Building the Legacy --II

Salem House. Happiness Kingdom Travels

Early this morning, while browsing through my Facebook news feed, I came across an interesting post from "Happiness Kingdom Travels" about a subject that has long piqued my interest—The Galem House in Punakha. 

The post offers a beautiful summary of the house, covering everything one might want to know. 

"The Galem and Singye House in Punakha is a historic landmark tied to one of Bhutan's most cherished folk tales-the story of Salem and Singye, two lovers whose tragic romance is often compared to Romeo and Juliet. The house, located near the Punakha Dzongkha, is believed to be the home of Salem, and it stands as a symbol of enduring love and devotion. Visitors can explore the traditional Bhutanese architecture of the house, which reflects the cultural heritage of the region. This site serves as a reminder of Bhutan's rich storytelling tradition and its deep connection to themes of love and loyalty".

I can't agree more on the information. However, motivated by my deep passion to preserve this historic site before it is gone forever, I quickly left a comment on the page. I have heard numerous discussions happening with different stakeholders, but time is running out as the house is decaying faster than anticipated. 

In my comment, I shared my long-held wish. "For years, I have hoped this historic house could be transformed into something special, like a museum, while maintaining its originality intact. It's more than a piece of history—it's our own Romeo and Juliet story. There's so much we can share with the world, that we have our own existence and independence."

The page admin responded me with the following lines. It's just so beautiful and informative. 

Dear Sancha, 

Our sentiments exactly! and the government is going to restore it as per the recent meet-the-press session. "And it was said that the main focus is on renovating cracks in the walls, enhancing the roofing, establishing a footpath outside the house, and installing street lights. These initiatives are currently in the final stages of preparation.  

Galem’s house serves as the backdrop for a poignant love story involving Gasa Lami Singye and Changyuel Bum Galem, a tale widely renowned throughout the country and depicted in numerous Bhutanese films.

In addition to its rich history, the altar room located on the top floor of the house is also revered as the neykhang of the deity Goen Drakpa. Goendrap is believed to be residing in Punakha during the summer and Gasa during the winter. Goendrap, from history, was supposed to bestow his blessings to those who do religious deeds. Every year, on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Bhutanese calendar, Gasa Dzongkhag offers a welcoming ritual ceremony.

On the 24th day of the 12th Month of the Bhutanese Calender, a member from the Galem’s house has to go to the Goendrap Neykhang, which is located at the other side of the MoChhu for offerings.

Before the Zhung Dratshang took over the Goendrap Neykhang, the ancestors of Galem took care of the lhakhang, but there are no records as to since when.

On the 15th day of the Third Month of the Bhutanese calendar, zhabkyel (see-off offering) has to be offered to the Goendrap when leaving for his summer residence to Gasa from Punakha.

And thank you for your lovely comment!

I have visited the Galem House several times, and each visit stirs a deep emotions. On my second visit, I felt a profound sense of melancholy, as though I was connecting with the essence of true love—a feeling that seems to be fading in today's generation. 

I get a sense that this place has the real potential to inspire future generations to value love, kindness, and humanity. 

By creatively preserving the house and adding elements that blend storytelling and leisure, we can share with the world not just the Bhutanese side of Romeo and Juliet, but also our architectural heritage and the heart of Bhutanese culture.

I am quite sure that this place with a little more creative approach, we not just harness revenue but also we can offer visitors a meaningful experience, showcasing how we have lived in a stone-age-period. And more importantly, it can teach our children about the power of 'love', family, and community bonding -values that are so authentic, pristine, fragile, rare, original and genuine. This is the way we should live and share this planet, not just by the power of guns. 

While there are stories and films about Galem and Singye, that's not enough. We need to do more to preserve this house in a better way than just leaving it as an idea, or an unfinished plan. 

If there is one thing we must embrace and pass on, it's love and care. Though time is running out, there is still a ray of hope from our Golden Throne.

Vegan Diet –The Tale Tell

bbs.bt

I am not surprised with the recent article by Kuensel dated 18^th of December titled as: 27% of Bhutanese households cannot afford nutritious food, finds WFP report, picking up some national concern.

 

This topic picked quite a lot of criticism from the educated section with sound knowledge on health and wealth, nutrition and diet. There is one thing certain from the study report –the inadequate assessment, or simply ridiculous report without good baseline data to support the 27% underrated Bhutanese households without much good and nutritious food. The data could be more correct if otherwise stated as –27% of Bhutanese households can only afford nutritious food. 

