A Greay Langur welcomed us on the road to Central Bhutan.
-
We traveled further east than most travelers venture in Bhutan with the objective of Jakar and the Tong Valley to see Ogyen Choling Palace, another historic estate in the same genera as Gangtey Palace in Paro.
Central Bhutan
Trongsa Dzong
We entered over a half dozen Dzongs, regional fortresses that today house the regional government offices and leading monastic community for the area. An entire coffee table book was recently published about the over two dozen Dzongs of Bhutan.
The Trongsa Dzong was interesting as it commanded an incredible vantage point. Above it is a watch tower complex currently under renovation by the Australians. It will be converted into a museum, much like the other in Paro. Its subject will be the Royalty of Bhutan.
The state Cyprus tree commands every Dzong
Inside courtyard facade
A working monastic center
Incredible wall paints and entry prayer wheels are features in every Dzong
Government office mezzanine
Multiple interior courtyards fill the interiors - some constructed for specific dances and ceremonial events.
A small chortens overlooks the river valley far below.
Watch tower overlook the Dzong
East West Road
The single East West Road has not a single straight section. Speeds never exceed 40 km. Every truck driver is so considerate they allow others to easily pass with a toot of the horn. The dramatic landscape and scenery occupies the traveller for hours.
Chendebji Chorten
Three distinct forms of Chortens exist in Bhutan, essentially representing styles of the confluence of its Buddhist culture: Bhutan, Tibetan and Nepalese. This chorten is comprises all three styles and is even located at the confluence of two rivers outside the village Chendebji. It is a lovely picnic spot to rest between Trongsa and Jakar.
Mendon wall chorten
Nepalese style chorten
The Himalayan vista from hill station farm
Slide Show
