SIMANACHARIYA TOURS AND TRAVELS
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(iv) WANGDUE PHODRANG SECTOR:-
Wangdue Phodrang (previously spelled Wangdi Phodrang) is a DZONGkhag (district), of central Bhutan. This is also the name of the DZONG (built in 1638) which dominates the district, and the name of the small market town outside the gates of the DZONG. The name is said to have been given by the Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who was searching for the best location for a DZONG to prevent incursions from the south. At the chosen spot the Shabdrung encountered a boy named Wangdi playing beside the river and hence named the DZONG “Wangdi’s Palace”.Wangduephodrang is Located south of Punakha and the last town before central Bhutan; Wangduephodrang is like an extended village with a few well-provisioned shops. The higher reaches of the Wangduephodrang valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. Wangdue is the second largest district in Bhutan, comprising of 15 vast and diverse geogs. They are Athang, Bjena , Daga, Dangchu, Gangtey, Gasetshog Gom, Gasetshog Wom, Kazhi, Nahi, Nyisho, Phangyul, Phobjikha, Rubeisa, Sephu & Thedtsho. This district is famous for its fine bamboo work, stone carvings, and slate which are mined up a valley a few km. from the town. Wangdue Phodrang is an important gateway to the far flung districts of Eastern Bhutan. The DZONG perched on a ridge overlooking the Punatsangchu and Dangchu rivers was built in 1639. As the name speaks the DZONG of Wangdue held a powerful position during pre-monarchy days. Apart from the great DZONG, its cultural wonders lie in the villages. Detour the villages of Gaselo and Nahee towards the west of the DZONG. Likewise enjoy the tales of shaman culture in the Shaa regions of Wangdue and listen to the ornamental speeches or Lozeys of Shaa and visit the ancestral home of Pema Tshewang Tashi, the knight whose Lozey still remains a favourite amongst the Bhutanese. Wangdue has two of Bhutan’s most well-known attractions – Gangtey Goenpa, the acclaimed 17th century monastery, and the Phobjikha valley, winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes.
Wangduephodrang (Wangdi-fo-drang) is 21 kilometers from Punakha and takes about 45 minutes to reach. The place is on the east-west traverse road beyond Thimpu. This is commonly known as Wangdi among the locals. This small town is situated in the Wangdue valley in the confluence of the rivers Mo Chu and Tang Chu. Wangduephodrang is the last western town of Bhutan before you enter into the central part of Bhutan. Wandue valley is famous for its pastureland for cattle. Tourists usually consider it as a place to relax. Some of the local specialties include fine bamboo works, stone and slate carvings. The literal beauty of the valley in which it is situated is excellent
Wangduephodranghas plenty to offer for its visitors. The main tourist attractions of this sector are:-
Wangduephodrang DZONG
Stretched along the hilltop above the confluence of the Punatsangchhu and Dhangchhu rivers, the imposing Wangdue Phodrang DZONG is the town’s most visible feature. This is the main attraction of the town. The DZONG is situated above the confluence of two rivers Punakha Chu and Tang Chu. The DZONG was built in 1639 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is perched on a ridge that is said to resemble a ‘sleeping elephant’ and looking over the convergence of the Punatsang chhu and the Dang chhu. During pre-monarchy days, the governor of this DZONG played an important role. The DZONG underwent expansion, modifications and restorations under several powerful lords of the time. In 1837, it was destroyed by a fire and later rebuilt. During the reign of the third King of Bhutan, the DZONG was renovated. The visitors are allowed in the eve of Wangduephodrang Tsechu (Tsechu means festival) which is celebrated in autumn.
Gangtey Sanghacholing Goenpa:
It is the largest Nyingma monastery in Bhutan.This monastery was founded in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinley, the grandson of Tertön (treasure revealer) Pema Lingpa. and further extended in later into larger Goenpa by the 2nd reincarnation Tenzin Legpai Dhendup. Today, the monastery is under the headship of the 9th reincarnation of the Gangtey Trulku. Gangtey Goenpa underwent major renovation that lasted for almost eight years and was completed in 2008.
