Discovering the Beauty of Tashigang, Bhutan: A Journey to the Eastern Himalayas

Saidpiece
Mar 22, 2023
4 min read

Tashigang is the easternmost district of Bhutan, located on the banks of the Gamri River. It is a beautiful and peaceful place with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. If you are planning to visit Tashigang, there are plenty of things to do and see. In this article, we will explore some of the top activities and attractions in Tashigang.

Visit the Tashigang Dzong

Tashigang Dzong, also known as Trashigang Dzong, is one of the most important and historic buildings in Bhutan. Located in the easternmost district of Bhutan, Tashigang Dzong is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Gamri River. It is one of the largest and most impressive dzongs in Bhutan, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Bhutanese history and architecture.

Tashigang Dzong was built in the 17th century by Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tempa, who was one of the most powerful rulers in Bhutan at the time. The dzong was originally built as a fortress to protect against invasions from Tibet, and it has played an important role in Bhutanese history ever since.

Trek to the Rangshikhar Goenpa

Rangshikhar Goenpa is a beautiful Buddhist monastery located in the district of Tashigang, Bhutan. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Gamri River, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for visitors to Bhutan.

The Rangshikhar Goenpa is believed to have been founded in the 18th century by the famous Bhutanese saint, Lama Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye. According to legend, Lama Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye had a vision of a white horse carrying a religious text up to the top of the hill where the monastery now stands. Inspired by this vision, he decided to build the monastery on the same spot.

The monastery is a beautiful example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, with its white walls and colorful wooden roof. Inside the monastery, you will find a central prayer hall, which is decorated with elaborate murals depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.

The Rangshikhar Goenpa is also home to a community of monks who live and study within the monastery. The monks follow a strict daily routine of meditation, prayer, and study, and visitors are welcome to observe their activities and learn more about their way of life.

One of the most popular activities at the Rangshikhar Goenpa is hiking. Visitors can take a leisurely hike up to the monastery, which takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you will pass through lush forests and small villages, and you may even encounter local wildlife, such as monkeys and birds.

Visit the Radhi Village

Radhi Village is a charming rural village located in the district of Tashigang in Bhutan. It is known for its traditional weaving techniques and beautiful textiles, which have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries.

The village is home to many skilled weavers who continue to practice their craft using traditional methods. The textiles produced in Radhi Village are famous throughout Bhutan for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. The weavers use locally sourced materials such as cotton and silk to create their textiles, which are then sold in markets across the country.

Visitors to Radhi Village can take a tour of the village and learn more about the weaving process. You can observe the weavers at work, see the various stages of production, and even try your hand at weaving your own textile.

Explore the Merak and Sakteng Villages

Merak and Sakteng Villages are two remote villages located in the district of Tashigang, Bhutan. These villages are known for their unique culture, traditional way of life, and stunning natural beauty. They are located in the easternmost part of Bhutan and are situated at an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level.

The Brokpa people, who are the inhabitants of Merak and Sakteng, have a distinct culture and way of life that is different from the rest of Bhutan. They have their own language, dress, and customs, and have managed to preserve their traditions despite the influence of modernization.

The Brokpa people are known for their traditional way of herding yaks, which they have been doing for centuries. They also practice subsistence agriculture, growing crops such as potatoes, barley, and buckwheat. The villages are situated in a pristine natural setting, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests. Visitors to the villages can witness the Brokpa people's traditional way of life and experience the beauty of Bhutan's natural landscape.

One of the most popular activities in Merak and Sakteng is hiking. There are several trails that lead through the villages and into the surrounding mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the valley below. Visitors can also explore the villages themselves, which are filled with traditional Bhutanese homes, decorated with intricate carvings and colorful paintings.

Take a tour to Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary

To sum up, Tashigang is an enchanting district that boasts of a splendid cultural legacy and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Whether you are drawn to history, culture, or the outdoors, Tashigang has something to offer. So, gear up for an exciting adventure and make your way to this hidden treasure in Bhutan, where you are bound to be captivated!