15 Dzongs of Bhutan To Experience Local Culture in 2025

Dzongs Of Bhutan

1. Tashichho Dzong
2. Punakha Dzong
3. Rinpung Dzong
4. Jakar Dzong
5. Lhuentse Dzong
6. Simtokha Dzong
7. Ngoedruptse Dzong
8. Daga Dzong
9. Trongsa Dzong

Bhutan dzongs are an essential part of the rich culture and architectural heritage of the country. These fortress-like structures serve as religious, administrative, and social centres in Bhutanese communities. Each dzong is unique with its own fascinating history, intricate design, and stunning location.

One of the most famous dzongs in Bhutan is Punakha Dzong, which is well-known for its stunning murals and large courtyards. Another remarkable dzong is Trongsa Dzong, which is the largest monastic complex overlooking the Mangde Chhu River. If you want to attend the Thimphu Tshechu Festival, you should consider visiting Tashichho Dzong. Jakar Dzong is also a worth-visiting attraction to see its watchtower and unique water systems. Some of the other magnificent dzongs in the country are Rimpung Dzong and Lhuentse Dzong.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Bhutan packages from Thrillophilia today and visit these spectacular dzongs on your visit to the country.

Here are some of the best Bhutan Dzongs:

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Explore All (70)

01

Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong is a stunning Buddhist monastery and fortress located on the banks of the Wang Chu River. Also known as the "Fortress of the Glorious Religion," this monastery was originally built in 1216 and has been expanded over the years. Today, it serves as the home of the government and the summer residence of the Chief Abbot.

The architecture of the monastery looks amazing with whitewashed walls, golden roofs, and detailed woodwork. It is among those Bhutan dzongs that light up in the evening to create a scenic view against the backdrop of Thimphu Valley.

Location: Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu, Bhutan

Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday to Friday)

Entry Fees: BTN 300 (INR 300.29)

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02

Punakha Dzong

Also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” Punakha Dzong is a beautiful example of Bhutanese architecture. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it is the second largest and oldest among the dzongs in Bhutan.

This dzong is famous for its detailed woodwork, stunning murals, and vast courtyards, along with sacred relics of the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. This place has hosted important royal events, including the 2011 royal wedding of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Jetsun Pema.

Location: Punakha, Bhutan

Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday to Saturday)

Entry Fees: BTN 500 (INR 500.44)

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03

Rinpung Dzong

Rinpung Dzong is one of the beautiful Bhutan dzongs that is popular for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere.Translating to “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels," this ancient monastery has historically protected Bhutan from foreign invasions.

Today, it serves as an important administrative centre in Paro that houses monks and many paintings depicting the life of Buddha. You can enjoy a hike to the top of the fortress to see scenic views of the nearby villages.

Location: Paro District, Bhutan

Timings: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (March to October), 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. (November to February)

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04

Jakar Dzong

Jakar Dzong, also known as the “castle of the white bird” is among the unique and important dzongs of Bhutan. It was initially built as a monastery by the great-grandfather of the first Shabdrung. Now, it serves as the administrative centre for Bumthang District that provides shelter to regional monks.

Some special features of Jakar Dzong are its watchtower and unique water systems with walls directing water from a spring downhill. This monastery offers spectacular views of both the Chokhor and Bumthang Valleys.

Location: Jakhar Dzongkhag Office, Jakar, Bhutan.

Timings: 9 a.m, to 5 p.m. (Monday to Friday)

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05

Lhuentse Dzong

Among the unique Bhutan dzongs, Lhuentse Dzong is a key attraction in Kuri Chhu Valley, which is famous for its beautiful Bhutanese architecture. This dzong is made up of five temples, with the Watchtower housing three temples dedicated to Padmasambhava.

The upper part of the complex is a hall for the monks who reside and manage the fortress. You can visit the monastery to attend the vibrant celebrations of the Lhuentse Tshechu festival that is held every year in September. It also lets you experience the cultural and spiritual essence of Bhutan through its architecture.

Location: M58P+6MJ, Lhuntse, Bhutan

Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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06

Simtokha Dzong

Popularly known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang, Simtokha Dzong is a special place among the dzongs in Bhutan. The name of the monastery translates to “Atop a Demon” as it was built to scare away an evil spirit that was frightening travellers. It is not only a religious place but also a major institute for learning the Dzongkha language.

People admire its unique architecture, especially its central tower, which has twelve sides. On your visit, you can see the prayer wheels and around 300 slate carvings of saints and philosophers in the dzong.

Location: 846 Je Bamo Lam SE, Tshatshobaykha, Bhutan

Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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07

Ngoedruptse Dzong

Ngoedruptse Dzong is a modern fortress built in 2012 with a semi-circle design in Bhutan. It is an important dzong of Bhutan because it handles many administrative tasks for the region. Officials from the National Commission for Women and Children frequently visit this dzong.

Besides the launch of the book “The Ngoedruptse Vol. III - Issue I,” the place offers finance services through Cluster Finance Services. Inside the attraction, you will find sacred monuments that display beautiful architecture and the cultural importance of the place.

Location: Chhukha, Bhutan

Timings: 7.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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08

Daga Dzong

Also known as Daga Trashiyangtse Dzong, Daga Dzong is a beautiful and majestic castle in Bhutan. It is a significant heritage that was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1651 to protect the country from invading armies. Over the years, it became the office of the cabinet minister under the Desi system of government introduced by Zhabdrung.

Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Dagana district administration and houses the clergy. You can explore the attraction to experience its vibrant traditions and festivals.

Location: Dagana District, Bhutan

Timings: 5.21 a.m. to 7.04 p.m.

