Trashiyangtse Dzong: A Spiritual and Historical Landmark

Perched atop a steep ridge at the confluence of the Dongdi Chu and Kholong Chu rivers, Trashiyangtse Dzong is one of the most revered and historically significant dzongs in eastern Bhutan. Formerly known as Dongdi Dzong, its origins trace back to the 9th century, when it was built by Gongkar Gyalpo, the grandson of Lhasey Tsangma, a Tibetan prince. Over the centuries, the dzong has been reconstructed and renovated, preserving its legacy as a center of spirituality, governance, and cultural heritage.

Historical and Spiritual Significance

The dzong’s transformation into its present form is credited to Terton Pema Lingpa, the renowned treasure revealer of the 15th century. He rebuilt the dzong on the ruins of Dongdi Dzong and gave it the name Trashiyangtse, meaning “auspicious land of sufficient space on steep terrain.” Over time, the dzong has served as a religious stronghold, a seat of governance, and a symbol of Bhutanese resilience.

Among its many sacred relics, the dzong houses the revered Chuchizhe statue (Avalokiteshvara with 11 faces), which is enshrined on the top floor. According to legend, this statue was discovered by an old woman near the dzong. When news of its existence spread to Bumthang, a local chieftain took it there, but an outbreak of sickness and bad omens forced him to return it to Trashiyangtse, as advised by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.

Additionally, the dzong is home to 100 volumes of the sacred Kanjur scriptures, with the first page of each volume printed in gold. These scriptures were historically transferred to Trashiyangtse from Gephu Lhakhang as compensation in a conflict between the chieftains of Yangtse Byekhar and Udzorong. To this day, these holy texts are recited at least once a year.

Another sacred artifact within the dzong is the Terphur (treasure dagger) and the Dam Lung (subduing boulder), both linked to Terton Pema Lingpa. Oral history states that a demon in Dongdi Chu was causing harm to the people, and the Terton used the boulder to subdue the evil force. This very boulder can still be seen at the main entrance of the dzong.

Modern Renovation and Consecration (2005)

In an effort to preserve its spiritual and historical importance, Trashiyangtse Dzong underwent a major renovation from 2001 to 2005, funded by the Bhutanese government at a cost of Nu. 10 million. As part of this restoration, the following structures were built:

• A new Kuenra (main prayer hall) adorned with sacred images and scriptures
• A Neypoi Phodrang (shrine for the local deity)
• Two Shabkors (monks’ living quarters) with 12 rooms each
• A courtyard, pavement, drainage system, and approach road

On March 23 and 24, 2005, the dzong was sanctified through a grand Rabney (consecration) ceremony, led by His Holiness the Je Khenpo and a group of monks. The ceremony included:

• Tagoen (preparatory rites)
• Ngezhi Sungchog (blessings of the four directions)
• Zhewai Jinseg (fire offering)
• Tashi Tendrel (auspicious circumambulation) performed by dzongkhag officials, representatives of the dratshang, and the people of Trashiyangtse
• The event concluded with the Tashi Moenlam (aspiration prayers)

Conclusion

Today, Trashiyangtse Dzong stands as a timeless monument of Bhutanese heritage, embodying centuries of spiritual traditions, historical events, and cultural resilience. From its origins as Dongdi Dzong to its transformation under Terton Pema Lingpa, and its modern renovation in 2005, the dzong continues to serve as a center of religious and administrative significance in eastern Bhutan. With its sacred relics, unique legends, and breathtaking location, it remains a revered site for locals and visitors alike.