Things To Do
in Mongar
Mongar is a picturesque town in eastern Bhutan, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the hills, it serves as a gateway to the eastern regions of the country and is famed for its vibrant festivals and traditional architecture. The town is surrounded by lush forests and terraced fields, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
Mongar is also home to several historic sites and is a great spot for experiencing authentic Bhutanese culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mongar Dzong, a beautiful fortress that showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture and offers stunning views of the town.
Visit the Mongar Market to experience local life and shop for handicrafts, spices, and textiles. After shopping, enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Take a leisurely stroll around the town and enjoy the sunset views. End the day with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant.
Visit the nearby village of Chaskhar to explore traditional Bhutanese homes and learn about local craftsmanship.
Engage in a cultural workshop where you can learn to weave or make traditional crafts with local artisans.
Attend a local cultural program or festival if available, featuring traditional music and dance performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍲Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2 |
| 🚌Bus ticket to nearby towns | $1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $20 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and serene environment.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming local people.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities.
- Accessibility can be challenging in some areas.
- Weather can be unpredictable, especially during monsoon season.
- "Kuzuzangpo la" - Hello
- "Tashi delek" - Good luck
- "Ngatshi chhu na" - How are you?
- "Chhakay la" - Thank you
- "Ngam yuh" - Please
Places to Visit in Mongar
Visit one of these nice places.
The fortress offers panoramic views of the valley and is a stunning example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, making it perfect for photography.
Capture the essence of rural Bhutan with its lush fields and traditional homes.
The surrounding hills and forests provide a picturesque backdrop for nature photography.
Food in Mongar
Mongar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy dish made with green chilies and cheese, often referred to as the national dish of Bhutan.
Must-Try!
Pork cooked with radishes and spicy seasonings, a favorite among locals.
A spicy chicken dish cooked with ginger, garlic, and chili peppers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Visitors are encouraged to dress conservatively, especially when visiting monasteries and dzongs.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites.
When giving or receiving items, it’s polite to use both hands as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Mongar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.
Cash is widely used, and larger establishments may accept credit cards, though it's advisable to carry cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is pleasant with blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Expect rain and humidity, but the landscapes are incredibly lush. Be prepared for occasional landslides.
The weather is cool and dry, offering clear skies and stunning views, perfect for trekking.
Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall can occur, but it’s a quiet time with fewer tourists.
Mongar at Night
Hiking in Mongar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trek that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
A longer trek that showcases diverse landscapes and rich flora and fauna, ideal for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Mongar by plane.
Approximately 80 km from Mongar, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is the closest air travel point for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Bhutan, known for their unique customs and traditions, primarily residing in western and central regions.
The indigenous ethnic group of eastern Bhutan, they are known for their distinct dialect and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national sport of Bhutan, archery is a popular pastime in Mongar, and visitors can often see local competitions.
Football is widely played among the youth, and local matches are common in the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check if dishes contain meat-based broths.
Gluten-free options are limited, but rice is a staple and can often substitute for bread.