Drametse Lhakhang
Highlights
- Largest monastery in eastern Bhutan
- Founded in 1511 by Pema Lingpa's granddaughter
- Home of the UNESCO-listed dance of the drums
The largest monastery in eastern Bhutan was founded in 1511 by Ani Chhoeten Zangmo, granddaughter of Pema Lingpa. It is the home of the Drametse Ngacham, the mask dance of the drums, which UNESCO lists as intangible cultural heritage. It lies 18 km up a rough road from Thungdari, on the road to Trashigang.
Photo: Arian Zwegers, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
More to see in Mongar
Yakgang Lhakhang
A short drive southwest of Mongar, this temple was founded in the 16th century by Sangdag, the youngest son of Pema Lingpa. Its lama's post passes from father to son. The relics, kept in the house next door, include wood blocks, a lute and old cham masks used at the temple's tshechu.
Mongar Dzong
Mongar Dzong replaced the ruined Zhongar Dzong as the seat of the district in the twentieth century, though its central tower is older than the rest of the building. It is unusual in having two entrances, and the tower holds four temples. The Mongar Tshechu is held here in November or December.
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