Dzongs, the fortress to explore during Bhutan Package Tour from Bangalore
Bhutan indeed is a wonderful destination to travel to if peace, tranquility, and proximity to nature are your travel goal. Bhutan, which is situated in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, has long been associated with inner peace and serenity. When one thinks of Bhutan package tour from Bangalore, the first things that likely come to our mind are its skillfully crafted architecture, well-preserved nature, and its age-old connection to Buddhism. Simply mention that Buddhism has had a significant influence on a significant portion of the nation’s age-old culture, tradition, festivals, and architecture. The Dzongs which literally means fortress are a type of distinctive building that can be found all across Bhutan. They are stunning and hold a significant role to build and run the nation. So, obviously, when you are on your Bhutan tour package from Bangalore, you might have some curiosity about these wonderful man-made marvels. Let’s talk more about the Dzongs in Bhutan.
What are the Dzongs in Bhutan?
Dzongs, which literally means “fortress” in Tibetan, stand in for the imposing fortifications that dot every inch of Bhutan. When Dzong was constructed in ancient times to signify the stronghold of Buddhism, they were typically seen as symbols of victory and power. Additionally, they stand in for the main Buddhist school, which is in charge of spreading the faith of teachings.
What is the importance of Dzongs in Bhutan?
During your Bhutan Group Tour, you will find that dzongs have a variety of uses. These dzongs have two main functions — administrative and religious functions. Both the administrative and religious needs of the monks are served by separate portions of the edifice. This difference is typically made in the same space where administrative and religious activities are carried out. The temple monks are housed separately, close to the main structure. The dzong’s design features a massive tower in the center that is encircled by a rectangular structure. In the midst of Bhutan’s tall mountain ranges, the entire complex appears to be absolutely breathtaking.
History of the Dzongs in Bhutan
The beginning of the Dzongs’ construction in Bhutan may be traced to the 12th century when Buddhist school clergymen began to construct the first Dzongs. The eminent figure Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, who established the Drukpa-Kagyud Buddhist School, began constructing Dzong structures in various regions of the nation in 1616 with the intention of promoting the Buddhist faith and its teachings.
These dzongs’ locations are very significant to the culture. The dzongs’ prominent location contributed to the unification of Bhutan as well. According to popular belief, the saints’ predictions and the country’s historical literature were to be used to decide the placement and orientation of each dzong. They continue to stand as the best examples of architecture, history, and a place of worship. There are three types of dzongs in Bhutan. Dzongs from the pre-Zhabdrung era, which were often constructed by the clergy of Buddhist monasteries, were constructed under the direction of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. During the Zhabdrung era, Bhutan’s most significant dzongs were constructed. The present varieties of dzongs are said to date from the post-Zhabdrung era.
Famous Dzongs in Bhutan
Here are some of the most well-known Dzong in Bhutan that you must visit during the Bhutan package tour from Bangalore.
Trongsa Dzong
Trongsa Dzong is the most well-known dzong in Bhutan without a doubt. Although it is the biggest stronghold in Bhutan that is not why it is so significant. The Trongsa district, which is in the exact middle of the nation, is where you’ll find Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa Dzong serves as both the nation’s administrative and religious center as a result of its strategic location.
Rinpung Dzong in Paro
Rinpung Dzong in Paro is one of Bhutan’s most illustrious monasteries and educational institutions. The Paro area is regarded as one of the most picturesque in the entire nation and draws tourists and Buddhist scholars from different corners. It is situated on the Paro Chhu River’s banks and is reachable by a tiny bridge. Along with a monastery, the Dzong complex houses the Kagyu School, which is descended from the Drukpa lineage. Additionally, it serves as the official institution for all administrative activities for the Paro district administration. The famous annual festival of Bhutan, The Paro Tshechu, is celebrated in the Paro Dzong.
Punakha Dzong
Bhutan’s Punakha District is home to Punakha Dzong. Due to their position, the dzongs or fortresses have a significant role in Bhutanese culture. It is situated beside two rivers, Mo Chhu and Po Chhu, which are revered by the locals as their mother and father. It ranks as Bhutan’s second-oldest and second-largest Dzong. Until Thimphu became the nation’s capital in 1955, the government’s administrative center was located in Punakha. It served as the monks’ winter abode when they traveled from the country’s northern regions in quest of a milder climate.
