Things To Do
in Mongar
Mongar is a scenic town in eastern Bhutan perched along the Trongsa Highway, surrounded by lush hills and terraced fields. It serves as a cultural gateway to the eastern valleys and offers a calm counterpoint to the more visited western towns. The town centers around Mongar Dzong, a fortress that dominates the skyline and anchors daily life.
Visitors come for warm hospitality, traditional markets, and access to nearby villages and trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Bumthang Airport and take a scenic drive to Mongar, enjoying the lush landscapes along the way. Stop by the impressive Chendebji Chorten, a traditional stupa inspired by Nepalese architecture. Settle into your accommodation and unwind from your journey.
Explore the vibrant town of Mongar, absorbing the rich culture and local lifestyle. Visit the Mongar Dzong, a magnificent fortress that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Learn about the history and significance of this architectural gem from local guides.
Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner in a local restaurant, sampling dishes like ema datshi and red rice. Engage with locals and share stories over a warm meal. Take a leisurely stroll around the town, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere under the moonlit sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Mongar. Interact with vendors selling fresh produce, textiles, and handicrafts. Capture vibrant photographs of the colorful stalls and friendly faces.
Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby village of Khoma, renowned for its beautiful handwoven textiles. Participate in a workshop to learn the art of traditional weaving from skilled artisans. Purchase unique souvenirs directly from the craftsmen to take home.
Return to Mongar and attend a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance. Immerse yourself in the joy and color of Bhutanese culture, witnessing beautiful costumes and lively festivals. Conclude your evening with a cozy drink at a local café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner at mid-range restaurant | $8-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚍Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and monasteries
- Gateway to scenic hikes and rural villages
- Friendly, hospitable locals
- Quiet and safe environment
- Limited nightlife and Western-style entertainment
- Remote location with limited wellness facilities
- Transport can be slower and weather-dependent
- Seasonal road conditions can affect travel plans
- "Kuzuzangpo La" - Hello
- "Kadrinchey" - Thank you
- "Tashi Delek" - Good day / Best wishes
- "Nyin zhong delek" - Please / Kindly
Places to Visit in Mongar
Visit one of these nice places.
The fortress perched above the river with dramatic lines and a commanding view over the town.
A high overlook along the highway offering sweeping valley views and golden hour opportunities.
Colorful streets, traditional houses, and daily life scenes ideal for candid photography.
Food in Mongar
Mongar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic chili and cheese stew, often served with red rice and sometimes with added vegetables.
Must-Try!
Spicy pork with chilies; a favorite in eastern Bhutan and often paired with red rice.
A staple accompaniment that rounds out many Bhutanese meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where farmers sell fresh produce, chili paste, buckwheat flour, and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting monasteries and sacred sites, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Ask permission before photographing people or religious spaces; remove hats in temples and avoid pointing feet at statues.
Use both hands for giving or receiving items; greet with a sincere hello and a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Mongar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for guides and drivers; typical amounts are modest and given directly in cash.
Cash (Bhutanese Ngultrum BTN) and Indian Rupee are widely accepted; many hotels accept credit cards, but ATMs are limited outside major towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August bring lush greenery and daily showers. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear; trails may be slippery.
September–November offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for hiking and photography.
December–February can be cool and chilly, especially at night; daytime sun is mild but mornings can be frosty.
March–May brings blooming rhododendrons and a fresh green landscape; expect occasional showers.
Mongar at Night
Hiking in Mongar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route to a high viewpoint along the Mongar highway offering panoramic valley photography.
Short, rewarding hikes from town into nearby farming villages with cultural exchanges.
Airports
How to reach Mongar by plane.
Main international gateway to Bhutan; domestic flights connect Paro to Mongar for travelers seeking to fly between regions.
Local domestic airport serving flights to Paro and regional centers; check seasonal schedules and weather-related restrictions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in eastern Bhutan, speaking Khengkha and related dialects.
Smaller communities and travelers from across Bhutan contribute to the town’s cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national sport of Bhutan, played in villages and at festivals with targets and traditional gear.
Widely played in town and school yards; informal matches commonly happen in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries. Look for dishes like ema datshi with vegetables or request dishes without meat.