Overview:

Trashi Yangtse Dzong is a large fortification located in eastern Bhutan. built in the 17th century by the famous guru and founder of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it served as both a fortress and a temple. The complex contains monastic and administrative buildings, shrines, and chapels. According to legend, the dzong was founded on a site where a large number of Bhutanese demon-eliminators meditated and prayed. Over the centuries, Trashi Yangtse Dzong evolved into the district's main center for Buddhism and government. The fortification now serves as the administrative headquarters for Trashi Yangtse district. It is also a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

1. Trashi Yangtse Dzong is the oldest Dzong (fortified monastery complex) in Bhutan and is located in the northern part of the Trashi Yangtse District. 2. The Dzong was originally constructed in 1651 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who unified Bhutan by utilizing the system of government called the Drukpa Kagyud (a form of Tibetan Buddhism). 3. It is situated on a hilltop at the confluence of Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers and is considered to be an important historical and cultural monument. 4. The Dzong is the administrative center of Trashi Yangtse district and houses both administrative offices as well as religious institutions. 5. This Dzong is one of the best examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture. It is built from tightly-fitted stone and timber with an intricately decorated exterior. 6. Another prominent feature of Trashi Yangtse Dzong is its large central tower which stands at a height of 60 meters and can be seen from miles away. 7. Visitors to this Dzong can also visit the nearby Gon-Ga, the house of Guru Rinpoche, and the 16th century Ugyen Choling Palace, both of which have intricate carvings and paintings. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Trashi Yangtse Dzong in Bhutan is the administrative center of Trashi Yangtse District, located in the eastern part of the country. It was first built in 1648 as a four-storey building during the reign of Ngawang Namgyal, the first Shabdrung of Bhutan. Its original purpose was to serve as a meditation retreat for monks and as an awe-inspiring symbol of spiritual and temporal power. In 1725, the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal ordered the upgrade of Trashi Yangtse Dzong. This renovation resulted in a larger two-storey building with a fortified perimeter wall. As Bhutan entered the 19th century, the dzong further expanded and was renovated to its current form. The Trashi Yangtse Dzong is considered as one of the most important structures in Bhutan and was the seat of power for numerous important personalities. Besides its administrative role, it has also assumed a spiritual importance, as it is believed to be the home of four powerful guardian deities: Mahakala, Kubera, Sangda and Tshepame. Today, Trashi Yangtse Dzong is still used as an administrative complex and monastery for the people of the Eastern District. It remains a symbol of power and authority in the region and one of the most beautiful monuments in Bhutan. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Trashi Yangtse Dzong is the largest fortress or Dzong in the eastern Bhutan. 2. It was built in 1641 by Pekar Gyatsho, the 37th Druk Desi, to protect the Trashi Yangtse Valley from the Tibetan invaders. 3. It has an impressive network of walls and towers, a large number of temples and a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. 4. The name Trashi Yangtse literally translates to ‘Fortress of the Auspicious Lucky Mountains’. 5. Located in the Trashi Yangtse Valley, the Dzong is said to be the largest in the country with a total area of 52 acres. 6. The two-storey main gate of the Trashi Yangtse Dzong stands tall at the height of 37 feet. 7. The Dzong is home to many Bhutanese monasteries, retreats and pilgrimages. 8. It has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.