This is the last town on the highway before entering Central Bhutan. Sitting on the top of a hill the formidable Dzong is the town's most visible features. In the 17th century Wangdue played a critical role in unifying western, central and southern Bhutan. The town itself is little more than an enlarged village with well-provided shops and hotels. The higher reaches of the Wangduephodrang valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. This district is famous for its fine bamboo work, stone carvings, and slate, which are mined up a valley a few km. from the town.

Wangduephodrang Dzong
Stretched along the hilltop above the confluence of the Punakha Chu and Tang Chu rivers. The Dzong is open for visitors during Wangduephodrang Tsechu, celebrated in autumn.

Gangtey Gompa / Phobjikha (3,000m/9,845ft)
In the mountains east of Wangduephodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, on the slopes of which is situated the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century. The village of Phobjikha lies a few km. down from the monastery, on the valley floor. This quiet, remote valley is the winter home of black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north, to pass the winter months in a milder climate.