Trongsa Dzong

Trongsa Dzong, meaning “The Dzong on the tip of a Dungkhar (Conch) of the never-changing country of Druk and the everlasting Dharma” was built in 1647 during the time of Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tenpa probably considered the largest and, arguably the most scenic fortress in Bhutan. It is built on a strategic location overlooking the Mangde chhu (river) with a sheer drop to the south that often just disappears into cloud and mist. The rambling assemblage of buildings that comprises the dzong extends down the ridge is connected by a succession of alley-like corridors, wide stone stairs and marvellous paved courtyards. The history reveals us that, when Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk, a descendant of Ngawang Chogyal, visited Bhutan in 1541. He mediated at Yueli in Trongsa where one night he saw a lighted butter lamp, the footprints of a steed and the lhatsho (sacred pond) of the guardian deity. Therefore, considering the place a sacred site, he built a small temple here. Later, Trongsa poenlop Chogyal Minjur Tenpa built the Dzong to serve as a centre for monastic body and administrative function to the society.