Places to visit in Trashigang
Trashigang lies in the far east of Bhutan, and is the country’s largest district. Trashigang town, on the hillside above the Gamri Chu (river), was once the center for a busy trade with Tibet. Today it is the junction of the east-west highway, with road connections to Samdrup Jongkhar and then into the Indian state of Assam. This town is also the principle market place for the semi-nomadic people of Merak and Sakteng, whose way of dress is unique in Bhutan.
Trashigang is located at approximately 8 hours drive from Bumthang which is 246.3 km via Bumthang – Ura Hwy. Travelers can also fly to Trashigang from Paro International Airport to Yongphulla Domestic airport in Trashigang which takes approximately 1 hour.
Trashigang Dzong
Trashigang Dzong is strategically built on a hill overlooking Drangmechu River. The Dzong was constructed in 1659 as a defense fort against invasions from Tibet. The Fortress of the Auspicious Hill as it is also known, is a mark of Bhutanese victory over the invasions and legend has it that invaders retreated after stating that the fortress was built on the sky and was not on ground. Trashigang Dzong is still considered one of most strategically built Fortresses in the country as the Dzong is only accessible from the north through a narrow path. The view from the Dzong is a picture perfect illustration as the magnificent mountains, the buoyant clouds and the calm flowing river all fits into a perfect frame and it has to be a photographer’s dream come true instant.
Gom Kora
Gom Kora Literally translating to Meditation and circumambulation, the temple is as sacred as the name depicts. A temple is perched on a small plateau hovering over the River. The temple is enclosed with meticulously trimmed terraces of rice fields giving the viewers a sense of contentment like a safe haven.
The two storied temple is located at about 22Kms from Trashigang on the road to Tashiyangtse and it holds immense spiritual significance as is said that Guru Rinpoche meditated at the site to subdue a demon and he left his body impressions on the rock. Guru Rinpoche also hid a vase containing water of immortality inside the rock. Devoted pilgrims often see water trickling from the rock which is believed to give its drinker a boon of long life.
The interior of the temple is as extravagant as the exterior, the walls and ceilings see amazing explosions of murals which dates back to its original date of creation period. The temple houses valuable religious relics and statues.
Radhi Village
Renowned for its fine raw-silk textiles the Radhi village is one of the most stunning villages in eastern Bhutan. The endless chains of meticulously manicured terraces with golden rice plants beautify the village of over 200 households. Highly skilled weavers use traditional natural dyes to dye the raw-silk and weave it using a traditional loom. The outcome is authentic raw-silk textile locally known as Bura often worn as Gho and Kira. The setting of the village is truly amazing with is two-storey houses enclosed with rice fields and daunting mountains stand guard hovering over the village.
Merak village
It is a moderate trek through the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary with a maximum elevation of 4100 meters. The sanctuary is home to the endangered species such as Himalayan red fox, red panda and the black bear. The region is popularly known as the valley of Yeti (the abominable snowman). Locals in the area claim the existence of Yeti however it is deemed a legend due to the lack of evidence to substantiate this claim.
The highlight of this trek is the stop at the scenic Merak village. It is home to the semi nomadic indigenous people known as the Brokpas (highlanders). Settled at 3500 meters, the Brokpa’s livelihood is depended on herding Yaks. Some of the Brokpas still lead a nomadic lifestyle moving with their herd of Yaks and bartering to procure their needs. Fermented Yak cheese is a delicacy. Brokpas speak their own dialect and usually stand out with their unique clothing. Men wear a thick red wool coat and women wear a red and white striped dress. Men are further adorned with animal skins.
Mornings in this village are truly magical. A settlement of approximately 30 traditionally built houses remains covered in the mist. Smoke rises through the roof slowly disappearing into the mist. People sit around the fire to keep warm and a hearty breakfast is served with a yak butter salted tea. This experience is a true getaway from the modern world.
