Zhemgang District is bordered by Sarpang, Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar and Samdrupjongkhar Districts and borders Assam in India to the South. The dominant language spoken is Khengkha. Most of the Zhemgang district is part of the protected areas of Bhutan. The protected area includes Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and Royal Manas National Park which occupy much of the west.
Zhemgang is notable for being one of the last regions where ancient Bon (Animist) religious practices are still carried out. Though Buddhism has been growing in popularity, every region of the district still continues its animist traditions and Bon priests known as Bonpo are considered respected religious leaders. Their famous crafting out of bamboo such as Bangchungs (matted bamboo bowls), Palangs (alcohol containers), Balaks (hats), mats and boxes are famous in Bhutan.