Travel Photo of the Day: Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan

Bhutan is all about its Dzongs, monasteries and temples (lakhangs). This one, located in Trongsa, is the largest dzong of Bhutan. Unlike other dzongs of Bhutan, this one is located on a mountain curve and is set amidst dense greenery and a fast mountain stream below. The current king of Bhutan hails from Trongsa, a gorgeous mountain town located in Central Bhutan. Do make sure to visit this place on your next holiday to Bhutan.

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Trongsa: The Heart of Bhutan

It is in the center of Bhutan. It is the city from where the kings of Bhutan come. It has the largest dzong in the country. Unlike most of Western Bhutan, where the cities are in valleys, this city mirrors East Bhutan by setting itself on a mountain slope. It is also one of the wettest areas of Bhutan. This city is Trongsa, the heart of Bhutan and with a lot of importance to its history and royalty.


Normally, this city is not on the tourist’s itinerary, but since it falls on the way to Bumthang, a lot of tourists spend half a day here. But, if you ask me, this town deserves much more time. The best way to begin a tour of Trongsa is by starting at the T Dzong, which has the view tower that gives stunning views of Trongsa and the Trongsa Dzong and where one can see and understand its history in the Trongsa museum.


After understanding the history of Trongsa, the next stop would be Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong of Bhutan and one that needs a lot of effort to explore due to its sheer size. If you feel adventurous, you should try walking down from the dzong to the cantilever bridge where the mountain river flows and then back to the dzong through forests and rice fields. The hike will be tough, but will show you the natural beauty of Trongsa.

Apart from these two highlights, there is nothing much in terms of man made tourist attractions, but I personally found the nature very appealing. If you are for hikes, there are many hikes up hill and down hill from Trongsa that take you to small villages where people live by farming and collecting firewood from the forests. The people of Trongsa are full of smiles and always welcome a good conversation with a traveler and hence interacting with them is a great way to understand local traditions and culture.


Trongsa has a very laid back life and is perfect for those who love long walks, culture, heritage and mountain nature. One should try and stay here at least a couple of days, if not more and explore the heart of Royal Bhutan.

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Hotel Norling: Comfortable Budget Hotel in Trongsa Town

Trongsa in Central Bhutan is a place worth staying for a couple of days as it offers a different view of Bhutan when compared to the typical valleys of the rest of the country. In a way, it is closer to East Bhutan than Central or Western Bhutan as it lies on a mountain rather than in a valley. While I was at Trongsa, I stayed in the town at a place called Hotel Norling. This review of mine is based on this recent experience of staying here for 2 nights and 3 days.

1) Hotel Norling is situated right in the heart of Trongsa town with good access to the restaurants, markets and other basic amenities.

2) It is also located at walking distance from Trongsa Dzong and T Dzong.

3) The rooms are modern, wooden rooms with a room heater, television, attached bathroom with running hot water and other basic, yet important amenities. The best part about these rooms is the beautiful view it offers of the mighty Trongsa Dzong. A cost of a room for one night (Indian rate) is INR/BTN 1200 for double occupancy.

4) The hotel is run by a family and the lady managing the day-to-day operations is extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

5) The hotel does not have any internet connectivity.

6) Hotel Norling has an in-house restaurant that dishes out some great Bhutanese and Indian dishes from 7 AM through 10 PM.

7) The place is also very close to the taxi and bus stands.

The place is ideal for those who look to stay in the heart of town, looking for decent accommodation at a budget price and wish to be in close proximity to the main tourist attractions.

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