Eastern Region
This region popularly called eastern circuit of Bhutan, over the time, has seen only few visitors. It yet to be explored, owes reasons to well-guarded isolation, largely, contributing in retaining its tradition, cultural, natural elements in nascent and pristine form. This journey not only exposes you to the natural beauty of the regions, it’s social, cultural, traditional dimensions and some of the oldest spiritual practice in the country but also unique community of Brokpa in Merak.
In Eastern Bhutan, the cities and towns are generally built on mountain slopes, a notable exception being Samdrup Jongkhar which is in a valley on the Indian border. Lhuentse District is one of Bhutan’s remotest and least developed districts, and the landscape in the north is dominated by the Himalayas. The district is famous for its beautiful and intricate woven cloth.
However, despite this remoteness, the east is surprisingly densely populated. Most of the population live in remote settlements; secreted high above the road or in isolated valleys.
Mongar
Mongar is the fastest-developing dzongkhag in eastern Bhutan. Mongar is situated on a hill top (altitude 1600 m) like most of the prominent towns and villages of Eastern Bhutan. Mongar has at least 3 to 4 different dialects. The population is ethnically diverse. The Khengpa, Kurotep and Tsangla group dwell here in perfect harmony.
Mongar Dzong
Mongar Dzong was built as a substitute to the beautiful Shongar Dzong that was tragically destroyed by a fire in 1929. The third King Jigmye Dorje Wangchuk ordered the construction of the Mongar Dzong and in accordance to the Dzong tradition; no nails or drawings were used in its construction.
This Dzong is located in strategic positions, on a small gently sloping area just above the town.
It has got 2 beautiful entrances which shimmering yellow all around its walls. Each year in the month of November a week long Mongar Tsechu is held here.
Drametse Lhakhang
The Dramtse Lhakhang is one of the oldest structures and the most important monasteries of Eastern Bhutan. It was built on the orders of Ani Cheten Zangmo who was the daughter of Terton Pema Lingpa.
The annual festival which is held every year on the 10th day of Bhutanese calendar called Drametse Ngacham ; calls for hundreds of visitors each year.
Yakang Lhakhang
The youngest son the great Terton Pema Lingpa commissioned the building of the Yagang Lhakhang in 16th century. The Lhakhang is situated in a very small village right next to the town of Mongar.
It has got a good collection of spiritual treasures and other objects of Buddhist significance.