As the highway leads toward the Central Bhutan on the left and the Southern Bhutan in the right, Wangdue is the last town on the western part. It played a strong role in the 17th century in unifying the Western, Central and Southern regions of Bhutan. It is located on top of high ridge overlooking a river junction. Because it is exposed promontory overlooking the river, it is windy particularly in the afternoon. The roads are narrow with single storied houses at the end of the highway. The district is famous for bamboo works and stone carving. The road leads to the magical valley of Phobjikha, home to the endangered Black Necked Crane which migrates from Tibetan plateau in the winter.
Places of Interest: Monuments
Wangduephodrang Dzong lays majestically on a steep ridge overlooking the highway that fork to the central and southern Bhutan. It was built in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is situated at the confluence of Puna Tsangchu and Tang Chu. Legend relates that, as the people were searching for the site to build the dzong; four ravens were seen flying in four directions. This was considered an auspicious sign, representing the spread of religion to the four direction of the region.
Gangtey Geonpa which lies at 3020 m was built in 17th century by the grandson of Terton Pema Lingpa, Gyalse Pema Thinley and later expanded by Tenzin Legpai Dhendup. It is a Nyingmapa Monastery. As you drive further into the valley, you will reach the Phobjikha valley, the most beautiful glacial valley where the Black Necked Crane roosts in the winter. In this valley, an annual Black Necked Crane Festival is held every November.