Tashichho Dzong
Another historic dzong that reflects Bhutan’s history is the Taschichho Dzong. It is situated on the outskirts of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan beside the Wang Chu River. It is indeed a very big structure in size with lovely surroundings and verdant green valleys. Tashichho Dzong, which translates to “the castle of the wonderful religion” serves as the location of both administrative and religious operations.
Tashichho Dzong, which is close to lakes and mountains, is an example of Buddhist architecture and culture. The building’s white inner walls and wooden exteriors contrast sharply with its intricate decorative woodwork. Government officials are honored in the building’s south section, and a tower on the west is home to a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and other gods and deities. Up until they moved to Dechencholing Palace, it served as the residence of the Bhutanese royal family.
Simtokha Dzong (Sanga Zabdoen Phodrang)
The first dzong built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the greatest dzong builder in Bhutan, was Simtokha Dzong. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal undertook the construction of six dzongs to consolidate his newly acquired territory in western Bhutan and to protect himself from both internal enemies and external enemies. Historically the dzong’s location is very significant. The Dzong’s current location served as a junction for the three important western regions of Sha (Wangduephodrang), Wang (Thimphu), and Pa (Paro). Stones from Punakha, Thimphu, and Paro were used to denote the intersection.
Wangdue Phodrang Dzong
In 1639, the Zhabdrung established Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Three courtyards and three doors made up the Dzong. The first gate serves as the entry, the second goes to the Dzong’s inner sanctuary, and the third opens into the deep innards of this ancient building. The Dzong was burned down severely in 1837 and afterward rebuilt. A violent earthquake that occurred during the reign of Lam Neten Pelden Singye also severely destroyed the Dzong, which was later reconstructed. However, at an unspecified later date, Dzongpon Domchung also appears to have repaired the Dzong. The Dzong underwent renovations under the direction of Dronyer Pema Wangdi during the reign of the Late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. After the Dzong was finished, Zhabdrung personally established the rabidly, which was later extended during the reign of the 10th He Khenpo Tenzin Chogyal. In June 2012, a fire completely destroyed
the 374-year-old Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. The majority of the holy objects, which were transported, were spared since the dzong was undergoing renovation before the fire. The loss has been referred to by acting prime minister Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba as a national tragedy.
Lhuntse Dzong
Lhuntse Dzong, which is situated in the Lhuntse district, is another notable dzong in Bhutan. The main river of the nation, the Kuri Chhi, flows close to this Bhutanese Dzong, which is situated in the Kuri Chhu Valley. This Dzong is situated in a crucial area of the nation because of the valley’s refreshing beauty of the hills and rivers. The Dzong is built on a rocky ridge, giving it a view of the entire valley and access to the picturesque landscapes of the area.
Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong, also known as Jakar Yugyal Dzong, is situated in the strategically important Bumthang area of Bhutan. High mountain ranges and passes can be found in the valley. Jakar Dzong must be reached after a little stroll through the heavily trafficked stone path. This Bhutanese dzong has been crucial for both defense and religious purposes. Despite numerous encounters caused by external enemies, the dzong is still strategically standing high as the nation's pride.
Tips for visiting the Dzongs of Bhutan
· Since the dzongs in Bhutan are sacred places, you must adhere to a certain dress code. It is advised to wear clothing with full sleeves to cover your arms and a full skirt to cover your legs.
· Always make a clockwise round around the watchtower.
· Although it is not necessary to take off your shoes to enter the dzong, there are a few courtyards and rooms where you must do so.
· In some places, photography is not allowed. Before using your camera, make sure to inquire or read the notification.
· Dzongs in Bhutan are a source of pride for the populace due to the country’s strong Buddhist culture. Your Bhutan Package Tour would be incomplete without seeing and experiencing the calm and culture at the dzongs because it is such an important symbol for the people of the country.
So, when you are on your Bhutan package tour from Bangalore, don’t forget to explore this wonderful masterpiece of Bhutan. In fact, Dzongs in Bhutan are amazing. So, travel to Bhutan, along with its unadulterated well preserved natural treasures, manmade marvels like Dzongs, Mesumes, Bridges, Libraries, and Palaces, etc. Don’t let a single stone unturned during your Bhutan tour package from Bangalore. Bhutan in every nook and corner is mesmerizing and stunning.