Visitors require a permit to enter a dzong in Bhutan but since all travel is accompanied by a guide, this will be arranged beforehand. If a dzong is unexpectedly closed, just take it in your stride and ask to see another temple or holy site. There are plenty around and you may well receive a memorable blessing or have your fortune told by a Buddhist monk.
In a monastery or elsewhere, remember to remove your shoes before entering a temple and act respectfully. Small donations are appreciated and considered auspicious.
Bhutan Traditional Dzong, Buddhist Monastery and Fortress All in One
Perched on strategic hilltops, spurs or river banks, dzongs punctuate the land wherever you go with defensive inward-sloping walls and red and golden roofs glowing in the sunlight. There are small windows in the upper section only and sturdy gates. Whenever disaster strikes, fire or flood, these massive structures are lovingly restored by craftsmen and volunteers.
Many such fortresses com monasteries were built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Namgyel who campaigned to unify the country. Today, part monastery, part administrative quarters, the dzongs continue to reflect the dual power of religion and state in Bhutan. Inside is a colourful maze of temples and courtyards, galleries, monks accommodation and civic offices.
Visitors may also appreciate some of their architectural features in traditional and luxury hotels.
Buddhist Temples and Festivals, Mahayana Buddhism in Bhutan
Bhutan’s official religion is Drukpa Kagyu, a form of tantric Mahayana Buddhism where saints may return as bodhisattvas to help others. Enlightenment can be achieved by everyone through good deeds, prayers and offerings. Besides the Buddha, important figures portrayed in Bhutanese dzongs include Guru Rinpoche, the Tibetan saint Milarepa, the Tara deities and the gods of compassion, wisdom and power.
Annual festivals are held in major dzongs, promising myriad merits for the next life, but religion is part of every day life. Spinning prayer wheels, chanting, prostrating, leaving donations for the monks or helping in a temple are all acts of devotion. Temples may range from a wayside shrine or a home altar to an elaborate ‘lakhang’ draped in paintings and carvings.
Top Dzongs in Bhutan Himalaya, Paro, Thimphu and Beyond
- Paro dzong, or fortress on a heap of jewels, is accessed over a traditional wooden covered bridge. Best pictures are from the west bank downstream. The watch tower above houses the National Museum.
- Thimphu dzong was restored in 1962, according to tradition, without nails or written plans. It was the scene of the 2008 Coronation. There’s a large monks body, a throne room and ministerial offices.
- Punakha dzong is the winter residence of the Thimphu monks, in a stunning location at the confluence of the Mo and Po chu rivers.
- Wangdue Phrodang is another impressive monastery with commanding views of the valley. Look out for wall paintings in the main temple.
- Trongsa, on a spur above a gorge, is seen by many as Bhutan’s most dramatic dzong. It’s the ancestral home of the Bhutanese royal family, contains 25 temples and is renowned for its woodcarvings.
- Jakar, in central Bhutan, is said to be the largest dzong in the country, with superb views of the Chokor valley.
- Trashigang in the East is visible for miles on a high promontory, overlooking the confluence of two rivers.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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