Zhemgang dzongkhag derives its name from a 12th century monastery built by Lam Zhang Dorji Dragpa, a scholar-sage of Drukpa Kagyud School. The Dechen Yantse dzong, in 1980, stands on the site where Lam Zhang built a monastery in 12th century The monastery was named “Zhangang” or immeasurable mound based on the name of the founder who visited Bhutan from Zhamling in Tibet in his mission to propagate Buddhism.

The Khengkha language or Kheng, is an East Bodish language spoken by ~40,000 native speakers nationwide, in the Zhemgang, Trongsa, and Mongar districts of south–central Bhutan. 

The Dzongkhag is administratively supported by a Drungkhag in Panbang, and eight Gewogs namely Bjoka, Bardo, Goshing, Nangkor, Nangla, Phangkhar, Shingkhar and Trong. The eight gewogs has 2432 household.

Thimphu – Zhemgang (7 hr 22 min (263.4 km) via PNH1 and Sarpang – Gelephu – Trongsa Hwy)

Paro – Zhemgang (9hr 10min (324 km) via PNH1 and Sarpang – Gelephu – Trongsa Hwy)

Gelephu – Zhemgang (Tingtibi) (3hr (97 km) via Sapang – Gelephu – Trongsa Hwy)

From Trongsa: Zhemgang Town is 91.6  kilometers away from Trongsa. It takes around 3 hours by road.

From Pemagatshel (Nganglam): Zhemgang (Panbang) is  55 kilometers away from Nganglam. It takes 2 hours by road.

From Assam Border:  Zhemgang (Panbang) is 33 kilometers away from Assam’s nearest town. It takes 1.5 – 2 hours by road.

The best time to visit Zhemgang, Bhutan, is during the months of October to May. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with moderate temperatures, clear skies, and less rainfall compared to the monsoon season. These months also coincide with Bhutan’s festival season, offering visitors the opportunity to experience vibrant local culture and traditions.

You can visit the administrative center, the Dzong, Trong heritage village, Buli tsho and drive down to Berti ecolodge to experience flyfishing, hike to Berti – Tama trail and visit the Berti village. 

Panbang will offer outdoor adventures through rafting, sight seeing of animals, birds and butterflies and twinfalls. There are ecolodges where you can take your family and immerse in recreational activities.