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Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant
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The Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant is one of Bhutan's newer and more technologically advanced energy projects. It was commissioned in 2019 and is located on the Mangdechhu River in Trongsa district. With a capacity of 720 megawatts, it contributes significantly to Bhutan's energy generation. The project has been internationally recognized for its excellent execution and efficient management, receiving the prestigious Brunel Medal from the Institute of Civil Engineers in 2020. The revenue from electricity exports to India has significantly strengthened the state treasury. Mangdechhu is a run-of-the-river power plant that minimally impacts water flow and adheres to strict environmental and social standards. The project's success underscores Bhutan's status as a leading nation in clean energy and sustainable development.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: DungbiGoenpa · Tashicholing Lhaakhang
- Nearby: Zhemgang (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 12 | 32 | 102 | 145 | 194 | 257 | 196 | 137 | 64 | 5 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant is a major run-of-the-river energy project in the Trongsa district, significantly boosting Bhutan's electricity generation and export revenue. It serves as a modern engineering landmark in the country's renewable energy sector.
Visiting
As a critical national energy infrastructure facility, direct access to the interior of the power plant is generally restricted for everyday tourists. Visitors can typically only observe the exterior structures and the surrounding river basin from public roads.
Where to view it
The best vantage points for viewing the plant's massive concrete dam and spillways are situated along the winding mountain highways of the Trongsa district. The surrounding elevated terrain gives impressive perspectives of the river valley and the engineering integration.
Local products
While the plant itself does not sell goods, the nearby towns in Trongsa offer authentic Bhutanese crafts, traditional textiles, and regional agricultural produce. Travelers can often find locally woven fabrics and specialized bamboo items in the local markets.
Active season
The hydroelectric operations run continuously year-round, but the river flow and visual power of the water releases are most dramatic during and immediately after the monsoon season. The surrounding landscape is also lushest during the late summer and early autumn.
Nearby
A visit to this engineering marvel can easily be combined with exploring the historic Trongsa Dzong and the fascinating Ta Dzong watchtower museum. The scenic drive through the Black Mountains features further opportunities for nature appreciation and photography.
Geography
Facts
- Awarded the Brunel Medal in 2020
- Generates over 3,000 million units of electricity annually
- Increased Bhutan's power generation capacity by 40%
- The project cost was approx. 45 billion Nu.
- The underground pressure tunnel is 13.5 km long
- The powerhouse is located 1 km underground
- Wholly owned by the Druk Green Power Corporation
- Created over 3,000 jobs during construction
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What characterizes the Mangdechhu project?
It is considered one of the most efficient hydropower projects in South Asia.
Where is the Mangdechhu plant located?
In Trongsa district on the Mangde Chhu river.
What is the installed capacity?
It has a capacity of 720 megawatts.
When was it inaugurated?
It was inaugurated in 2019 by the heads of government of Bhutan and India.
Can you see the dam?
Yes, it is an impressive example of modern engineering in Trongsa.
Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant: where is it located?
Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant is located in Bhutan.
Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include DungbiGoenpa, Tashicholing Lhaakhang.
Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Mangdechhu Hydropower Plant is one of Bhutan's newer and more technologically advanced energy projects.
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