Historical Facts of Bhutan

  Brief Biography of Geshe Ngawang Kunga Gyamtsho (1702-1776) Geshe Ngawang Kunga Gyamtsho, born in Pagar Rilung Gonpa in Bhutan, was a remarkable individual whose talents and contributions left a lasting impact on his community. He was known as Ngawang Dondup in his early years. From a young age, Geshe displayed exceptional qualities, endearing himself to the elders of the village with his wise words and kind demeanor. His upbringing was filled with love and admiration from all who knew him. Under the guidance of esteemed teachers such as Jetsun Sang Ngag Gyamtsho and Jetsun Jamyang Gyamtsho, Geshe embarked on a journey of learning that encompassed a wide range of subjects, from grammar to philosophy. His dedication and hard work culminated in the successful completion of his studies. One of Geshe's notable achievements was the writing of the Kanjur at Semtokha Dzong, where he demonstrated his skill by producing fourteen shog loka on regular days and sixteen shog loka on h...

  The Ashley Eden Mission to Bhutan 1863-64     Ashley Eden was a Secretary to the Government of Bengal. Ashley Eden was chosen to lead the British Mission to Bhutan. In 1861, British sent its Mission to Sikkim. Ashley Eden was sent to Sikkim as political officer and the Mission was successful. This could be the reason behind for appointing the Ashley Eden to lead the British Mission to Bhutan in 1863. The Viceroy Lord Canning endorsed the proposal of sending the Mission to Bhutan. Lord Canning was replaced by Lord Elgin as next Viceroy. Lord Elgin also gave permission to send mission to Bhutan. Cecil Beadon was the Lieutenant Governor of Bengal. The Mission members include Dr. Benjamin Simpson, Captain Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen, the second –in-command of the Mission, and Captain W.H. Lance. They brought Cheeboo Lama of Sikkim as an interpreter. Cheeboo Lama served as the agent of the Sikkimese Government at Darjeeling so long and he also acted as the adviser to...