 

However,  the cost of vegetables and fruits are higher in all vegetable markets by vendors. The trend can be changed only with a good and reliable monitoring system in place. Looks like our vendors are too greedy and creepy with the cost, they are simply extracting us penny-by-penny. 

 

Someone expressed that it is time to fix certain reliable rates to vendors by the concerned authority, otherwise this problem won't be solved. Although, everything goes with the market force, there is always room for check and balance and weighing the market rates from place to place and time to time can go a long way to help each consumer. 

 

Let me share my assumption theory based on experience and what I have seen and eaten at my home as a child. The data released by WFP was a bit ambiguous in nature because we know what each household and family, friends and relatives consume for their meals. We are a close-knit society and we know what next door curry is and what they are consuming for their survival. 

 

It isn’t easy to live on a diet of vegetables and fruits. Our pallets are customed differently. Our taste buds are different. Our traditions are different. Our consumption pattern is different. Our preparation methods are different. Our timing is different. Likewise, we have different menus and accordingly we shop and spend our money. 

 

It has been more than a decade now that I am consuming less, or no rice diet for all three meals. With much practice, determination and sacrifice, now I can survive without a rice diet. After all, for a boy who has come from a family who has never been on a vegetable and fruit diet, it doesn’t come so easily!

 

For the past many years, whether it is good, or bad, I have lived with more vegetables, fruits and soup items than the rice diet. I have personally seen a huge impact especially in cutting off belly fats, and body fitness. Although I am not perfect in health, I have seen many good benefits from a vegetable and fruit diet. One thing is certain with this –you need to make a huge sacrifice in terms of cash and mindset. 

 

Just a few days back I raised my discussion with my ailing father who is with me currently for his medical check up. He is medically unfit to consume red and fatty meats. Except for some occasional wet fish soup, he needs to stay strong with a vegetable and fruit diet. Therefore, I make a point to get him some fresh and green vegetables and fruits as long as he likes the new menu. Two days before, I bought him a new fruit item by name –Dragon Fruit, its new fruit in our market although the existence has long been there in some other countries. 

 

To supplement his weakened nerves, I sliced half of one Dragon fruit and placed it in front of him. It was the very first time that he had seen the fruit. Forget about the taste, he never heard the name of this fruit. How bad is our diet for someone who has lived life with a rice diet. And amazingly the WFP report stated otherwise. 

 

It took my good time and energy to explain to him about the fruit and its existence and more importantly the health benefits. I have to impress him because he needed a good and rich B-Complex supplement for his multiple diseases. 

 

The other day I was quizzically supplying him with a fresh apple. He raised his eyebrow and asked, how can I survive with an apple slice. I have to subdue him with good reasoning because he needs a lot of energy giving fruits and vegetables. I know how good apple and Dragon fruits are for health benefits and more. However, he did not know how much I was spending my hard-earned money on those fruits. All kinds of vegetables are expensive, fruits are more costly!

 

I personally feel the WFP report needs relook, or more authentic reasons to back 27% is anyway correct for now. If the data was around 70% and above who cannot afford vegetables and fruits rich in nutrition, I can have a peaceful sleep. 

 

More than the health benefit, the cost of our vegetables and fruit are making our diet poor. For a beggar, filling a belly is more important than looking for healthy food. There is no time to think about nutrition in the uncertain battle of survival. 

And we all have similar stories, the rest is a mystery!

Declaimer: The article is the Author's own expression and does not intend to harm any individual person, or organization.

United -What?

Caption: 

Lhadar or divine flag: The power of unity. 

May the wind spread the good will and compassion into pervading space for all sentient beings. 

Azha Pasa, The Hope To Business

Azha Pasa Stall

Lately, Azha Pasa faring into business has amazed me a lot. It is a collection of unique brands of mindset and style. Their page attracted me so much for being honest and displaying utmost interest in serving the people of Thimphu valley and –beyond. I follow every post made online. I silently had a beautiful feeling for showing the real courage and determination and way forward in securing and branding our future in business.  

The one who started this online platform is the same guy who started the "Radio Valley" and "Mojo Park" some years back. He is an engineer by qualification. He left for civil service just to pursue his dreams in the media.  

