26/08/2017
The most impressive Dzong (Fortress) in the country. It is intricately layered into the hillside, in complete harmony with its surroundings. The structure is aesthetically designed and its cleanliness boast a superb sense of proportion and space while finely carved woodwork and elegant paintings suitably embellish it. In the past, it played a pivotal role in the history of the Bhutan. In the nineteenth century it was the center of authority as the Penlop (Governor) controlled all the central and Eastern Bhutan, including the rich fertile southern duars. The Royal family has its antecedents here, the father of the first king, Jigme Namgyal, as the penlop of Trongsa exerted his authority across the country. Before becoming the first King in 1907, Ugyen Wangchuck became the penlop of Trongsa thereby establishing a tradition that continues – the present fifth King was appointed Trongsa penlop in 2004.
