Trashigang, in eastern Bhutan, is a district rich in culture, history and natural beauty. Green valleys, rugged mountain ridges and rivers like the Gamri and Drangme Chhu shape its landscape and support local life. At the heart of the district is Trashigang Dzong, a 17th-century fortress-monastery that serves as both an administrative center and a spiritual hub. Visitors can also experience the unique lifestyle of the semi-nomadic Merak and Sakteng communities. Nature lovers will enjoy the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Bhutan’s ten protected areas, which preserves rare wildlife and connects to the Khaling Wildlife Sanctuary. Trashigang is also home to Sherubtse College, Bhutan’s first accredited college, a center of higher learning since 1966. With its blend of scenic landscapes, cultural heritage and wildlife, Trashigang offers visitors memorable experiences and insight into eastern Bhutan. This makes it a must-see attractions in Trashigang 2026.
Location: Eastern Bhutan
Elevation: 1,838 meters
Local Languages: Tshangla (Sharchopkha), Brokpa, and Dakpa
Climate: Pleasant summers and cool winters, ideal for travel most of the year
Popular Events: Trashigang Tshechu Festival, Gomphu Kora Tshechu, and Rhododendron Week (Merak & Sakteng)
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Trashigang Dzong, built in 1659 by Chogye Tenzin under the guidance of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, is one of eastern Bhutan’s most important fortresses. Perched above the confluence of the Dangme Chu, it defended against Tibetan invasions and later became the administrative and spiritual hub of the region. Legends recall invaders calling it a “Sky Dzong” for its dramatic setting. With whitewashed walls, golden roofs, and narrow cliffside access, it reflects Bhutanese craftsmanship. Expanded in 1936, the dzong still hosts the annual Tshechu festival. Today, it remains a highlight among attractions in Trashigang 2026.
Just three kilometers from Khaling, the National Handloom Weaving Centre is dedicated to preserving Bhutan’s rich textile traditions and empowering local women. Operated by the National Women’s Association of Bhutan, it showcases handspun cotton, woolen yathra and traditional garments like the kira and gho, all made with natural dyes and looms. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase authentic textiles, supporting both cultural preservation and the local economy.
Perched at 3,500 meters in eastern Bhutan, Merak village offers a rare glimpse into the culture of the Brokpas, a semi-nomadic community that depends on yak herding. With around 35 traditional homes, the villagers maintain unique customs, dress, and traditions closely tied to their high-altitude lifestyle. Surrounded by alpine meadows, streams, and peaks, Merak lies near Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, home to red pandas and snow leopards. Rich in folklore, including legends of the Yeti, and celebrated for its annual festival, Merak is among the top attractions in Trashigang 2026.
Sakteng Village, in eastern Bhutan’s Trashigang District, lies between 1,500 and 4,500 meters and is home to the Brokpas, a semi-nomadic community known for yak herding and traditional weaving. Its isolation has preserved stone houses, colorful attire, and age-old customs that reflect Bhutan’s heritage. Festivals like the Sakteng Tshechu showcase vibrant dances and rituals, keeping traditions alive.
Reaching the village requires a two-hour drive from Trashigang and a two-day trek through forests and highland pastures. This journey rewards travelers with pristine landscapes and unique cultural experiences, making it one of the most remarkable attractions in Trashigang 2026.
Radhi Village, in eastern Bhutan’s Trashigang District, is known as the “rice bowl” of the region, famous for its fertile land and traditional rice cultivation. Terraced fields stretch across the valley, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Bhutanese rural life. Locals grow red rice, sticky rice, vegetables and herbs, while women maintain the art of Yathra weaving, producing colorful handwoven textiles. Rich in Buddhist traditions, Radhi celebrates festivals like Losar and the local Tshechu. Easily accessible from Trashigang, this village combines agriculture, culture and tradition, making it one of the notable attractions in Trashigang 2026.
Located in Khaling, Trashigang, the Khaling Blind School has supported visually impaired children in Bhutan since 1973. Initially established as the Muenselling Institute, it received support from Wonam’s Mission of Sweden and the Christian Blind Mission. Over the years, the school became part of Bhutan’s Department of Education and expanded its mission to serve children with various disabilities.
Students receive academic lessons, braille literacy, mobility training and vocational skills like weaving and massage therapy. With ongoing government and community support, the school continues to empower visually impaired children.
Yonphula Airport, in Trashigang, connects eastern Bhutan to the rest of the country. It improves access to Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and the villages of Merak and Sakteng. Originally built in the 1960s, the airstrip underwent several renovations. It finally reopened in 2017 after safety upgrades and runway improvements.
The airport now handles regular flights by Drukair and other domestic carriers, making travel to eastern Bhutan safer and more reliable. Serving as a key transport hub, Yonphula Airport boosts regional connectivity and tourism, making it a notable attraction in Trashigang 2026.
Located in Trashigang, Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is a key center of Vajrayana Buddhism in eastern Bhutan. Nestled in Rangjung Valley, it attracts pilgrims and visitors interested in Bhutanese Buddhist heritage.
Founded in 1989 by Dungse Garab Dorje Rinpoche, the monastery follows the Dudjom New Treasure Lineage of the Nyingma school. It features traditional Bhutanese architecture, murals, statues, meditation halls, and residential quarters for monks and nuns.
The monastery hosts festivals, rituals, and Tsechu celebrations, supporting spiritual practice and community life. It remains an important stop and popular attraction in Trashigang 2026.
Experience Trashigang as part of our carefully curated 17 Days Eastern Bhutan Tour, a journey that takes you deep into Bhutan’s least-explored regions.
Tour Highlights
Trashigang Dzong and important landmarks
Merak & Sakteng highland villages
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary,
Experience Local festivals
Cultural immersion experiences,
Sightseeing across seven districts: Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, Trongsa, Bumthang, and Mongar
Iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang),
[View 17 Days Eastern Bhutan Tour] Or Need a Customization? Send us your inquiry.
Trashigang is accessible by road from Thimphu, approximately 600 km away, via the East-West Highway. The nearest airport is Yonphula Airport, about an hour’s drive from the town, offering limited domestic flights. Flights from Paro to Yonphula take around 45 minutes. Public buses and private vehicles are also common modes of transport.
The ideal time to visit Trashigang is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. These seasons offer pleasant weather and are suitable for trekking and cultural festivals. Summers can be humid, while winters are cold and dry.
Trashigang is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and natural beauty. Key attractions in Trashigang 2025 include Trashigang Dzong, the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, and the semi-nomadic communities of Merak and Sakteng. The district is also a hub for agriculture, particularly rice cultivation.
Trashigang offers a range of accommodations, including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and homestays. Options are more limited compared to major cities, so it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
The visa fee for Bhutan is USD 40 per person per trip. This fee is applicable to all nationalities, except for citizens of India, who do not require a visa to visit Bhutan.
Bhutan Mystical will book and ticket your flights to and from Paro with Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) or Bhutan Airlines. As your tour operator, we will manage all aspects of your Paro flights, including notifying you of any changes to flight schedules. Since flight timings can change at short notice, we will keep you informed. For more information visit:
Drukair
Drukair Official Website
Bhutan Airlines
Bhutan Airlines Official Website