Recently Azha Pasa outlet has impressed me for their new outlook of their shop, which is located at the KMTS, opposite to Eight Eleven in the heart of thimpthrom. Although it was a new undertaking, however it seems promising. The foundations had been laid for the future of vegetable stores. More than the outlet, it should serve as an example. Furthermore, it should be a lesson for the government to plan on such enterprises, which will benefit the development of the country and tighten the hands of the nation. 

 

However, I have a few random suggestions to Azha Pasa. Installing a cooling system will hugely benefit tender and delicate leafy vegetables. Exploring ways and means on proper packaging systems to all kinds of vegetables and price tags would give another boost to the business firm for authentic pricing, thus, it gives no room for bargain on the label. I strongly feel that a bar-code-reading system would give better attraction and fairness. We don't want different pricing for different people, which is a longstanding hitch. I look forward to Azha Pasa, since the start was greatly admired by people across. I want this start-up business to be the superhero! Should Azha Pasa take it wisely in streamlining this customer care service, it will be a game changer moment for us, the patent of Azha Pasa app is well preserved for all times. Furthermore, do look for some means to install the CCTV, the other necessary list these days for safety reasons. Putting up all these little systems in place would immensely secure the nation. 

 

Despite low quality service in place, everything worked so well. There wasn’t much complaint about the servicing. Poor service is something of a quite normal thing in our society. We never demanded for it. We never thought of it, how badly we were treated in the shop, as long as we get our job done, we never realize quality things and effective service to be in place. So far, ours is more like a rough gangsters show. If you like to come and watch, else we don’t bother about you. However, things are changing slowly and it seems everything is fitting into a pattern we look forward to in future. We are gaining experience for a quality, efficient and more transparent system for our children. However, I am optimistic in the words of Benjamin Franklin "Old habits die hard." 

 

I admire this guy for his boldness and courage. For his outstanding work and vision. For setting examples and outsourcing few foreign tests to our locals. It would be rather unwise to let someone plan for us. I see a brighter future of this multi-talented long hair guy. 

 

Looking at their plan for business expansion, my feelings for the team grew indeed even stronger and deeper after the lunch of Azha Pasa app. I am confident of his ability to run a business at a higher level and starting up a more reliable delivery system would further brand his income. The sense of business is great and the future would be even greater and stronger only if things catch up with a quality and effective service system. Indeed, a booster of the hopes and morale of the high state authority and the Dragon parliament. I have no doubt he would raise the standard of business style and opportunity.

 

Like him, we need more engineers working in agriculture and business sectors as their own boss and style encouraging and starring especially the agriculture sector and other aspiring youths. 

 

I hope he will someday have a happier day to cherish and look back and feel satisfied for the deeds. This gentle, a soft and cool looking guy would definitely prosper in his life not only as a "Radio Guy" but also a successful entrepreneurial guy. He would one day have fulfilling days and we want to see this guy walking Thimphu Street in a perfect dignity. 

 

Our new beloved brand Azha Pasa will become one of the Jewels of Thimphu valleys –or at least we should make it one of the real Jewels for the future nation-wide. 

The Perfect Weekend Outing

Saturday wasn't that great. Champions City fell 11 points behind the top rival Liverpool in EPL fixtures after nervy 14 games down already. Therefore, the hope of winning a third consecutive EPL crown for City is becoming slimmer and daunting. Anyway, I am hoping the best to happen on the City side in the coming days. 

However, Sunday was full of different experiences as I could visit recently revived Dangkhar Menchu to soak myself despite a hectic schedule. The Menchu is located 8 kms (app. 4.9 miles) away from Zhemgang town towards Trongsa. It was face-lifted jointly by Zhemgang Forest Division, and the people of Dangkhar village for the preparation of recently (Nov. 11 - 13) held "Bhutan Bird Festival" at Tingtibi.  Perhaps, it was a gift for all of us. However, as of now, the Menchu is managed by the Dangkhar Community, and is open to all ages, and kinds. 

Time: Anytime of the day. However, the best is during weekends and other holidays.

Charges: As of now, the fees are very reasonable, and affordable. It is Nu. 100 per hour per person. One tub (Waa) can comfortably accommodate two persons at a time. If you like to visit the Menchu, you may kindly inform the caretaker (head of the committee) two-to-three hours in advance for the necessary arrangements. (contact number#+975-17537204).

Benefits: Healing effects –boost blood circulation, reduce stress, piles, body, and joint ache.

