Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan Attractions | Timings, Entry Fee

Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa Overview

Trongsa Dzong is the largest and one of the most majestic dzongs in Bhutan and is a magnificent structure located on a ridge that overlooks the Mangde Chhu river. To it's South, it drops sharply into clouds and mist. There are two ways to reach this Dzong- Mangdue foot trail, which is a steep climb towards the Eastern gate and the other is a more leisurely walk to the Western entrance.

Trongsa Tsechu is also held on the Dzong grounds. What is interesting to note is that the only trail from Eastern to Western Bhutan runs through Trongsa and used to directly run through the Dzong itself.

A word of caution: Tourists are expected to dress respectably and modestly while visiting temples and other religious institutions. Shoulders must also be covered inside religious establishments. Since shoes are to be removed before entering a religious building, it is advisable to wear socks. Photography may also not be allowed at all places. It is advisable to ask the authorities beforehand.

The architecture of the Trongsa Dzong

Interiors of Trongsa Dzong Bhutan — Inside the Trongsa Dzong (Source)

The Trongsa Dzong is a massive monastery complex perched at an elevation of 7,200 ft. It has several passages, corridors and mazes inside the complex. The Trongsa Dzong consists of as many as 25 temples inside its premises dedicated to various gods and goddess.

The most important temple complex is Maitreya complex which has huge clay statue of Buddha. There is also a museum inside the temple and the interiors are adorned with various artefacts and painting of the ancient era. The most striking feature of the complex is the watchtower which has its own temple and offers the stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas.

History of the Trongsa Dzong

Trongsa Dzong Bhutan — The Trongsa Dzong in Trongsa, Bhutan (Source)

The construction of this huge complex can be traced back to 1543 when the small temple was enacted here by the Drukpa Lama, Nagai Wangchuk. n 1647, his great-grandson Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal began expanding the complex of the small temple to convert it into a dzong. The newly built dzong complex was called Chökhor Rabtentse Dzong or Choetse Dzong.

The fortress complex has gone many renovations since then with additional complex and buildings till 1999. Due to its strategic position in the centre, the dzong complex is the official seat of Wangchuck dynasty who has been the ruling king of Bhutan since 1907. Currently, the dzong complex is a party a religious centre for the Buddhist teaching and partly and administrative centre for the government of Trongsa.