Part 25 - Trashigong dzong description and march to Rungzyung via Gamri Chu

1 page

SUMMARY:
Notes describe an old dzong near a suspension bridge with traces of fortifications, said to be the oldest after Paro’s destruction, with the dzongpen planning repairs. The party marches to Rungzyung along the left bank of the Gamri Chu through hot conditions, noting conifer woodland, multiple bridges, and some rice cultivation.

CONTENT:
flowing stream about the same size as the Kuru Chu, which it joins and forms the Manas R. Below the dzong is a big suspension bridge which is said to be extremely old, which is suspended by an old iron link chain, which is occasionally locally repaired. There are signs of old fortifications on the right bank beside the bridge. This dzong with Paro was supposed to be the oldest in the country, and now that Paro has been burnt, this must be the oldest. It is only a part of its former size. The dzongpen hopes to enlarge or renew it next year. A strong wind blows up the main valley all day, and Trashigong is much cooler than its height would lead one to expect.

To 30th June. RUNGZYUNG. 8 miles. (B.P. 205.1" = 3625' Temp. 85°.)

Left at 6.0, in at 11.0. Very hot indeed. Road leaves the dzong and drops at first steeply, then easily to the bridge over the GAMRI CHU, a large river coming in from the East. This is not crossed, but the left bank followed up by a good, well graded path, over open hillside sparsely wooded with Pinus longifolia and occasional patches of thick jungle. Two side river valleys are crossed by bridges. There is a good bridge over the Gamri Chu at Rungzyung, and some rice cultivation. We did