Kuenga Rabten Palace, perched on a hill overlooking the scenic valley, is a historical gem in Bhutan. Once the winter residence of Bhutan's second king, it now stands as a reminder of the country's royal past. Located about 23 kilometres from Trongsa, this palace offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the royal lifestyle of the early 20th century.
Its architecture is a perfect representation of traditional Bhutanese design, with intricate woodwork and beautifully adorned rooms. Visitors can explore the grand halls, royal chambers, and prayer rooms, all while appreciating the rich cultural and religious significance of the space. The palace also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains, enhancing the experience. A visit to Kuenga Rabten Palace is a journey back in time, allowing you to connect with Bhutan's royal history while soaking in the serene beauty of its natural setting.
Highlights
• Discover Kuenga Rabten Palace's rich history, where the Bhutanese royal family once resided, offering a glimpse into the country's past.Immerse yourself in intricate Bhutanese architecture, with stunning woodwork, traditional motifs, and craftsmanship that reflect ancient techniques.Marvel at panoramic views of the lush valleys and majestic mountains from the palace, creating an unforgettable scenic experience.Explore the peaceful ambience of the palace's surroundings, where the serene landscape complements the historical significance of the site.Experience the preserved royal chambers, showcasing antique furniture, religious artefacts, and relics that echo Bhutan's cultural heritage.
How To Reach
By Car: If you are in the centre of the city, you can take the Trongsa highway to reach Kuenga Rabten Palace. The overall travel time can take up to 22 kilometres from the heart of the city and can last up to 45 minutes.
Best Time To Visit
Kuenga Rabten Palace is open throughout the year, so you can plan your visit to this place at any time of the year.
-The best day in the week will be the weekdays due to fewer crowds regardless of any time of the year.
- The best time of the day to visit the Kuenga Rabten Palace will be in the afternoon due to the favourable temperature in the surroundings.
Other Essential Information
Visitors Tips
- Religious activities happen in the Kuenga Rabten Palace, so make sure you are dressed modestly to respect the premises.
- Maintain silence when the monks are in prayer since a lot of religious activities take place in the Kuenga Rabten Palace.
- Tourists are not allowed to visit the Kuenga Rabten Palace’s National Library so plan your tour accordingly.
- Bhutan is a relatively cold country, so make sure you carry enough medications to keep you safe from altitude sickness.
- Make sure you ask for permission from the monks to respect the sanctity of the place before you click any pictures of the palace’s interiors
Check out the interiors of the Trongsa Dzong
The Trongsa Dzong was once the residence of the Royal Family of Bhutan. It was located strategically in a place where the eastern province connected to the western province. This palace was built in the mid-1600s and ever since then, it has been a landmark in Bhutan. The palace has multiple floors that you can explore and check out the interiors.
Explore the plantations
The Kuenga Rabten Palace is surrounded by agricultural activities and has a lot of people working in the fields. You can simply walk around the plantations and observe the locals indulge in these activities. The atmosphere is known to be calm and peaceful. In fact, even the locals are known to be friendly and helpful. If needed, you can try out your hand in agricultural practices.