Recommendation: Although, the place is very suitable, serene, and ideal for both family and individuals outing. However, car parking and safety railings are required not only for kids but also for senior citizens right in front of the main entrance and the way that leads to the toilet. Although the location of the toilet is quite far away, however, toilet facility is superb, and impressive. 

During my first visit, I found the caretaker (manager) of the Menchu very polite, lively, and approachable because in many offices and organizations these human qualities are actually missing today. So next time you visit Zhemgang, don't miss to visit and soak yourself in the Menchu. 

However, I am a bit skeptical about its sustainability, and the management. 

Nutritious Food for School Children???

BBS News dated 12th March was brilliant but not exciting, nothing new –Government to focus nutritious diet in schools. What are our school children eating so far? –rock –paper, and –scissor.

I would like to point down a few observations regarding this and our governments pledges. In the world deluged by self-driven motives, money and fame are excessively becoming powerful. Therefore, I can summarize a very nutritious diet menu into four factors that can solve long standing puzzles of ours.

Pledge Factor –

Of Course, the government can work to fulfill their pledges. But more than a pledge they must also look at the ground reality. Government must genuinely study the existing system before making it national. For kind information every boarding school has already a balanced diet menu and some even have better and sufficient menus than our individual homes. 

Stipend Factor –

Money alone can't solve this equation. I feel Nu. 1000.00 to Nu. 1500.00 or little more per student per month is a good sum. One can easily manage a very good balanced diet menu with Nu. 1000.00 in mass. Increasing stipend without planning is a loss in itself. Let's cook the mouthwatering menu to our children and not from the prime minister's desk. Most of the schools across the country have already very good nutritious menus --eggs, meats/fish, butter, fruits, Yogurt, milk, lentils, green vegetables, chilli, chickpeas etc etc... What more? We only need proper and transparent management in the kitchen to suppliers. 

Way forward –let us also implement some good food habits in our kids. I feel every meal shouldn't be Rice-Rice-Rice.

Cook Factor –

The biggest challenges I can see in our schools is with cooks. What if government employees trained, genuine and educated cooks? Government can look out for a better pay package for our cooks so that the right menu with quality food can reach our children. The other most important issue our cooks face today is the housing problem. Most of them either build their own hurt or rent low quality houses which makes them morally low. All we need is to provide them with a better working environment. That would bring more work proficient, a sense of belongingness and better work ethics. We all must also know that everything (right menu) starts from them (cooks).

Working condition Factor –

If we want quality food to reach to our children, we must also look for better working conditions. What if we can replace the old oven with modern gears –Rice Cooker. Rice cooker is more environment friendly, safe and easy to use. It also saves time and energy. 

Way forward –some workable engineers, please think for modern kitchen with a proper water supply.

Why does a student have to go to the Agriculture ministry, when education has a separate division who looks after the school food and nutrition/feeding program? Instead of making it a more delicious menu, it would further escalate inconsistency and more problems.

If we want to see the change in our school kitchen, we need to change the mindset by making the cooking job more attractive, /some investment in our cooks. We need someone who can serve the nation with loyalty and to TSA-WA-SUM with honesty.

My Toilet Dream, Everyone's Choice

As I have already been involved in managing public toilets on a few big occasions, this time when I heard about the BazaGuru Drungdrup for three days (1^st to 3^rd March) I was rather obliged rather than feeling excited. 

To create the toilet of my dreams, I went to check the conditions of the public toilets several times (Moelamchenmo ground, zhemgang). To my surprise the recently constructed public toilet surrounding was in a very hostile condition.  

I tried everything in my control to do some cleaning although the weather was in our favor. 

Before I headed back home, I approached the camp coordinator to support my cause with some toiletries –tissue paper, soap, buckets, jugs, and phenol. I elaborated to him in length that these items are mandatory to keep any toilet clean and tidy. But, he seemed least bothered. He hesitantly accepted to fund my aforementioned proposal. 

For whatever reasons, I did not give up because I know it is for the good cause. It is a public matter and I felt the need is urgent. Therefore, I remained firm and pushed myself even further. I even have to coax some officers in between thinking for some favors to carry out this public service more blatantly and successfully. But, very few have supported the move.

On the first day, we were very excited. Therefore, we reached there by 5:45 am. In fact, before anyone, we took with us our own buckets, jugs and some hard brooms because we knew these items won't be on their list. I left my team to do a final touch and I went straight to the store. I luckily got phenol and the soap. I thanked them immensely. I told them I would remain obliged for their kindness and the support for the cause.

