Wangdue-Phodrang is a town and capital dzongkhag thromde of Wangdue Phodrang District in central Bhutan It is located in Thedtsho Gewog.
The town shares its name with the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong built in 1638 that dominates the district. The name is said to have been given by Ngawang Namgyal, the 1st Zhabdrung Rinpoche, who was searching for the best location for a dzong to prevent incursions from the south. At the chosen spot, the Zhabdrung encountered a boy named Wangdi playing beside the river and hence named the dzong “Wangdi’s Palace”.
Wangdi-Phodrang Dzong burnt down in the afternoon of 24 June 2012, supposedly because of a faulty electrical water cooker. However, the dzong was being renovated at the time, so most of the historical relics had already been put into storage and were saved from destruction. Shortly after the fire, more than 1000 Japanese sympathizers donated an equivalent of over US$134,500 to the Wangdue-Phodrang Reconstruction Fund.
Dargay Goemba
The monastery was erected in the spot where Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman first met Ashi Genzo, who was famed for her beauty. Dargay Goempa when it was first constructed, it was a simple Drubdey or meditation centre. Today, it has turned to be one of the important tourist attractions in Wangdue Phodrang.
Upon entering the Goempa, tourists can sense a positive vibe which fills one’s heart with tranquillity. Lam Drukpa Kunley was renowned for his unusual religious practices and due to his unorthodox method of teaching and ribald humour he is still widely considered to be the country’s favourite and most iconic saint.
Adha and Rukha
Located south of Wangdue town, Adha & Rukha villages are an ideal tourist destination for those who wish to get an insight into the lives of Bhutanese farmers. Upon visiting the villages of Adha & Rukha tourists will get a never had before travel experience. The farmers welcome the travellers with a warm heart into their homes and regale the tales of mermaids and ancient kings. Also, the tourism site is perfect for those who are willing to camp out or looking for a homestay with the local families.
Homestay would give the travellers an opportunity to try out scrumptious local delicacies and listen to captivating folk legends. Also, it is believed that people of Adha & Rukha are born with unusually good voices, so those who are lucky enough can also listen to the melodious songs sung by these local people. The people of the villages are extremely friendly and even the best and warmer hosts. A trip to Adha & Rukha will let one create memories with the people here to cherish for a lifetime.
Gaselo & Nahee Village
A perfect spot for picnic lunches, Gaselo and Nahee villages are the two tourism destinations located in the western province of Wandue Phodrang. Tourists who are in Wandue Phodrang for holidays can stretch for day excursions to Gaselo and Nahee to witness a unique village life. The life of the people here is still medieval and farmers are always there to welcome the visitors with warm hearts.
Also, tourists who plan to visit Gaselo and Nahee during the summer season can make the most of the holidays by witnessing the fascinating age-old traditional methods of rice plantation. However, a trip to Gaselo and Nahee during the autumn season will let one experience the purest joy and simplicity of farming life with a bountiful harvest. It is during this time of the year when one can truly experience the Gross National Happiness which is a sight not to be missed.
