View source for Jongkhar

{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
{{Short description|Town in southern Bhutan}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name             = Jongkhar
| settlement_type  = Town
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_name = [[Bhutan]]
| subdivision_type1 = District
| subdivision_name1 = [[Samdrup Jongkhar District]]
| population_total = 9,325
| population_as_of = 2017
| coordinates      = {{Coord|26|49|00|N|91|34|00|E|region:BT_type:city|display=inline,title}}
| pushpin_map      = Bhutan
| pushpin_mapsize  = 250
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Bhutan
}}
'''Jongkhar''' is a small town in southern [[Bhutan]] near the border with [[India]], specifically in the [[Samdrup Jongkhar District]]. It is situated at an elevation ranging from 200 meters to 3,500 meters, making it the largest urban center in eastern Bhutan. The town is approximately 98.3 kilometers from [[Guwahati]], [[Assam]], and serves as a key gateway for both commerce and travel between Bhutan and India.<ref name="indiatodayne">{{cite web |title=Samdrup Jongkhar: The must visit place in Bhutan |url=https://www.indiatodayne.in/samdrup-jongkhar-must-visit-place-bhutan |website=India Today NE |date=25 February 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024}}</ref><ref name="keystobhutan">{{cite web |title=Samdrup Jongkhar |url=https://www.keystobhutan.com/samdrup-jongkhar |website=Keys to Bhutan |access-date=14 August 2024}}</ref>
== History ==
Jongkhar, historically known as Kothi, evolved as a significant trading hub with the construction of the [[Samdrup Jongkhar-Tashigang national highway]] in the 1960s. This development marked its transformation from a small settlement into a bustling border town, crucial for trade between Bhutan and India.<ref name="keystobhutan"/> The town and its twin, [[Daranga]], across the border, have a rich history of commerce and cultural exchange that dates back to when the [[Sharchops]] of [[Trashigang]], [[Dungsam]], [[Orong Gewog|Orong]], and [[Trashiyangtse]] traded goods here.<ref name="wanderon">{{cite web |title=Complete Guide to the border city of Bhutan |url=https://www.wanderon.in/samdrup-jongkhar-complete-guide/ |website=Wanderon |access-date=14 August 2024}}</ref> Although insurgency problems post-2003 led to a decline in some trading activities, Jongkhar remains an essential economic center in Bhutan.<ref name="indiatodayne"/>
== Geography ==
Jongkhar is located in southeastern Bhutan, sharing borders with the Indian state of [[Assam]]. The town's geographical setting includes a mix of lowland and hilly terrains, with altitudes ranging from 200 meters to 3,500 meters.<ref name="keystobhutan"/> The surrounding region is known for its lush greenery and diverse ecosystems, offering scenic landscapes for visitors and residents alike.<ref name="indiatodayne"/>
== Demographics ==
As of 2017, the population of Jongkhar stands at 9,325.<ref name="keystobhutan"/> The town's demographic composition is largely dominated by the [[Sharchops]], with a significant presence of [[Lhotshampas]] in nearby areas such as [[Bangtar]].
== Economy ==
Jongkhar plays a pivotal role in Bhutan's economy, particularly in the eastern region. The town is a commercial hub where trade, particularly cross-border trade with India, flourishes.<ref name="keystobhutan"/> One of the key economic activities includes [[coal mining]], which significantly contributes to the local and national economy. The town also boasts a vibrant market scene, offering a variety of goods ranging from traditional Bhutanese handicrafts to fresh produce.<ref name="wanderon"/>
== Culture ==
The cultural landscape of Jongkhar is a blend of Bhutanese and Indian influences. The town hosts several important religious and cultural sites, including the [[Zangdopelri Lhakhang]], a three-storied temple at the heart of the town, known for its intricate frescos and statues.<ref name="keystobhutan"/> The town's festivals, markets, and traditional practices offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.<ref name="indiatodayne"/>
== Transport ==
Jongkhar is well-connected by road, with the nearest major city being [[Guwahati]] in [[Assam]], India, which is about 98.3 kilometers away.<ref name="indiatodayne"/> The town is accessible via [[National Highway 27 (India)|NH 27]] and [[National Highway 127D (India)|NH 127D]] from India, making it a convenient entry point into Bhutan for tourists and traders alike.<ref name="wanderon"/> The town also connects the eastern and southern regions of Bhutan, facilitating internal trade and travel.<ref name="keystobhutan"/>
== See also ==
* [[Rail transport in Bhutan]]
== References ==
{{reflist}}
== External links ==
* [http://www.samdrupjongkhar.gov.bt/index.php/district-profile Samdrup Jongkhar District Profile]
* [https://www.indiatodayne.in/samdrup-jongkhar-must-visit-place-bhutan Samdrup Jongkhar: The must-visit place in Bhutan]
[[Category:Populated places in Bhutan]]
[[Category:Samdrup Jongkhar District]]
[[Category:Bhutan–India border]]
[[Category:Economy of Bhutan]]
[[Category:Transport in Bhutan]]
[[Category:Geography of Bhutan]]
[[Category:History of Bhutan]]