MONGAR
At an elevation of 1,600 meters (5,250 feet), Mongar serves as the gateway to eastern Bhutan, marking the commencement of an adventure into the region’s sublime landscapes. The journey from Bumthang to Mongar is nothing short of spectacular, as it traverses over the lofty Thrumsing-la pass, towering at an impressive altitude of 4,000 meters. As you arrive in Mongar, the second largest town in the subtropical east, you’ll be greeted by its picturesque setting, nestled high upon a gently sloping hillside. The town’s elevated position offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both scenic beauty and cultural immersion.
MONGAR DZONG
Despite its relatively recent construction in the 1930s, Mongar Dzong stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Unlike modern buildings, this dzong was erected following age-old methods, devoid of architectural plans or nails, echoing the construction techniques employed in earlier dzongs. A visit to Mongar Dzong offers a fascinating insight into the perpetuation of Bhutanese architectural traditions across the centuries, showcasing the resilience and timeless beauty inherent in the country’s cultural heritage.
AJA NYE
Located at an altitude of more than 3,500 metres above sea level the sacred hidden place of Aja Ney is attributed to Guru Rinpoche. More than 100 pilgrims across the country visit the sacred site annually.
The entire pilgrimage to Aja Ney would take a week to complete. The sacred Aja Nye holds a host of religious sites and symbols including Guru’s foot and body prints, Khando Dowa Zangmo’s footprint, 108 retreat caves of Guru Rinpoche and the footprint of Lam Karma Jamyang who discovered the hidden sacred site among others.
The Aja Ney has also a Menchu. Many people visit to soak in the Menchu as it is believed that it can cure 18 diseases such as tuberculosis, body aches, ulcer and whooping cough among others. We can also see a pair of Jachungs and in the wings of Jachungs it is believed to have 108 butter lamps, 108 lakes and 108 Tsa Tsasand a pair of golden fish.
There is also a stream, which falls from the rocky cliff at Tshekor. It is known as Aai Chhu. The stream falls on a rock basin forming a pool, where it is believed that the Guru had taken bath. This stream came into existence after Guru’s walking stick was implanted in the rock. The stream falls on a rock basin forming a pool, where it is believed the Guru had taken bath. A bath in the pool is believed to purify a person.
Among the several sacred spots, the most popular site is a small cave on the bank of Aja Chhu where Guru Rinpoche meditated for three months. The rock that bears 100 sacred syllables ‘Aa’ is said to have been imprinted in the cave after Guru completed his meditation.
