During the 47th Board Meeting of the Tarayana Foundation, held on 27 October 2026 at the Tarayana Centre, Her Majesty Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Founding President of the Tarayana Foundation, offered the historic Jakar Dung Zimchung to Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen. The Zimchung was received on Her Majesty’s behalf by Zimwom Kunzang Dorji.
The offering represents a meaningful step towards safeguarding an important part of Bhutan’s historical and royal heritage, while honouring the contributions of the Royal Queen Mothers to the nation’s history and development.
A Palace Rich in History and Spiritual Significance
The Jakar Dung Zimchung originally belonged to Ashi Pem Choki, the mother of Bhutan’s First King, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck (1862–1926). Her lineage traces back to Pema Lingpa and Lhalung Palgyi Dorje, a principal disciple of Guru Padmasambhava, adding to the palace’s historical and spiritual significance.
Closely associated with major political reforms in Bumthang, the Zimchung also holds deep connections to Bhutan’s Royal Family. However, in the absence of systematic historical documentation, much of its rich past has been preserved through oral traditions—an invaluable heritage increasingly at risk of being lost.
Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
Over time, the palace fell into disrepair, while Aum Kuenga Yuden continued to maintain it despite limited resources and capacity for proper conservation.
Recognising the urgent need to protect this historic site, Her Majesty Gyalyum Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck conceived the idea of restoring the Zimchung to its former glory. The vision was to dedicate the restored heritage to honouring the achievements of Bhutan’s Royal Queen Mothers and recognising their enduring role in nation-building. Her Majesty is also the Royal Patron of the Folk Heritage Museum.
In offering the Zimchung to Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Her Majesty The Gyalyum expressed her happiness at entrusting it to a descendant of the Jakar Dung lineage and its rightful custodian, with the hope that it would be put to purposeful use in honouring the Mothers of the Kings.
The offering reflects a shared commitment to preserving Bhutan’s royal heritage, keeping its historical legacy alive, and ensuring that the contributions of the Royal Queen Mothers continue to be remembered and celebrated by future generations.