Trongsa, formerly known as Tongsa, is a historic town in Central Bhutan holding great significance as it is the ancestral town of the Wangchuk royal dynasty. In 1647, the construction of the Trongsa Dzong began and it became the seat of power of the Wangchuck Dynasty before they became the rulers of modern-day Bhutan in 1907. The town is perched dramatically on a steep ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu showcasing breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding valleys and mountains. The name “Tongsa’ itself means new village and was where the great grandfather of Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, built the first temple in 1543. Trongsa is a strategic central location to control the trade and power between east and west Bhutan. It is situated around 186 km (115.5 mi) from the capital city, Thimphu and the town of Jakar is another 66 km from Trongsa.

The Trongsa Dzong is the largest dzong fortress in Bhutan and was built over the sacred site of the first temple in the region. Its commanding location on a steep ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu has served as a vital defensive stronghold in Bhutan’s history, controlling the east-west trade routes. The dzong, an exemplary Bhutanese dzong architecture, is an extensive complex set on many different levels. There are 23 different Lhakhangs situated inside but are not all accessible at all times. The atmospheric northern kunrey (assembly hall) and Jampa Lhakhang with a two-storey statue of Maitreya (Jampa) are a must visit.

Overlooking the magnificent Trongsa Dzong and along the left banks of Mangde Chhu lies the Ta Dzong or the Trongsa National Museum, a meticulously restored 5-storeyed, circular tower flanked by two lower towers. It functions as a fascinating museum that is home to various religious and royal artifacts and gives insight into the rich and royal legacy of the Wangchuck Dynasty. A visit to this grand museum and its 11 galleries is bound to make anyone well-versed in Bhutanese history, culture, and art.

Trongsa experiences a subtropical highland climate characterized by four distinct seasons. The spring and summer seasons are relatively mild and pleasant, providing an inviting climate for exploring the historical and cultural treasures of this picturesque town. While winters experience colder weather with temperatures below freezing point and monsoons see ample rainfall.

Gasa, a remote district in the northernmost region of Bhutan spanning the Middle and High regions of the Tibetan Himalayas. The district is renowned for its pristine natural beauty and rugged landscapes and is home to the picturesque Gasa Dzong, which also serves as the district’s capital. The district prides itself for having some of the highest mountain peaks in the Kingdom and the whole region falls under the Jigme Dorji National Park. There are over a hundred glacial lakes that feed other river systems including Po Chhu and Mo Chhu. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to cover the 135 km (84 mi) distance between Thimphu and Gasa town.

There is plenty to explore in the region including the Gasa Dzong itself. This 17th century dzong is perched on a hilltop at an elevation of 2800 m (9,186 ft) and is the only dzong in the Kingdom that has three watchtowers at strategic points. Its rich architectural style blended with its scenic location with a backdrop of Mt. Gangboom makes it another landmark of significance in Bhutanese culture and history. Gasa is also famous for its hot springs, Gasa Tshachu, known for its therapeutic mineral-rich spring waters that provide a relaxing experience surrounding breathtaking mountainous sceneries. Additionally, the region is a trekkers' paradise, with trails like the Snowman Trek passing through, providing adventurous hikers with the opportunity to explore the high Himalayas and encounter the unique culture of the semi-nomadic Layap people who inhabit the area.

Located at an average elevation of 2,500 m (8,202 ft) and above, the region in Gasa experiences a subarctic, dry winter, cool summer climate. Winters in this Bhutanese district can be harsh, with temperatures plummeting well below freezing, particularly in the higher elevations. Summers are relatively milder, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50℉ to 77℉), providing a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities. Gasa also receives a substantial amount of rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September, which contributes to the lush greenery that blankets the landscape.