CENTRAL BHUTAN

is an exciting destination for all visitors. It includes some of the most significant historical and spiritual sites in the country. The district of Trongsa has always been of great political importance to the leaders of Bhutan, due to its commanding location in the center of the nation, while Bumthang district has some of the most ancient and important temples and monasteries in Bhutan.

Some of the important landmarks in central Bhutan are, Kurje Lhakhang, built in 1652 at the site where the great Buddhist saint Guru Rinpoche meditated. Tamshing Lhakhang, the great religious treasure revealer Terton Pema Lingpa built, dating back to 1501. Mebar Tsho is a sacred river, from which Terton Pema Lingpa discovered treasures hidden by Guru Rinpoche.

The Watchtower of Trongsa Museum, this ancient tower has been made into a museum dedicated to the Wangchuck dynasty and provides visitors with unparalleled insight into Bhutan’s political history. Chendebji Chorten is an interesting and visually striking religious building, with eyes painted towards the four cardinal directions. Legend states that it was constructed to subdue the remains of an evil spirit that manifested as a gigantic serpent.

In addition to the traditional annual spiritual festivals (Tshechus), there are also many newer festivals showcasing the rich traditions of the region, like the annual Nomad’s Festival and the Matsutake Mushroom Festival, in Ura, Bumthang.

Central Bhutan is a region blessed with great natural beauty and there are miles of pristine alpine and sub-tropical broadleaf forests teeming with all manner of flora and fauna. The Thrumshingla National Park is located in this region and is famous for the many rare and endangered birds that inhabit it, including the Rufous necked hornbill, Rufous-throated wren-babbler, Satyr Tragopan, Beautiful nuthatch, Ward’s trogon, and Chestnut-breasted partridge. Visitors may even catch a glimpse of the exotic animals that live in the park, such as the majestic Royal Bengal tiger or the adorable red panda.