Brief History of Trashigang Dzong
Trashigang Dzong, a historic fortress in Eastern Bhutan, has played a crucial role in the region’s governance, defense, and religious traditions since its construction in 1659. Strategically built on a hilltop overlooking the Drangme Chhu and Gamri Chhu rivers, the Dzong was established under the prophecy of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and has witnessed key historical events, including the retreat of the Tibetan army and its role in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Today, it continues to serve as an administrative and religious center, hosting the annual Trashigang Tshechu festival, which attracts people from across the region.
Annual Event
The four-day-long Trashigang Tshechu festival is held every year, attended by people from fifteen Gewogs.
2012
Despite its structural challenges, the Dzong continued to host the town’s annual Trashigang Tshechu festival.
2011
The Dzong was on the verge of collapse, prompting debates on whether to relocate or reconstruct it entirely. By this time, most government offices had already been relocated from the Dzong.
1998-99
People from other Dzongkhags moved into several gewogs.
1962
After the Sino-Indian War, Bhutan allowed Indian soldiers to pass through Eastern Bhutan, requiring them to deposit their rifles at the Dzong’s armory, where they remain to this day.
1936
Dzongpon Dopola further expanded the Dzong.
1680-1694
Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye expanded the Dzong.
1659
Trashigang Dzong was built by Trongsa Penlop Minjur Tenpa on a hilltop with steep cliffs on three sides, overlooking the Drangme Chhu and Gamri Chhu rivers. It served as both an administrative headquarters and a monastery for centuries.
Pre-1659
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal prophesied the construction of the Dzong and ordered Penlop of Trongsa, Chhogyal Minjur Tenpa, to suppress local chieftains and build the fortress.