Phobjikha Valley:
In the mountains east of Wangduephodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Phobjikha valley is a glacial valley on the western slopes of the black mountain range bordering the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is the largest and most significant of all wetlands in the Bhutan. Phobjikha Valley is located at an altitude of 2900 meters or 9600 feet, above the sea level takes about two hours of drive from Wangdue Phodrang,. It covers an area of 2,227 hectares approximately. It is an ecologically and biologically diverse area. It is representative of alpine, wetland and temperate eco-systems. Phobjikha has been officially declared as a conservation area due to its importance as the largest wetland habitat for the globally threatened black-necked cranes (grus nigricollis) in the entire kingdom. There is no telephone or electricity. It lies at an average altitude of 3000 m and falls within the Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park. The valley has a stream flowing through thickets of dwarf bamboo, and small settlements of wood cabins and traditional homes. On the surrounding slopes, farmers grow potatoes and turnips, and beyond that are pine forest covered hill sides, interspersed with rhododendron trees. Because of the large flock of black-necked cranes that winters here, it is one of the most important wildlife preserves in the country. In addition to the cranes there are also muntjacs (barking deer), wild boars, sambars, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes in the surrounding hills. The valley is a designated conservation area and borders Black Mountain National Park. It is also one of the nesting grounds of the endangered Black-necked cranes. The birds migrate here from early November each year till the end of March from their northern habitats in Tibet and Siberia. There is a Black-necked cranes information center in the valley which has informative displays on the cranes and the valley environment. Each year in November, a Black-necked crane festival is held to celebrate the arrival of the cranes and to create awareness on the importance of crane conservation. The Nakey Chhu drains the marshy valley, eventually flowing into the lower reaches of the Punak Tsang Chhu. Some people refer to this entire region as Gangte (or Gangtey), after the goemba that sits on a ridge above the valley. The road from Gangte Goemba winds down to the valley floor and passes extensive russet-coloured fields of potatoes that contrast with the rich green of the valley. Gangte potatoes are the region’s primary cash crop and one of Bhutan’s important exports to India. The valley is snowbound during the height of winter and many of the valley’s 4500 residents, including the monks, shift to winter residences in Wangdue Phodrang during December and January, just as the cranes move in to take their place. The local residents, known as Gangteps, speak a dialect called Henke. Pockets of the Bon religion reputedly exist in the Taphu Valley.The valley is an important wildlife centre in Bhutan and is the roosting ground of the endangered blacked necked cranes that fly there from the Tibtean plateau during the winter.
The temple of Sha Radap:
The temple of Sha Radap, the guardian deity of Wangdue Phodrang region is worth paying a visit. The temple located close to the town is houses the image of the deity. Locals pay frequent visits to the temple to seek his blessings and to name their new born child. You can roll the dice at the temple, seek his blessings and your wishes may come true and fulfilled.
Rinchengang Village:-
It is a small clustered village facing the Wangdue DZONG is known for its skill in traditional method of stone masonry. It is about 20 minutes hike uphill with great view of the DZONG, valley and the river.
Villages of Gaselo and Nahee:
Enjoy the delights of the two villages in the west of the province. Take picnic lunches and drive to these villages on day excursions. Village life there is still medieval and farmers are ever happy to see visitors. Fascinate yourself during rice plantation in early summer. Experience the joy and drudgery of farming life. In autumn share the happiness of farmers over a bountiful harvest.
The southern villages of Adha and Rukha:
To experience the grandeur of these villages, you must prepare yourself for a tented night. You could also use a farm house stay and help distribute tourism income to the villages. Summer months are not recommended for cultural groups. The biting midges (sand flies), mosquitoes and leeches are instrument of raw adventure and may not entice the cultural visitors. The highlights are an experience into Adha and Rukha farming life. The farmers will tell tales of mermaids and kings. Let them show you the secrets of making roasted fish.
Legends of Shaa region:
In the East of Wangdue province lays the region of Shaa. The region celebrates Bonko (an animist festival) once in every three years. The farmers here practise animism but call themselves Buddhists. That is the thrill to experience for every visitor. The animists are nature worshippers and it makes great sense for a farmer to be an animist than a Buddhist. Brave yourself and drive on the farm roads to visit these villages or book few nights of camp services.
Wangdue Phodrang Town
Fondly named the matchbox town.Wangdue Phodrang town consists of few permanent buildings the rest are temporary houses made of wood .There are plans to shift the town to another location.
The Chimme LHAKHANG,
Dedicated to the Mad Monk ( Drukpa Kinley ) located on a scenic hillock and visible from the lobesa calley. All Children named in this LHAKHANG have names starting either with "Chhimi" or "Kinley". A brief Walk of about 20 min through scenic paddy feilds and you reach the Monastry.
Langdra Nye (The Red Bull Sacred Site) is near Bai Village.
Guru Rinpoche meditated here and the cave is considered one of Bhutan's most sacred sites. Among the relics on display is a thumb print of Guru Rinpoche embedded in rock. The name of the site is derived from an incident where Guru Rinpoche subdued a charging red bull.
Lobesa Valley
Lobesa Valley is a beautiful valley near Wangdue. The area is especially stunning during the months of June and July when the rice paddies are at their greenest and most fertile.
