Things To Do
in Trashigang
Trashigang is a beautiful district located in eastern Bhutan, known for its stunning landscapes and traditional Bhutanese architecture. The district is famous for its historical sites such as Trashigang Dzong, a majestic fortress overlooking the valley. Trashigang is also a hub for traditional Bhutanese crafts and markets, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The district is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers, with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views.
- "Kuzuzangpo la" - Hello
- "Ngatshang" - Thank you
- "Haa" - Yes
- "Mey" - No
- "Tashi Delek" - Good luck or best wishes
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Trashigang Dzong, a stunning fortress that offers panoramic views. Take your time to explore the intricate architecture and historical significance of the site.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional Bhutanese cuisine. Afterward, take a stroll through the town and visit local shops for handicrafts and textiles.
Wind down your day at a cozy café with views of the Ta-Dzong river. Reflect on your adventures over a cup of butter tea.
Visit a local monastery to experience morning prayers and meditation. This is a peaceful way to immerse yourself in the spiritual culture of Bhutan.
Join a cultural workshop where you can learn about traditional crafts like weaving or painting. Engaging with local artisans offers a great hands-on experience.
Dine at a restaurant featuring traditional music and dance performances. This is a perfect way to enjoy authentic flavors and local entertainment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional Bhutanese architecture.
- Less touristy compared to other areas in Bhutan, providing a more authentic experience.
- Opportunities for trekking and exploring remote areas.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Accessibility can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads.
- Fewer dining and entertainment options.
- Language barriers, as English may not be spoken widely in rural areas.
- Weather can be unpredictable, impacting travel plans.
Best Activities in Trashigang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of Trashigang by embarking on treks that take you through lush forests, scenic valleys, and traditional villages.
Enjoy fishing in the crystal-clear rivers and streams that abound in the region, particularly in the Kulong Chhu and Drangme Chhu rivers.
Set up camp in beautiful locations around Trashigang to fully immerse yourself in nature and experience camping under the starry skies.
Engage with the rich culture of Bhutan by visiting local monasteries, Dzongs, and participating in traditional festivals that showcase the vibrant heritage.
Observe the diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the black-necked crane, by visiting nearby national parks and protected areas.
Take a biking tour through the picturesque landscapes, enjoying the fresh mountain air and stunning vistas along well-maintained trails.
Experience the thrill of rafting on the rivers around Trashigang, which offer exciting rapids and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Places to Visit in Trashigang
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning fortress that offers panoramic views of the Trashigang valley and the Drangme Chhu river. The architectural beauty combined with the surrounding landscape makes it a prime photo spot.
A mountain pass located near Trashigang providing breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas. It's an ideal location for landscape photography and capturing the essence of Bhutanese nature.
Perched on a hill, this monastery offers serene surroundings and great views of the Trashigang area. The colorful architecture and tranquil environment provide excellent opportunities for photography.
A hidden gem in the Trashigang region. The beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery offers perfect moments for capturing the beauty of nature.
A sacred site combined with stunning views of the valley. The unique architecture and the backdrop of mountains make it an attractive site for photographs.
Known for its traditional houses and stunning landscapes, Merak Village provides opportunities to capture daily life and cultural heritage set against an idyllic backdrop.
The sanctuary is ideal for capturing Bhutan's diverse flora and fauna along with stunning Himalayan landscapes. Photographers can also catch glimpses of the traditional semi-nomadic lifestyle of the people living here.
Food in Trashigang
Trashigang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Bhutanese dish made with spicy chilies and a cheese sauce, typically served with red rice. It's widely available across local eateries and can be found at Druk Zhongar Hotel and many other restaurants in Trashigang.
Must-Try!
This is a delightful pork dish sautéed with spicy red chilies and radishes. It's a staple in Bhutanese cuisine and can be savored at Namsay Restaurant and other authentic eateries in Trashigang.
A type of Buckwheat dumplings filled with turnip greens, spinach, and cheese, offering a unique and delectable taste. You can try this dish at Zangthopelri Hotel Restaurant and other local food joints.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling weekend market is a must-visit for a wide array of local produce, snacks, and street food. It's the perfect place to sample authentic Bhutanese street food like momos (dumplings), roasted corn, and various fruit-based delicacies.
This market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse street food options. Visitors can savor local snacks such as khabsey (fried biscuits) and goen hogay (Bhutanese salad) while exploring the colorful stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Trashigang, traditional attire is highly valued. Wearing modest and culturally appropriate clothing is expected, especially when visiting temples or local homes. Men should consider wearing a gho, and women should opt for a kira.
Buddhism plays a significant role in the daily lives of the people in Trashigang. Visitors should be respectful when attending religious sites, including not taking photos in certain areas, and observing silence during prayers or ceremonies.
