Culture · Gasa, Bhutan
Gasa Dzong and its round watchtowers
Visit the 17th-century Trashi Thongmön Dzong on its ridge above the Mo Chhu, built to defend Bhutan's northern frontier, with round watchtowers and views up towards the snow peaks of Jigme Dorji National Park.
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · CommonsGasa Dzong was built in the 17th century by Tenzin Drukdra, the second Druk Desi, on a meditation site founded by Drubthob Terkhungpa in the 13th century. It was meant as a bulwark against attacks from Tibet, and later expanded by the fourth Desi, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye. The name Trashi Thongmön comes from the local protector deity, renamed by the Zhabdrung.
The dzong's round towers are unusual in Bhutan, where most dzongs are rectangular. Locals say the surrounding landscape forms the image of Tsheringma, goddess of long life, with the dzong on her chest. A fire in January 2008 burned for about 10 hours and badly damaged it; it has since been restored.
Dress modestly and go with your guide. From the dzong's ridge, on a clear day, you look up the Mo Chhu towards the high north. Combine the visit with the hot springs below. The air is cooler than in Punakha; carry a jacket.
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Questions
Before you book
Who built Gasa Dzong?
Tenzin Drukdra, the second Druk Desi, in the 17th century, on a site where Drubthob Terkhungpa had meditated in the 13th century. It guarded the northern route from Tibet and was expanded by the fourth Desi.
Was Gasa Dzong damaged by fire?
Yes. In January 2008 a fire burned for about 10 hours and caused serious damage. The dzong has since been restored and houses district offices and monks.
How far is Gasa Dzong from the hot springs?
A short drive and a steep walk; both lie on the Mo Chhu valley slope, with the springs about 700 m lower. Most visitors do both in one day.