Dagana, located in the southwestern Bhutan, is known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, emerging as a destination waiting to be discovered. The Dagana Dzong, also known as Daga Trashiyangtse Dzong, a testament to Bhutan’s rich history and the enduring legacy of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, was built in the year 1651 (17th century). It houses some unique and sacred objects such as a giant buffalo horn, a self-arisen stone conch, and a spoken Jowo statue.
The district is known for its many sacred sites, each of which has a unique history and cultural significance. Another enchanting charm of Dagana is the cultural pattern, shaped by the multi-ethnic society, reflecting a vibrant tapestry of traditions, festivals, and customs. Including the Annual Tshechu, a vibrant celebration of local culture in which traditional dances, music, and religious rituals are featured. Additionally, the district is known for its rich and intact biodiversity offering a variety of experiences of ecotourism.
SOME OF THE TOP ATTRACTIONS ARE :
DAGA DZONG
Standing proudly on top of the verdant hill in the country of happiness, Daga Dzong, or Daga Trashiyangtse Dzong in Dagana District is one of the most important tourist attractions in Bhutan. The dzong was constructed in the year 1651 and is seen as a significant heritage place because of its glorious history. Today, after so many years, it is counted amongst the must-visit places in Bhutan because of its magnificent architecture and picturesque location.
The story of the Daga Dzong goes back to the mid 17th century when Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel conquered most of western Bhutan and had his eyes on the rest of the country. He deputized Dronyer Druk Namgyel, brought the area under Drukpa rule and built Daga Dzong in order to protect the country from invading armies. Later, it was declared as the office of the cabinet minister as per Desi (temporal ruler) system of government which was introduced by the Zhabdrung.
At present, the Daga Dzong of marvelous history is the headquarters for the Dagana district administration and also the house of the clergy. Moreover, with the cultural diversity in the region, the place has been recognized as an outstanding tourist place where people travel from across the world to witness the vibrant festivity and traditions.
In a nutshell, Daga Dzong, surrounded by hardy trees, gigantic mountains, and spellbinding valleys, is favoured as a majestic location to be visited in Bhutan. So, visit this place and soak into the indescribable beauty encircling it.
DO KEPAI GOENTHOE
Great travellers in the world are left astonished when they come across various hidden gems spread over Bhutan, the country of happiness. Visitors are stunned by the majestic beauty and Do Kepai Geonthoe, is one such magnificent place in Dagana District which is resting amidst the peaceful and serene environment of Bhutan since ages.
Apart from the awe-inspiring picturesque location, the great belief of the locals attracts uncountable tourists every year to this wonderful location. Do Kepai Goenthoe (or the rock of ancient steps) is a monolith made up of a few steps and each step sinks into the ground every era. Therefore, it is believed by the locals that when every step of the rock disappears into the ground, the epoch will come to the end. Currently, about five steps are visible in the place which are being worshiped as a sacred point by locals and, hence, making it one of the must-visit places in Dagana district of Bhutan. With such powerful faith, Bhutanese have taken the natural wonders to the next level. So, visit this wonderful place and witness the magic of these ancient steps yourself.
DO-RANGTHAN
Bhutan cannot be counted amongst ordinary tourist places because there are unnumbered places that offer visitors with indelible experiences. Moreover, it is not only the mesmerizing scenery that allows tourists to soak into it but also the wonders of nature and culture of Bhutan that astonishes people in an unexpected manner. Do Rangthan is one such place. The hidden gem in the Dagana district located in the southern part of the country amazes its visitors with its matchless beauty and glorious story.
After a small walk of half an hour from Do Kepai Geonthoe, there is a marvelous point known as Do Rangthan or Stone Mill where tourists pay their visit and witness the unusual traditions of the place. The story of this celebrated place goes back to the time when a Guru defeated a local demon who used to disturb the visitors by crushing them and squeezing their blood. Later, this place was worshipped by people in the memories of the Guru.
Resting between the gigantic snow-capped mountains and verdant land, Do Rangthan is shaped like a millstone which is why it is also known as the Stone Mill. Moreover, because of the outstanding location and cultural belief of the Bhutanese, Do Rangthan is undoubtedly recognized as one of the must-visit traveling destinations in Bhutan.
DO PATA CHAPSA
Bhutan is renowned across the world for its respect towards religion and glorious history. Moreover, there are a plethora of places in the country that represent the celebrated history of the ancient times and one such place is Do Pata Chapsa which lies in the lush greenery of Dagan district in south Bhutan.
Do Pata Chapsa is a wonderful place where not many tourists pay their visits. However, every traveller must see the rock resting in the magnificent surroundings of verdant hills. This rock is not any ordinary part of the hill as what makes it special is the imprint of a sword. According to the locals, this sword mark belongs to the great warrior Ngagey who was also the part of the court of Tsega King. He left the mark of his sword while he hit the rock forcefully ages ago. One can reach Do Pata Chapsa after a 2 hour walk from the Daga Dzong. The serenity of the environment encircling the place is unmatchable.
DUNGCHEN MENCHU
There may be uncountable scenic locations in Bhutan but Dungchen Menchu which is situated in the Dagana valley has no comparison. This attraction in Bhutan is renowned for its lush green forest spread in the 80% of the land.
Dungchen Menchu, a stone bath spring, is one of the less-visited but must-visit places in Bhutan which is encircled in the greenery of the mountains. This place is a perfect spot for people who are fighting against skin diseases as the spring is believed to have medicated properties. The medicinal spring is made up of solid granite from which a trumpet-shaped like dung can be discovered.
This magical place is located below the Dzongkhag guest house. After about a 15-minute stroll through the beautiful trails, one can reach Dungchen Menchu and enjoy the uniqueness of the place while unwinding themselves in the spring water.