On the very first day, after a few hours we came across acute water shortage, toilet shortage especially for our females (4 units for large gathering is too less), missing tissue paper and maintaining the surrounding clean free of litters.

To keep the mission alive, I immediately rushed to a few officers I knew, for some help –the only word that I could utter was “Water Shortage for Toilet Sir”. Luckily we got immediate supply from the Fire Fighter Truck that lasted just for a few hours because the water storage tank was too small for the crowd. Anyway we managed till the last hour. We even fought silently with cooks over water –they felt the kitchen was more important (of course we too felt the same) and we had our own share of rights (everyone has the right to clean the toilet). I and my team tried our best to convey that toilets are equally important like kitchens. We did not back an inch from our prospect, and our gesture remained unabatingly firm and our mission remained undying like Ashley Eden. We felt the first few hours were less impactful but as time passed by we picked our momentum and slowly everyone felt our presence. Everyone trusted us and everyone seemed impressed with our dedicated service. 

On the second day we ran short of water supply more acutely, we had to struggle to maintain the sufficient amount of water for the toilet; on the other hand some officers’ were reluctant to aid us. But after several special requests, by afternoon Municipal Officer gave us the independent water supply and the two small tar drums which immensely helped us to perform our toiletry works. 

Third day was a bit easy and comfortable. We only needed to check the water supply, phenol, soap and clean the toilet pot from time to time. Although we all were thoroughly exhausted, we never gave up.

After working tirelessly and selflessly, we got some positive feedback – “toilet was very clean, and toilet smells so good”, these remarks gave us a sense of happiness, satisfaction and pride for the work we undertook to serve everyone.

We also had some bitter experience from three-day experience – people become bother less, carefree, and too dependent with free services, which made me reflect on the quote – “Once you carry your own water, you will learn the value of every drop”.

All these were made possible due to my dedicated and committed team [7 boys and 3 girls] for which I shall remain ever grateful and thankful. I am also so humbled by their team spirit, energy level, sacrifice and positiveness. 

Let's make toilets a first priority!

    Let's stop to defame mother nature!

   Let's forget the dirty toilet mindset!

Youth and Culture

Culture is a strong part of our everyday lives. It influences right from our views, hopes, values and loyalties towards self and others. Together culture and tradition play a very important role in building strong family bonds from generation to generation.  

Nevertheless, to progress further with existing practice of serving meals in traditional etiquette in Zhemgang CS, school has recently introduced the culture of "Phob and Thoray" (Phob means "small soup bowl" and Thoray is loosely translated for "white scarf") to uphold our age-old culture and tradition. Perhaps, it may have seemed new to some, fashion to a few and burden to little. But it is for the good cause. 

So long the history is known, "Phob and Thoray" has long existed as a part of culture and tradition in some parts of the high Himalayas. But, Bhutan Zhabdrung instituted this culture in the 16th centuries. We have nothing but this very uncommon folklore. This makes us very different and special from the rest of the world. This very isolated and untouched culture and tradition of ours have already attracted enough foreigners. With the introduction of this forgotten traditional culture in school, our children are experiencing two very strange lifestyles –one of the past and the other of modern days. While some said perhaps food taste best from their "Phob and Thoray" and some feel cool to have food in such extraordinary fashion. 

At the time of rapid advancement in science and technology, it is extremely difficult to convince our young friends on such subjects. And even difficult for them to accommodate in such old fashion. For our students the only way we can conjure such lessons is through emphasizing its significance and integrating into daily lessons. Although it was quite late, nevertheless I hope this lesson would immensely benefit them in many ways than one. It may give them new hope, new excitement and a new dimension to explore and take this culture –beyond school boundaries –to their family, friends, neighbors, relatives and community.

The conundrum of age–old culture and tradition is putting every society at risk and has become a thing of the past. And at this time and space if we fail to educate our kids on such deteriorating customs at home and school, we will face the consequences very soon. It is everyone's sole responsibility to jointly share and uplift our ancestors' good value to new generations. What I wish our political party must include this kind of important and necessary unit in their manifestos rather than insincere agenda in mining rivers. 

If we want to be the champion in our uniqueness, let us do it together with our heart. If it is good for the self and the nation, let us join our hands collectively to say we are one people and one nation. 

