Trongsa
Midway between Haa in the far west and Trashigang in the Far East stands the striking Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s Royal Family. Both the first and second kings of Bhutan ruled the country form this ancient seat. The Crown Prince of Bhutan traditionally becomes Penlop or Governor of Trongsa before being crowned King. All five kings of Bhutan held post of Trongsa Penlop prior to being crowned the king. Trongsa meaning ‘the new village’ housed only a temple until 17th century. The place gained prominence after a Dzong was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Trongsa Dzong was built in 1648 and is a massive structure with many levels that slopes down the contour of the hill. Because of its highly strategic position on the only connecting route between the eastern and western sectors (the trail actually running through the dzong), the Trongsa Penlop was able to control the whole of the eastern region effectively for many centuries.
Places of interest:
- Trongsa Dzong.
- Ta Dzong: the watch tower which once guarded the Dzong from internal rebellion, stands impressively above the Dzong, and provides a visitor with more insight into the historical significance of Trongsa in Bhutan’s history.
- Chendebji Chorten.