here, known as ‘Kora’.
Bomdeling
About one hour walk from Chorten Kora, Bomdeling is the winter resting
place of a flock of black-necked cranes.
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SAMDRUP JONGKHAR
The road from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar was completed in 1960s and
it enables the eastern half of the country to access and benefit from
trade with the south as well as across the Indian border. There is little
to see in this area but it was being used mostly as a convenient exit
town however due to disturbances in adjoining Indian territory, the exit
route has been closed.
Bhutan -The Old Heriatge, Reservation Form
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