Trashigang

Known as the land of the eastern people (Sharchogpas) and where the expression of happiness is a part of the daily life, Trashigang is the largest district in Bhutan consisting of three sub-districts and fifteen village blocks. Located in the easternmost part of the Kingdom and ranging in altitudes between 600 to 4000 meters, Trashigang is known as the ‘Jewel of the East’. The town is a central hub to connect to other regions of eastern Bhutan, including Trashiyangtse, Khaling, Radi and Phongme. The picturesque Trashigang Town is crafted perfectly on a limited sloping area at the foot of a steep wooded valley with the tiny Mithidang stream channeled through it. In the past, it was known for being a bustling trade center for merchants looking to barter their goods in Tibet. Today, it is the junction of the East-West highway with road connections to Samdrup Jongkhar and the Indian state of Assam. Trashigang town is also the principle market place for the surrounding villages of Radhi, Phongmey, Bikhar, Bidung, Bartsham, Shongphu, Galing and Changmey, along with the semi-nomadic people of Merak and Sakteng. Rangjung, Kanglung and Wamrong are some of the major towns in the district. Trashigang Dzong or ‘The Fortress of the Auspicious Hill’ was built in 1659 to defend against Tibet...