The road from Samdrup Jongkhar to Trashigang completed in the 1960s, enables the eastern half of the country to access and benefit from trade with the south as well as across the Indian border. There is little to see in this area, other than the busy market which straddles the border. Samdrup Jongkhar is a convenient exit town for tourists who have arranged to visit the neighboring Indian State of Assam.

Samdrup Jongkhar Dzong

Samdrup Jongkhar Dzong, located in south-eastern Bhutan, is a key administrative and religious center. Established to enhance governance and spiritual practices, it exemplifies traditional Bhutanese architecture. The Dzong serves as a hub for regional administration and cultural activities, playing a vital role in the community’s social and spiritual life.

Chhokyi Gyatso Institute

The institute is located in Dewathang, Samdrup Jongkhar, which is a distinctive monastic institution. Originally founded as a small temple by Dzongsar Jamyang Khentse Rinpochhe’s maternal ancestor, the late Lama Sonam Zangpo, it underwent a decade-long restoration process, reaching its final stage in 2015. While maintaining a traditional approach to monastic life, the institute also serves as a platform for Dzongsar Jamyang Khentse Rinpochhe’s innovative ideas on modern monastic education.

As a Shedra (monastic college), it provides in-depth education on Buddhist philosophy to over 140 monks. It is also an active monastery, with a vibrant schedule that includes annual Drubchhos and Drubchhens based on sacred texts such as Khandro Sangdue, Pema Tsheyi Nyingthik, Vima Ladrub, Minling Dorsem, and Phagma Nyingthik, along with a variety of other spiritual practices. The institute follows the practice lineage of the renowned Jamyang Khentse Wangpo, fostering both scholarly study and spiritual cultivation.