Wangdue Phodrang (previously spelled Wangdi Phodrang) is a DZONGkhag (district), of central Bhutan. This is also the name of the DZONG (built in 1638) which dominates the district, and the name of the small market town outside the gates of the DZONG. The name is said to have been given by the Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who was searching for the best location for a DZONG to prevent incursions from the south. At the chosen spot the Shabdrung encountered a boy named Wangdi playing beside the river and hence named the DZONG “Wangdi’s Palace”.Wangduephodrang is Located south of Punakha and the last town before central Bhutan; Wangduephodrang is like an extended village with a few well-provisioned shops. The higher reaches of the Wangduephodrang valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. Wangdue is the second largest district in Bhutan, comprising of 15 vast and diverse geogs. They are Athang, Bjena , Daga, Dangchu, Gangtey, Gasetshog Gom, Gasetshog Wom, Kazhi, Nahi, Nyisho, Phangyul, Phobjikha, Rubeisa, Sephu & Thedtsho. This district is famous for its fine bamboo work, stone carvings, and slate which are mined up a valley a few km. from the town. Wangdue Phodrang is an important gateway to the far flung districts of Eastern Bhutan. The DZONG perched on a ridge overlooking the Punatsangchu and Dangchu rivers was built in 1639. As the name speaks the DZONG of Wangdue held a powerful position during pre-monarchy days. Apart from the great DZONG, its cultural wonders lie in the villages. Detour the villages of Gaselo and Nahee towards the west of the DZONG. Likewise enjoy the tales of shaman culture in the Shaa regions of Wangdue and listen to the ornamental speeches or Lozeys of Shaa and visit the ancestral home of Pema Tshewang Tashi, the knight whose Lozey still remains a favourite amongst the Bhutanese. Wangdue has two of Bhutan’s most well-known attractions – Gangtey Goenpa, the acclaimed 17th century monastery, and the Phobjikha valley, winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes.
Wangduephodrang (Wangdi-fo-drang) is 21 kilometers from Punakha and takes about 45 minutes to reach. The place is on the east-west traverse road beyond Thimpu. This is commonly known as Wangdi among the locals. This small town is situated in the Wangdue valley in the confluence of the rivers Mo Chu and Tang Chu. Wangduephodrang is the last western town of Bhutan before you enter into the central part of Bhutan. Wandue valley is famous for its pastureland for cattle. Tourists usually consider it as a place to relax. Some of the local specialties include fine bamboo works, stone and slate carvings. The literal beauty of the valley in which it is situated is excellent
Wangduephodranghas plenty to offer for its visitors. The main tourist attractions of this sector are:-
Wangduephodrang DZONG
Stretched along the hilltop above the confluence of the Punatsangchhu and Dhangchhu rivers, the imposing Wangdue Phodrang DZONG is the town’s most visible feature. This is the main attraction of the town. The DZONG is situated above the confluence of two rivers Punakha Chu and Tang Chu. The DZONG was built in 1639 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is perched on a ridge that is said to resemble a ‘sleeping elephant’ and looking over the convergence of the Punatsang chhu and the Dang chhu. During pre-monarchy days, the governor of this DZONG played an important role. The DZONG underwent expansion, modifications and restorations under several powerful lords of the time. In 1837, it was destroyed by a fire and later rebuilt. During the reign of the third King of Bhutan, the DZONG was renovated. The visitors are allowed in the eve of Wangduephodrang Tsechu (Tsechu means festival) which is celebrated in autumn.
Gangtey Sanghacholing Goenpa:
It is the largest Nyingma monastery in Bhutan.This monastery was founded in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinley, the grandson of Tertön (treasure revealer) Pema Lingpa. and further extended in later into larger Goenpa by the 2nd reincarnation Tenzin Legpai Dhendup. Today, the monastery is under the headship of the 9th reincarnation of the Gangtey Trulku. Gangtey Goenpa underwent major renovation that lasted for almost eight years and was completed in 2008.
