Hidden within the lush forests of Langthel Gewog in Trongsa District lies a remarkable community — the Monpa people — one of Bhutan’s earliest indigenous groups, whose way of life is deeply intertwined with nature, tradition, and spiritual belief.

The Monpa villages of Phumzur, Wangling, and Jangbi — home to around 370 people across 60 households — offer visitors a rare glimpse into a culture that has gracefully withstood the test of time. For generations, the Monpas lived as forest dwellers, practicing shifting cultivation and relying on the bounty of the Black Mountain, or Jwodurshing, their sacred ancestral guardian.

Stepping into these villages, visitors will discover stories of a people whose history is written in their language, Monkha — a unique dialect from the Tibeto-Burman language family — and in their traditional handwoven attire, Pagay, crafted from wild nettle fiber. Although Pagay is now reserved for special occasions, replaced by Bhutan’s national dress in everyday life, its intricate patterns still reflect the Monpa’s deep connection to their forested homeland.

Modern conveniences have reached these once-isolated villages — schools now nurture young minds, healthcare is within reach, and the cultivation of cardamom and oranges has become a source of livelihood. Yet, amidst these changes, the Monpa people continue to cherish their rich spiritual heritage.

One of their most sacred traditions is Shilaidung, a seasonal ritual performed during winter and spring to honour Jwodurshing and offer thanks for nature’s blessings. This beautiful ceremony once united all three villages in a grand celebration, complete with offerings from the first harvest and a symbolic pause in forest foraging for three days. Although today the ritual is celebrated more modestly within individual villages, its spirit lives on — a testament to the Monpa’s enduring reverence for the natural world.

Visitors may also hear tales of the village deities that protect each settlement — Zhiripa in Wangling, Kipmugchin in Jangbi, and Wompo in Phumzur — reflecting the Monpa’s deep-rooted spiritual relationship with their surroundings.

Elders like Sonam fondly recall the vibrant gatherings of the past and express hope that future generations will continue to safeguard their traditions, language, and environment. Efforts are already underway within the community to revive cultural practices and share their story with visitors who seek to understand the soul of Bhutan beyond its majestic landscapes.

For those looking to experience a living heritage, the Monpa villages of Trongsa offer more than just scenic beauty — they offer a heartfelt journey into Bhutan’s cultural roots, where tradition and modernity gently weave together in harmony.

This article was featured in Kuensel Print Media, covered by Yangyel Lhaden on May 15, 2024.