A strong earthquake, felt in Tibet, India, and Bangladesh, struck less than three miles from Drametse Lhakhang in September 2009. The earthquake was strong enough to cause numerous cracks in the ancient walls of the monastery. Cracking and displacement has compromised the structural stability of the three-story temple. (...)
A strong earthquake, felt in Tibet, India, and Bangladesh, struck less than three miles from Drametse Lhakhang in September 2009. The earthquake was strong enough to cause numerous cracks in the ancient walls of the monastery. Cracking and displacement has compromised the structural stability of the three-story temple. In addition to the surrounding buildings, the pavilion at the entrance to the complex also suffered significant damage. Following the earthquake, WMF, in partnership with the Bhutan Foundation and the Prince Claus Fund for Culture and Development, is providing assistance for emergency repairs at Drametse Lhakhang and Trashigang Dzong, a neighboring fortified monastery and administrative center. WMF mounted a mission to assess the damage and provided recommendations to specialists from Bhutan’s Division for Conservation of Heritage Sites. Repair works are currently underway at both sites.
