Architecture In Bhutan: 5 Iconic Buildings You Must Drop By On Your Vacation

Bhutan consists of numerous spectacular religious buildings. The most striking feature of the country is the consistency in its architecture. This consistency is seen throughout the Dzongs (fortress), the Lhakhangs (temples), the Chortens (stupas) and even the regular houses. It is an astonishing fact that the architects of Bhutan never used a plan while designing structures and that is one of the most striking features of their craftsmanship. They have it all mapped out in their genius brains. This is also one of the reasons why such a spectacular consistency in the architecture in Bhutan can be witnessed throughout the entire nation.

Architecture In Bhutan: 5 Famous Dzongs

Northeast India has kept its traditional aura intact via its architecture in Bhutan. Colorful wooden doors, small windows, and slanted roofs are a characteristic feature of the Bhutanese architecture. Read about the 5 famous dzongs here:

1. Jakar Dzong

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Located in the Bumthang district, the Jakar Dzong is also known as Jakar Yugyal Dzong. Surrounded by spectacular views, Jakar Dzong does not have a watchtower located in the center but on the east side of one of its walls, unlike other dzongs. The water system of the dzong is a super-efficient one. The walls are built to the spring, from the complex and then downhill. This ensures the water flow, despite the season and the weather. It is another distinctive and exemplary architectural feature of the dzong that is mind-blowing.

Must Read: Burning Lake: A Pocket Guide To Soak In Absolute Tranquility In Bhutan’s Religious Site!

2. Trongsa Dzong

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Resting on the ridge of the mountain, the Trongsa Dzong makes for a postcard-perfect destination. Located in the Trongsa district, Trongsa Dzong is the largest fortress of Bhutan. It is home to two hundred monks. The Watchtower of the dzong has its own temple. A huge statue of Buddha made of clay is placed in the Maitreya Complex of the temple.

3. Paro Dzong

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Also known as Rinpung Dzong, the dzong operates the Kagyu School, which belongs to the ancestral lineage of the Drukpa. Located in Paro district on the banks of Paro Chhu River, the dzong is accessible via a small bridge. This is one of the most eminent monasteries. It attracts travelers and Buddhist scholars from far and wide.

Suggested Read: Backpacking In Bhutan: A Thrilling Experience For All The Travelers

4. Lhuntse Dzong

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Located in nature’s lap, this is one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bumthang, Bhutan you will come across. With a major river flowing in its vicinity, the dzong offers some of the best views of the country as well as the valley. The dzong is a complex of five temples. The dzong now lies in the hands of the monks who reside in the upper portion of the complex, in the hall of monks. The spiritual and scenic beauty of the dzong is unmatchable.

Suggested Read: Hiking In Bhutan: 9 Alluring Trails Every Hiking Enthusiast Should Walk On!

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5. Punakha Dzong

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Nestled between Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers, the location of the dzong is what gives it an important place in the culture of Bhutan. The two rivers are looked up to by the Bhutanese people as mother and father figure, respectively. The second largest and the second oldest Dzong, Punakha is located in the Punakha district. Home to the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism, the dzong is located at an elevation of 1200 meters. The dzong has a capacity to house up to six hundred monks and also houses a six-story watchtower. The wedding of the former princess of the Wangchuck dynasty was hosted here.

Further Read: Top 10 Honeymoon Places In Bhutan To Fall In Love All Over Again!

Once you visit Bhutan, it would not be easy to find another place so rich in terms of art, culture, and religion. What is the most striking feature of architecture in Bhutan is that throughout the years these hidden gems have been kept intact and have been protected from all sorts of external factors. The peaceful monasteries resting in the lap of nature are like soul food and would leave you feeling content. Book a ticket to Bhutan at the earliest to visit these places.

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