Trongsa Dzong, officially known as Chhoekhor Rabtentse Dzong, is the largest and arguably the most impressive dzong in Bhutan, strategically situated on a spur overlooking the Mangde Chhu gorge. Built in 1648 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the first Trongsa Penlop, this colossal fortress served as the ancestral home of the Royal Family and the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Its sprawling complex, with numerous levels descending the contours of the ridge, is a testament to its formidable defensive capabilities and historical importance.

The dzong’s strategic location meant that the Trongsa Penlop could effectively control all trade and movement between the east and west of the country, making it a pivotal stronghold in Bhutanese history. It remains an active monastic and administrative center today, housing hundreds of monks. The sheer scale of the dzong, its intricate architecture, and its profound historical significance make it a breathtaking sight and a cornerstone of Bhutan’s cultural identity.