Dzongs or fortress-palaces are significant element of Bhutanese landscape. Originating in the 12th century, these grand structures were built to serve as both fortresses and religious centers. Dzongs played a crucial role in consolidating power and preserving Bhutanese culture, offering protection against invasions and serving as the administrative and religious hubs of their regions. Today, dzongs stand as symbols of Bhutan’s unique heritage and offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history and spiritual traditions. Here are five must-visit dzongs in western Bhutan that showcase the grandeur and significance of Bhutan’s remarkable architecture and medieval engineering.
Paro Rinpung Dzong
Located in the picturesque Paro Valley, Paro Rinpung Dzong is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and historically significant dzongs. The dzong’s name translates to ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, the dzong served as a stronghold during the early years of Bhutan’s consolidation under his leadership. The dzong’s impressive architecture, with massive stone walls and intricately carved wooden balconies, overlooks the Paro chhu (river) and provides stunning views of the valley. Visitors can explore its richly decorated temples, courtyards, and the fascinating ancient wall paintings that depict scenes from Bhutanese history.
Semtokha Dzong
Perched on a hill overlooking Thimphu, Semtokha Dzong is the oldest dzong in Bhutan, built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The dzong is locally known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang – Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras. The dzong was restored and expanded in the 1670s by the third desi, Mingyur Tenpa, and has undergone several modifications since. The dzong, distinctive for its fortress-like appearance, features a single gate on the south side, replacing the original west gate. The central tower, or utse, rises three storeys, surrounded by prayer wheels and over 300 slate carvings of saints and philosophers. Its dark murals and embroidered thangkas are among Bhutan’s oldest and most exquisite.
Tashichhodzong
Often referred to as the ‘Fortress of the Glorious Religion’, Tashichhodzong is located in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Originally built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in 1960 by the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, to serve as the seat of the government. The dzong’s massive, whitewashed walls and ornate, colorful details exemplify traditional Bhutanese architecture. It houses the king’s throne room and the offices for the ministries of home affairs and finance. On the northern side of the dzong, a spacious open-air courtyard serves as the venue for the annual Tsechu (festival of mask dances) held every September.
Punakha Dzong
Often considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it served as the seat of the Bhutanese government until the capital was moved to Thimphu. Guru Rinpoche prophesied the site for Punakha Dzong, indicating a hill resembling an elephant. When the Zhabdrung visited Punakha, he chose the tip of the “elephant’s trunk” at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers for its construction. The initial structure, Dzong Chung, housed a Buddha statue as early as 1326. The dzong named Pungthang Dewachhenpoi Phodrang – Palace of Great Happiness. The dzong measures 180 meters long and 72 meters wide and features a a six-storey central tower (utse). The main courtyard and the central temple, with their golden roofs and elaborate murals, are highlights.
Wangdue Dzong
Wangdue Dzong, located in the Wangdue Phodrang district, was originally built in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is known for its impressive setting on a ridge overlooking the Punatsangchhu and Dangchhu (rivers), offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. According to legend, the site was chosen when four ravens flew off in different directions, an omen interpreted as the spread of Buddhism to the four corners of the earth. After the establishment of Trongsa Dzong in 1644, the penlop (governor) of Wangdue rose to become the third-most powerful ruler in Bhutan, overseeing crucial routes to Trongsa, Punakha, Dagana, and Thimphu. Tragically, the dzong was destroyed by a fire in 2012. The Dzong has been restored it former glory.