A traditional greeting in Bhutan is 'Kuzuzangpo la', which means 'Hello' or 'Welcome'. Using this phrase when meeting locals shows respect and appreciation for their culture, fostering a positive interaction.
Safety
Tipping in Trashigang
Ensure a smooth experience
In Trashigang, Bhutan, tipping is not a customary practice as it is in many Western countries. Service workers, including those in hotels and restaurants, generally do not expect tips, as salaries are often considered sufficient. However, travelers may choose to leave small tips for exceptional service or guide services, particularly in the context of tourism. It's more about appreciation than obligation.
Payment in Trashigang primarily takes place in the local currency, Ngultrum (Nu). Cash transactions are common, especially in smaller shops and local markets. While larger establishments may accept credit or debit cards, it is advisable for visitors to carry cash for ease of transactions. In recent years, digital payment methods have started gaining popularity, but their acceptance can be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Trashigang, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This season offers clear skies, making it perfect for sightseeing and trekking. The cultural festivals, like the Trashigang Tsechu, typically occur during this time, providing a rich experience of local traditions.
Summer brings warmer temperatures but also heavy rainfall. While the landscapes become lush and green, the weather can hinder outdoor activities. Travelers should be prepared for occasional landslides and delays in transportation. However, this is the time for vibrant monsoon scenery and fewer tourists.
Autumn is another ideal season for visiting Trashigang, with cooler temperatures and clear mountain views. The harvest season enhances the beauty of the landscape, and outdoor activities like trekking are highly enjoyable. Cultural events and festivals are prominent during this time, making it a vibrant period to experience local culture.
Winter in Trashigang is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. While the scenery is stunning, with snow-capped mountains, it may not be suitable for all travelers due to the chilly weather. However, this is a great time for those seeking solitude and a peaceful retreat, as tourist crowds are minimal.
Trashigang at Night
Hiking in Trashigang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trek that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, popular among hikers looking for a relatively easy and picturesque route.
An adventurous trek that takes you through dense forests and remote villages, showcasing the traditional lifestyle of the local communities.
A challenging trek that leads to high mountain passes, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the opportunity to see various wildlife.
A moderate trek that combines cultural experiences with natural beauty, leading through several ancient monasteries and picturesque landscapes.
A gentle trail along the Trashigang River, ideal for leisurely hikes and bird watching, with beautiful views of the river and surrounding areas.
Aiports
How to reach Trashigang by plane.
The only international airport in Bhutan, located in Paro, approximately 180 km (112 miles) from Trashigang.
An international airport located in Bagdogra, India, which is around 100 km (62 miles) from the Bhutan-India border.
An international airport in Kolkata, India, located approximately 600 km (373 miles) from Trashigang.
An international airport in Guwahati, India, situated approximately 400 km (249 miles) from Trashigang.
An international airport located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, around 650 km (404 miles) from Trashigang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Trashigang, comprising various sub-groups such as Ngalops and Sharchops.
A small indigenous ethnic group, primarily residing in the eastern regions of Bhutan, including Trashigang.
Primarily of Nepali descent, this group has a significant presence in southern Bhutan, including parts of Trashigang.
A Himalayan ethnic group that occasionally resides in the area, known for their mountaineering and trekking expertise.
Includes various minority groups and immigrants from different regions, contributing to the cultural diversity of Trashigang.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and is highly popular in Trashigang. The sport involves traditional methods of shooting arrows at a target and is often played during festivals and community gatherings.
Football is one of the most popular team sports in Trashigang, with many local clubs and schools participating in tournaments and leagues. The sport brings together communities and encourages teamwork.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Trashigang. Several schools and local teams engage in regular play, contributing to the sport's growth in the region.
Dha, or traditional stick fighting, is practiced in Trashigang, showcasing local martial arts skills. It is often part of cultural events and competitions.
Table tennis is a popular indoor sport in Trashigang, enjoyed by many as a recreational activity and competitive sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trashigang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bhutanese cuisine prominently features meat, vegetarian travelers can savor dishes like Kewa Datshi (potatoes in cheese sauce), Shakam Paa (dried beef replaced with mushrooms), and various vegetable curries available at most local eateries.
Finding strictly vegan options may require communicating dietary restrictions clearly. However, some eateries offer dishes like Shakam Ema Datshi (chilies in cheese sauce without meat) and vegetable momos, and are accommodating when asked to customize meals as per vegan preferences.
Bhutanese cuisine features a variety of rice-based dishes, making it relatively easier to find gluten-free options. Visitors with gluten intolerance can relish dishes like red rice, buckwheat dumplings (Hoentoe), and rice-based momos available at many restaurants and food stalls.