Thus, we are the creator, we are the actor and we are the ambassador of our own culture and tradition. Together we can!

5 best places you must visit in Bumthang

Bumthang is located at an altitude of 2800m (9,185ft) above sea level. From the time immoral, the valley is famous for holding many age-old monasteries, Lhakhang's and other secret religious sites more than any other places.

Due to its beautiful landscape, people often mislead Bumthang with Switzerland. For the local people, their main crops still remain buckwheat and barley although potatoes were recently introduced in the valley. 

For centuries the valley also houses for many highly regarded lamas and intellectuals. Above all, Bumthapzams are uniquely tall and beautiful. 

1. Kurjey Lhakhang

 

View of Kurjey Lhakhang from Tamshing monastery

Kurjey Lhakhang is located few minutes’ drive away from Chamkhar town. Kurjey means the body print of Guru Rinpoche. The main temples also called as the Guru Lhakhang, that was built by Trongsa penlop, Minjur Tenpa in 1652. As you travel more inside the Lhakhang, you can see and touch many ancient histories. But more surprisingly one can witness the 16^th century old Cypress tree still standing firm and strong, which was supposed to be the walking stick of Guru Rinpoche. The other is the Kurjey Drupchhu, a sacred spring water. Therefore, don't miss the chance if you visit Bumthang valley.

2.  Membar Tsho (The Burning Lake)

 

Path that lead to Mebar Tsho

Mebar Tsho

The burning lake is located along the way to Tang village. It takes approximately thirty to forty minute's drive from Chamkhar town. Mebar tsho is considered as one of the most sacred place in the region. It is believed that the great Terton Pema Lingpa have re-discovered the hidden treasure (the text hidden by Guru Rinpoche).

The place is always filled with the local people from all works of life and as far as Lingzhi. On pick tourist season, many tourists visit the sites to offer some butter lamps and to see the amazing beauty of the lake. But more importantly, one need to be watchful while visiting the sites since the path leading to the main lake is extremely narrow and slippery. The place is not advisable for small kids alone and someone who is a heavy boozer.

3.  Tamshing Monastery

Tamshing Monastery is one of the most important Nyingma Gompa built by Pema Lingpa in 1501. It is one of the oldest monastery in the country. It holds many sacred histories and important relics. Interestingly, the heavy iron net has completely dazed me for its supernatural belief. I wish for my Australia dream and if you happen to be around the valley, please make a visit and throw your wild wishes. It may be possible sometime!

4.  Tharpaling Monastery

 

View of Tharpaling from Gyetsa village

Tharpaling Monastery from mountain top

Men in action to cross the dead lock hill. 

View of Chamkhar town from Tharpaling top

View of Chumey town from Tharpaling top

View of Chumey town

Tharpaling monastery is located above Chumey valley approximately at an altitude of 3,600m. A very narrow diversion road from the national highway goes up to the monastery from Gyetsa village. It takes an hour drive uphill to reach the site. The main part of the monastery was established by Longchen Rabjam in 1308. Chodrak monastery, a place where Guru Rinpoche mediated is also located just above the main sites. The whole flank of the mountain is serene for mind training and meditation. Therefore, if you are looking to calm your mind and body, please do visit and experience the amazing and blessed mountain.

Once you reach on the top, above all the monasteries, you get the best view of Chumey valley to the south and Chamkhar town to the north. The place is simply amazing and simply spectacular. It gives the best feel, the feel that touch heaven on earth.

However, if anyone wish to visit the monastery, the best season is cross summer and early spring. I discourage winter season because it will definitely freeze your ball however it can give the best view of some mountains and the valleys. More so, if the plan is for more detail visit, you need to look for tent and need to pack your lunch. My only advice is carry some sweets otherwise, you will go dry and etiolate on bald mountain top and I am not responsible for that!

5. The Palace of 2^nd King [Domkhar Dzong/Palace]

  

Domkhar palace is located above Domkhar village, few kilometers drive above the national highway on the left bank of Chumey river.

The second king, Jigme Wangchuck have built this palace as a summer residence for himself and the queen, Ashi Phuntsho Choeden in the year 1937. From then it continues to serve as the residence for Trongsa Penlop, the future king.

Inside the palace one can clearly see numerous relics and statue of khandroms. More interestingly one can also get to see the place where late king, Jigme Wangchuck used to meet Ashi Phuntsho Choeden in the room.