01/11/2024
Along the Chamkhar River of Bumthang in central Bhutan, Wangduechhoeling Palace rises from the Jakar valley floor, surrounded by the verdant colors of the region’s rice fields. Constructed by Jigme Namgyel (father of the 1st King), the palace was the birthplace of the first King of Bhutan, Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck. Wangduechhoeling became the seat of national power in the early twentieth century, housing the king’s offices and courts.
The Palace is not only the finest representation of traditional Bhutanese architecture, but it is also a symbol of peace and stability in Bhutan under the Wangchuck dynasty. The Palace tells us stories of how Bhutan, as a country, was established and how our culture and traditions were during the times of the first, second, and third kings.
Restoration and curation to offer the Palace as a Museum began in 2012 by The Bhutan Foundation.
Local partners as well as international partners include the Division for Conservation of Heritage Sites, Ministry of Home and Culture, Tsao & McKown Architects, the World Monuments Fund, and the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation.
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