Things To Do
in Mongar
Mongar is a historic district located in eastern Bhutan, known for its stunning landscapes and traditional architecture. The district is home to the Mongar Dzong, a fortress monastery built in the 17th century, which serves as a cultural and administrative center. Mongar is a vibrant town with a bustling market where locals gather to buy and sell goods.
Visitors to Mongar can enjoy exploring the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests, as well as learning about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- "Kuzuzangpo la" - Hello
- "Ngatshang" - Thank you
- "Haa" - Yes
- "Mey" - No
- "Tashi Delek" - Good luck or best wishes
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Mongar Dzong, an impressive fortress that showcases beautiful architecture. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take pictures of the stunning landscape surrounding the dzong.
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying authentic Bhutanese dishes. Afterward, explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Relax at your accommodation and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Take some time to reflect on your day or engage in light conversations with locals.
Set off early for a trek to the stunning Bumdeling Valley, known for its picturesque views and biodiversity. The hike will take you through lush forests and quaint villages, providing glimpses into local life.
Arrive in Bumdeling for a packed lunch among the impressive landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring the valley and its unique flora and fauna.
Return to Mongar in the evening. Enjoy a quiet dinner and consider sharing stories with fellow travelers about your trek.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities, including hiking and trekking.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and unique architecture.
- Friendly and hospitable locals who are eager to share their culture.
- Low crime rate and a peaceful environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and experiencing Bhutanese Buddhist practices.
- Limited infrastructure and accessibility compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living due to remote location and importation of goods.
- Limited job opportunities for expatriates and locals alike.
- Variable weather conditions can affect travel plans, especially in monsoon season.
- Regulations around tourism can limit spontaneous travel and experiences.
Best Activities in Mongar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of Mongar through various trekking routes ranging from short hikes to multi-day treks.
Enjoy mountain biking through scenic trails and local villages, experiencing the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region.
Mongar is home to a variety of bird species. Join guided tours for bird watching in the beautiful forests and valleys.
Visit ancient monasteries, dzongs, and local markets to learn about the rich history and culture of Mongar while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Take advantage of the stunning landscapes, colorful festivals, and traditional architecture in Mongar to capture amazing photographs.
Enjoy the great outdoors by camping in designated areas, allowing you to experience the tranquility of nature under the stars.
Places to Visit in Mongar
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, making it an ideal spot for photography.
This impressive fortress showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture and provides beautiful views of the river and farmland below.
Perched on a cliff, this monastery is not only a spiritual site but also offers stunning panoramic views of the landscape.
A popular lookout point that provides expansive views of the Mongar valley and the distant mountains, perfect for capturing natural beauty.
Known for its lush greenery and vibrant fields, this valley is perfect for landscape photography, especially during the blooming seasons.
This temple is set in a picturesque location and offers a unique backdrop for photos, with views of the surrounding hills.
A serene lake that reflects the sky and mountains, this location is ideal for capturing tranquil and mesmerizing landscapes.
Food in Mongar
Mongar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ema Datshi is a spicy dish made of chili peppers and locally produced cheese, typically served with red rice. It's a staple of Bhutanese cuisine and can be found in many local eateries and households in Mongar.
Must-Try!
Phaksha Paa is a popular pork dish cooked with spicy red chilies, radishes, and other accompanying spices. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at various food stalls and traditional restaurants in Mongar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Mongar Weekend Market is a bustling hub of local food vendors, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, snacks, and street food. Visitors can sample authentic Bhutanese snacks like Momos (dumplings) and traditional fried snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to familiarize yourself with and respect local customs and traditions, such as greetings and dress codes. In Mongar, wearing traditional Bhutanese attire, like the gho for men and kira for women, is encouraged during important cultural events and festivals.
When visiting monasteries and temples, dress modestly and remove shoes if required. Speak softly and behave respectfully, as these are significant places for the local community. It is advisable to ask permission before taking photographs.
Engaging in local practices, such as offerings at temples or participating in community events, can show your respect for their culture. Always ask for permission when joining local ceremonies, as this demonstrates genuine interest and respect for their traditions.
Safety
Tipping in Mongar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Mongar, Bhutan. Service charges are generally included in bills at restaurants and hotels, and locals may not expect tips. However, if one receives exceptional service, leaving a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Payment practices in Mongar typically involve the use of cash, as many businesses do not accept credit or debit cards. Local currency, the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), is commonly used. In larger establishments and tourist areas, electronic payments may be accepted, but cash is still preferred.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Mongar. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Blooming flowers and lush greenery make the landscapes vibrant. It's also the time for many local festivals, providing a glimpse into the rich culture of Bhutan.
Summer in Mongar can be rainy, with occasional heavy downpours. The temperatures are warmer, averaging between 15°C and 25°C. While the rain can be a hindrance, the countryside is lush and beautiful, and it's the best time for trekking as the trails are less crowded.
Autumn is another prime season to visit Mongar, characterized by clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The lush scenery from the summer rain persists, and this season hosts several cultural festivals, making it a vibrant time to experience local traditions.
Winter in Mongar is cold, with temperatures dropping between 0°C to 15°C. The landscape can be quite dry, and the views are often crystal clear, making it an excellent season for photography. However, be prepared for cold weather and limited accessibility to some higher-altitude areas.
Mongar at Night
Hiking in Mongar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area near Mongar, offering a variety of trails with views of the valley and lush forests.
A beautiful hiking destination featuring traditional Bhutanese culture and stunning landscapes, situated a bit further but accessible from Mongar.
A lesser-known trail that leads to the Drancing Drakpa Monastery, featuring moderate hikes through serene pine forests.
This remote area offers challenging trails with breathtaking views and is ideal for adventurous hikers.
A popular multi-day hike that connects Kanglung to Trashigang, showcasing diverse flora and scenic vistas.
Aiports
How to reach Mongar by plane.
The only international airport in Bhutan, located in Paro. It serves as the main entry point for international flights to Bhutan.
An airport in India, located approximately 150 km from Mongar, it serves as a major gateway to the northeastern region of India and Bhutan.
Also known as Umroi Airport, located about 200 km from Mongar in India, it serves regional flights and some international connections.
Located in Bangladesh, around 300 km from Mongar, this airport handles domestic flights as well as some international flights.
Located in Kolkata, India, approximately 600 km from Mongar, this is one of the busiest international airports in Eastern India.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Mongar follow Buddhism, which influences the cultural and social practices in the region.
A significant minority in Mongar, practicing Hinduism, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Includes small populations of various ethnic groups and communities, contributing to the cultural mosaic of Mongar.
A sizable demographic of individuals aged 15-24, crucial for the future development and workforce of the region.
The segment of the population aged 65 and above, often focusing on social and healthcare needs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional sport in Bhutan, archery is highly popular in Mongar, often associated with festivals and cultural celebrations.
Football is widely played and followed in Mongar, with local teams and community tournaments being an integral part of the sports culture.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Mongar, with local courts available for casual and competitive play.
A traditional Bhutanese game similar to field hockey, Dakyu is played by many in Mongar during festivals and community gatherings.
Volleyball is popular in communities around Mongar, often played in schools and at local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bhutanese cuisine traditionally includes meat, many restaurants and cafes in Mongar offer vegetarian options such as Kewa Datshi (potatoes and cheese) and Jasha Maru (spicy minced chicken) that can be adapted into vegan dishes upon request.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like Red Rice, Buckwheat pancakes, and locally grown organic vegetables, which are commonly featured in the local cuisine and readily available in Mongar.