Perched majestically on the western bank of the Wangchu Riverwith a commanding view of theThimphu valley, the Tashichho Dzong or Thimphu Dzong is known as the ‘the fortress of the auspicious religion’. The structure is arresting as you approach it, a two-storied whitewashed building with four three-storied towers standing guard at each corner, all constructed around a large central tower or an utse. The courtyard surrounding the premises is lush, well-kept and alive with colourful flowers.

If you’re impressed by the outside though, the interiors of this magnificent structure will really take your breath away. Housing the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan, his offices, and the secretariat, the northern portion of the structure is the residence of thevenerated monastic society, Central Monk’s Body.

Entry to the premises is restricted to after 5pm, once the offices close for the day, but this should definitely feature of your list of places you must visit. The Buddha in the temple is massive, and you will find yourself quite in awe of the quiet elegance and beauty of the structure.

The original Thimphu dzong was constructed in 1216 by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa where Dechen Phodrang now watches over the city ofThimphu. Over the centuries, it has seen its fair share of upheaval, damage and consequent renovation. Having survived two massive fires and an earthquake, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck had it completely renovated in 1952 after he moved the capital to Thimphu, in a traditional manner that entailed neither nails nor any written plans. It has been seat of the Bhutanese government and the Dharma Raja and the royal family ever since.

• West of the Thimphudzong is Ney Khang Lhakhang, a small tower housing a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and other Buddhist deities.
• The night view is unparalleled at this Dzong, so since you’re going to entering post-5pm, try and stay till sunset.
• Photography is restricted in the King’s offices and the temple but carry your camera to this Dzong all the same!

• The Dzong is open to visitors only once the offices shut at 5:00 pm.

• Most tourists prefer to hire a mini-bus or a 4-wheeler to travel around Bhutan as local and inter-district bus services are not too comfortable and make frequent stops.
• In case you are taking these buses, be sure to carry bottled water and snacks in the event of a landslide (common in the area) that might take some time to clear up.

• Karma’s Coffee
• Zest Bar & Lounge
• Plum’s Cafe

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Thimphu before you plan your trip.

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