Trongsa

Trongsa, located in central Bhutan, is a district rich in history and cultural significance, dominated by the imposing Trongsa Dzong. Built in 1543 and expanded in 1647, this largest dzong in Bhutan played a crucial role in the country’s unification and served as an important administrative and monastic center.

Adjacent to the dzong is the Ta Dzong watchtower, now a museum that showcases Bhutanese history and the region’s cultural heritage. Trongsa’s stunning landscapes, with valleys and mountains, come alive during the annual Trongsa Tsechu festival, featuring traditional mask dances, music, and religious rituals. Additionally, the Black Mountain Festival, started in 2022, attracts visitors interested in local culture and products, alongside international cycling challenges.

Trongsa is home to diverse cultures, particularly the Monpas, the indigenous people considered Bhutan’s first inhabitants. Living in the buffer zone of the Black Mountain National Park, the Monpas speak Monkha, a distinct Tibeto-Burman dialect, and wear traditional Pagay clothing made from nettle plants.

Its strategic location historically connected eastern and western Bhutan, with the dzong’s courtyard serving as a crucial trade route. The district’s rich history is reflected in its cultural sites, such as the Nabji Lhakhang and the highland abode of Aap Muktse, making Trongsa a key destination for exploring Bhutan’s heritage.