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09

Trongsa Dzong

Trongsa Dzong is one of the largest and most impressive Bhutan dzongs, located on a ridge overlooking the Mangdhe Chhu River. It is a grand structure with steep drops to the south that disappear into clouds and mist. You will be amazed to know that the only trail that connects Eastern and Western Bhutan used to run through this dzong.

The complex is also a major monastic centre with over 200 monks. You can explore the Ta Dzong, a watchtower initially built to watch for enemies.

Location: FGX3+VXG, Trongsa, Bhutan.

Timings: 9 a.m, to 5 p.m. (Monday to Friday)

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Chele La, paro Tashichho Dzong, thimphu city The National Memorial Chorten, thimphu city Rinpung Dzong Monastery, paro Punakha Suspension Bridge, bhutan National Museum, Paro Jigme Dorji National Park, punakha Dochula Pass, bhutan Gangtey Monastery, paro Phobjikha Valley, paro Chimi L Hakhang Temple, punakha Royal Manas National Park, bhutan Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, punakha Drukgyel Dzong, paro National Folk Heritage Museum, thimphu city Motithang Takin Preserve, thimphu city Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek, paro Simply Bhutan, thimphu city Haa Valley, paro Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang Temple, paro Tango Goemba, thimphu city Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, bhutan Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag Weekend Market, thimphu city National Library, thimphu city Clock Tower Square, thimphu city Namgay Artisanal Brewery, paro Changangkha Lhakhang, thimphu city Wangchu River, paro Choki Traditional Art School, thimphu city Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, thimphu city Druk Path Trek, paro Bumdrak Monastery, paro Zuri Dzong Fort, paro Bumthang Valley Torsa Strict Nature Reserve, punakha Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, trashigang National Institute For Zorig Chusum, thimphu city Handicrafts Market, thimphu city Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, bhutan Wangchuck Wildlife Sanctuary, trongsa Nyamai Zam, paro Ugyen Pelri Palace , paro Kila Goemba , paro Ura Yakchoe Festival, bumthang Salt Trek Route, trashigang Jhomolhari, bhutan Pho Chhu River, bhutan Karbandi Monastery, bhutan Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, bhutan Lhuntse Tshechu, bhutan Trashi Yangtse, bhutan Gangtey Valley, bhutan Zuri Dzong, bhutan Phajoding Temple, bhutan Mongar And Lhuntse, bhutan

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18 November 2015

Kali Ahluwalia Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Bhutan @

Excellent

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek was a great experience. It passes by picturesque lakes, Alpine meadows and villages set to a backdrop of magnificent mountainous landscapes. The experience was amazing and brilliant. We had a really great trek. It was sheer brilliance.

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16 August 2015

Dhanpati Khatri Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Bhutan @

Excellent

The trekking experience was great. I had a really nice trek here. It was an inexpensive and a really nice trek. I had a great time.

+2

10 October 2015

Satyen Asan Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Bhutan @

Excellent

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is something that every trekker must take in his life. It is so poignant and brilliant. I totally loved this. WOW can be an understatement. The crystal clear, poignant lakes just give me goosebumps. The pristine lakes are so beautiful that you will forget yourself here. The trek is difficult, but nevertheless it is an amazing and a beautiful experience to say the least. I totally loved this trek and I just still can’t get enough of this trek. The experience would not have been this nice if the planning was bad. Special cheers to the team for handling the organization and planning of this tour in such a beautiful manner. If you are planning to have heartfelt trek, then look no further than here.

+2

Kailash Kaul Bhutan Tour Package From Kolkata

Excellent

I had been always thinking to make a trip to Bhutan with my friends for a long time but we could not make it. because we didn't find any best trip planner sometimes we are okay with the plan but the price was too way expensive which is why our trip is pending... But we are so lucky enough that this time we found it with Thrillophilia we go through the website and even call the company and we get the full info about the tour with details...The price they offer too was affordable and the itinerary is very satisfying... The booking was easy, mode of payment was secure, and instantly shared the voucher and with important details in it about the operator contact number, locations, and all...We are a party of 4 adults who went on this trip and really we are so impressed by the way they organized, it is exactly as in the itinerary...The place was very rich with culture, heritage, architecture, and art, all over it surrounded by beautiful sceneries...good photograph we took at each...Excellent accommodations, on-time picked-up, and dropped-off, very welcoming, friendly, and well-spoken English guide... Overall we had the most brilliant tour with Thrillophilia.

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A well-organized trip from start to finish...The entire Thrillophilia team was helpful and always available at any time we need any help or queries, the arrangement of accommodations was great along with nice service and also they served good breakfast during our stay. The private cab was well-maintained, spacious, and clean along with an experienced and well-behaved driver who took us to all the popular places and even shared the history, stories, and religion of the place we visited. The main hightlight of our trip was the 5-hours trekking we had a team-leader with us who was kind and helpful with good knowledge about the place...Easy trek but yes tiring once reach the top we were impressed by the breathtaking views of the place...Overall the team made a great effort to ensure that we managed to experience everything we wanted to and what we supposed to get from the itinerary.

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I booked this tour package all inclusive from our arrival till our departure, the hotels, the transportation and everything. In love with the way you work would definitely plan again.

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I booked this tour to Bhutan from Delhi. The places we covered were pious and had attractive and eye-catching Buddha statues. Also we gained a whole new experience by exploring through the markets on our own like locals. was exceptionally well planned and executed, right from our timely pick-up from the airport till drop, the driver was friendly and supportive and the breakfast served was delicious. Thanks team.

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We booked this trip to Bhutan as a family trip. And it was amazing and exciting to get to know their culture and traditions in a completely understandable manner. The people were welcoming and loving. Enjoyed the trip.

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