Mongar Travel Guide
Nestled in the eastern part of Bhutan, Mongar is a picturesque town perched on a high ridge, surrounded by lush green hills and pristine valleys. Known for its traditional Bhutanese charm and breathtaking landscapes, Mongar is a gateway to the lesser-explored eastern region of the country. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, spiritual experiences, and serene natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility and authentic Bhutanese culture.
How to get to Mongar?
Both road and flight options can take you to Mongar. Starting from Thimphu, a scenic 10–11-hour road trip along the East-West Highway takes you through charming landscapes and towns like Trongsa and Bumthang. Alternatively, you can take a quicker flight from Paro Airport to Bathpalathang Airport, followed by a5-6 hours drive from Bumthang to Mongar.
Best Time to Visit Mongar
The ideal time to visit Mongar is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak.
Top attraction in Mongar
Mongar Dzong
Mongar is considered the main trade and travel hub of Eastern Bhutan and most travellers and merchants active in the east pass through here often spending the night at one of the local hotels.The dzong looms large over Mongar’s skyline representing Bhutan’s immense power. This architectural marvel blends a fortress with a monastery reflecting the socio-religious beauty that makes this nation unique. It’s impressive from the outside with its whitewashed walls and wooden carvings. It is like a maze of courtyards, temples and offices from inside. The interior is adorned with intricate thangkas, murals and sculptures that depict Buddhist mythology and historical events. A visit to Mongar Dzong is not just about seeing it but returning to when Bhutan had a rich history and cultural heritage.
Yagang Lhakhang-A spiritual Haven
The Yagang Lhakhang is a Buddhist temple, located in a village on the outskirts of Mongar in eastern Bhutan. It was built in the 16th century by Sangdag, the youngest son of Pema Lingpa, a famous Terton. The temple is known for its collection of religious treasures, masks, musical instruments, armour, ancient weapons, and xylograph blocks used for printing prayer flags and texts. The religious treasures include a statue of Gautama Buddha discovered by Pema Lingpa in Mebartsho, Bumthang and a kila made by Pema Lingpa himself. At this Lhakhang an annual three-day tshechu or ritual and Cham dance festival is held on the 8th, 9th and 10th of the fifth month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar. This festival is one of the oldest held in eastern Bhutan.
Ruins of Zhongkhar Dzong
Zhongar Dzong is a large medieval ruin overlooking the valley between Lingmithang Town and Thidangbi Village in theMongar District. Constructed in the 17th century from white stone mined from the nearby Kuri Chhu river, it once stretched over 4 acres of land and was one of the largest fortresses in the country. Because of its size and construction material, the dzong came to be known as Zhongkar “white bowl” (zhong-bowl, kar-white).In the late 18th century, the dzong was damaged by a disastrous fire, and then further destroyed by a large earthquake.
Kurizampa Monastery
Escape the bustling world and find inner peace at Kurizampa Monastery, a serene sanctuary nestled in the tranquil mountains of Eastern Bhutan. This sacred retreat offers a respite for those seeking spiritual solace and tranquility.Engage in guided meditation sessions led by experienced monks, allowing your mind to quieten and your spirit to rejuvenate.Explore the monastery’s ornate halls adorned with intricate murals and sacred relics, and gain insights into Bhutanese Buddhism through enlightening conversations with resident monks.Surrounded by lush nature and breathtaking views, Kurizampa Monastery provides an ideal setting for introspection and self-discovery.
Ajay Ney- A pilgrimage to Sacred Caves
Aja Ney is a holy place, which is imbued with deep spiritual meaning. The most sacred are the 100 imprints of the sacred syllable “Aa” on the rock-cave left by Guru Rinpoche besides numerous other sacred sites. The Nye also has a medicinal spring which the locals believe can cure 18 diseases besides a nearby pool called Awa Chhu (now known as Uma Chuu). It is said to remove defilements in a person. It takes a minimum of three days to complete a pilgrimage to all the sacred sites.It attracts pilgrims and seekers from all over the world. Located amidst awe-inspiring landscapes, this sacred spot is thought to be a path towards enlightenment. The journey to Aja Ney rivals the destination itself because you go through forests and discover unseen waterfalls. Nestled inside these sacred caves are natural formations, prayer flags and an ambience of devotion and tranquillity. Many visitors often undergo feelings of peace and unity with nature during their stay at Aja Ney.
Things to do in Mongar
Explore local Villages
Discover the traditional way of life in Bhutan by visiting the nearby villages. Interact with the locals, learn about their customs, and witness traditional weaving techniques.
Experience Local Festivals
Attend traditional Bhutanese celebrations like the Mongar Tshechu, renowned for its vibrant mask dances, spiritual rituals, and captivating cultural performances that reflect Bhutan’s rich heritage.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Taste authentic Bhutanese dishes such as Ema Datshi (chili cheese), red rice, and buckwheat pancakes. Don’t miss trying the locally brewed Ara (rice wine).
Hike Through Scenic Trails
Mongar is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of terraced fields, dense forests, and winding rivers. The Thrimshingla National Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Accommodation at Mongar
Mongar, being a small yet charming town, offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from basic guesthouses to mid-range hotels. While the town doesn’t have large-scale luxury hotels, it provides comfortable stays for travellers looking to explore the region. Here’s a list of some popular accommodations in Mongar:
Weather and Temperature in Mongar
Mongar experiences a temperate climate, with a mix of subtropical and alpine weather due to its elevation and geography. The town is situated at around 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) above sea level, and its climate can vary between warm summers and chilly winters. Here’s an overview of the weather and temperature throughout the year:
Spring (March to May)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Nights are cooler, dropping to around 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F).
- Weather: Spring is a pleasant time to visit Mongar with mild weather and blooming flowers. Occasional rainfall may occur, especially in April and May, but it’s generally not too heavy.
- Best for: Outdoor activities, festivals, and cultural exploration.
Summer (June to August)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures around 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F).
- Weather: The summer months can be quite warm and humid, with monsoon rains occurring from June to August. Expect heavy rainfall, which might affect travel conditions and outdoor activities.
- Best for: A quieter, less touristy time to visit, but be prepared for occasional rain disruptions.
Autumn (September to November)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with cooler nights at 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F).
- Weather: Autumn is one of the best times to visit Mongar, as the weather is pleasant and clear. The rainfall decreases, and the skies are typically sunny and crisp. The landscape is lush and vibrant from the monsoon rains.
- Best for: Sightseeing, hiking, and cultural events like the Tshechu festival.
Winter (December to February)
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and it can get much colder at night, with temperatures dipping to 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F).
- Weather: Winter is generally dry and cool, with clear skies and crisp air. While it’s rarely extremely cold, it can get chilly, especially in the evenings.
- Best for: A peaceful visit with fewer tourists, but warm clothing is essential.