Phobjikha Valley:
In the mountains east of Wangduephodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Phobjikha valley is a glacial valley on the western slopes of the black mountain range bordering the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is the largest and most significant of all wetlands in the Bhutan. Phobjikha Valley is located at an altitude of 2900 meters or 9600 feet, above the sea level takes about two hours of drive from Wangdue Phodrang,. It covers an area of 2,227 hectares approximately. It is an ecologically and biologically diverse area. It is representative of alpine, wetland and temperate eco-systems. Phobjikha has been officially declared as a conservation area due to its importance as the largest wetland habitat for the globally threatened black-necked cranes (grus nigricollis) in the entire kingdom. There is no telephone or electricity. It lies at an average altitude of 3000 m and falls within the Jigme Singye Wangchuk National Park. The valley has a stream flowing through thickets of dwarf bamboo, and small settlements of wood cabins and traditional homes. On the surrounding slopes, farmers grow potatoes and turnips, and beyond that are pine forest covered hill sides, interspersed with rhododendron trees. Because of the large flock of black-necked cranes that winters here, it is one of the most important wildlife preserves in the country. In addition to the cranes there are also muntjacs (barking deer), wild boars, sambars, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes in the surrounding hills. The valley is a designated conservation area and borders Black Mountain National Park. It is also one of the nesting grounds of the endangered Black-necked cranes. The birds migrate here from early November each year till the end of March from their northern habitats in Tibet and Siberia. There is a Black-necked cranes information center in the valley which has informative displays on the cranes and the valley environment. Each year in November, a Black-necked crane festival is held to celebrate the arrival of the cranes and to create awareness on the importance of crane conservation. The Nakey Chhu drains the marshy valley, eventually flowing into the lower reaches of the Punak Tsang Chhu. Some people refer to this entire region as Gangte (or Gangtey), after the goemba that sits on a ridge above the valley. The road from Gangte Goemba winds down to the valley floor and passes extensive russet-coloured fields of potatoes that contrast with the rich green of the valley. Gangte potatoes are the region’s primary cash crop and one of Bhutan’s important exports to India. The valley is snowbound during the height of winter and many of the valley’s 4500 residents, including the monks, shift to winter residences in Wangdue Phodrang during December and January, just as the cranes move in to take their place. The local residents, known as Gangteps, speak a dialect called Henke. Pockets of the Bon religion reputedly exist in the Taphu Valley.The valley is an important wildlife centre in Bhutan and is the roosting ground of the endangered blacked necked cranes that fly there from the Tibtean plateau during the winter.
The temple of Sha Radap:
The temple of Sha Radap, the guardian deity of Wangdue Phodrang region is worth paying a visit. The temple located close to the town is houses the image of the deity. Locals pay frequent visits to the temple to seek his blessings and to name their new born child. You can roll the dice at the temple, seek his blessings and your wishes may come true and fulfilled.
Rinchengang Village:-
It is a small clustered village facing the Wangdue DZONG is known for its skill in traditional method of stone masonry. It is about 20 minutes hike uphill with great view of the DZONG, valley and the river.
Villages of Gaselo and Nahee:
Enjoy the delights of the two villages in the west of the province. Take picnic lunches and drive to these villages on day excursions. Village life there is still medieval and farmers are ever happy to see visitors. Fascinate yourself during rice plantation in early summer. Experience the joy and drudgery of farming life. In autumn share the happiness of farmers over a bountiful harvest.
The southern villages of Adha and Rukha:
To experience the grandeur of these villages, you must prepare yourself for a tented night. You could also use a farm house stay and help distribute tourism income to the villages. Summer months are not recommended for cultural groups. The biting midges (sand flies), mosquitoes and leeches are instrument of raw adventure and may not entice the cultural visitors. The highlights are an experience into Adha and Rukha farming life. The farmers will tell tales of mermaids and kings. Let them show you the secrets of making roasted fish.
Legends of Shaa region:
In the East of Wangdue province lays the region of Shaa. The region celebrates Bonko (an animist festival) once in every three years. The farmers here practise animism but call themselves Buddhists. That is the thrill to experience for every visitor. The animists are nature worshippers and it makes great sense for a farmer to be an animist than a Buddhist. Brave yourself and drive on the farm roads to visit these villages or book few nights of camp services.
Wangdue Phodrang Town
Fondly named the matchbox town.Wangdue Phodrang town consists of few permanent buildings the rest are temporary houses made of wood .There are plans to shift the town to another location.
The Chimme LHAKHANG,
Dedicated to the Mad Monk ( Drukpa Kinley ) located on a scenic hillock and visible from the lobesa calley. All Children named in this LHAKHANG have names starting either with "Chhimi" or "Kinley". A brief Walk of about 20 min through scenic paddy feilds and you reach the Monastry.
Langdra Nye (The Red Bull Sacred Site) is near Bai Village.
Guru Rinpoche meditated here and the cave is considered one of Bhutan's most sacred sites. Among the relics on display is a thumb print of Guru Rinpoche embedded in rock. The name of the site is derived from an incident where Guru Rinpoche subdued a charging red bull.
Lobesa Valley
Lobesa Valley is a beautiful valley near Wangdue. The area is especially stunning during the months of June and July when the rice paddies are at their greenest and most fertile.