Perched on the upper valleys of the Paro district, the imposing ruins of Drukgyal dzong stands testimony to Bhutan’s resilience and valour in the face of the adversary. Strategically constructed near the border with Tibet, the main aim of building Drukgyel Dzong was to defend the borders in case of future invasions. Though a fire caused damage to this important defence base in 1951, the ruins seem well-preserved even today. The well-preserved ruins are not only fascinating to tour but also quite self-explanatory, an additional impetus for history enthusiasts looking to observe and savour every nook and corner of the place. The ruins of the fortress will take you back in time as you hear the enthralling stories of this historical gem of Bhutan.
Drukgyel Dzong History
This historic fortress was built by the then-ruler of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, 1649 to celebrate his victory against the Tibetan invasion. The name of the fortress “Drukgyel Dzong” means “the Fortress of the Victorious Drukpa”. The dzong was ideally located in the upper valleys of Paro, where it served as an outpost for the Bhutanese Army to guard the access point in Northern Bhutan from the Tibetian army. The Drukgyel Dzong was a busy place as the soldiers and the monks used to live together. The Fortress played an important role in Bhutanese independence for centuries and witnessed many battles and victories.
Must Read: Things To Do In Paro
Drukgyel Dzong Architecture
The mesmerizing architecture of the Drukgyel Dzong Architecture glorifies the traditional Bhutanese style of Architecture, renowned for its intricate wood carvings and paintings on the wall. Before the utter damage it faced by the fire, the fortress displayed the testament of the artisanship of the Bhutanese architects. The fortress windows were strategically built narrowly to track enemy actions near Dzong. Once you enter the fortress, you can find the main attraction of the fortress, which is a rectangular-shaped stone building. There is a false entry gate in the Dzong that was used to trick the enemies and draw them into a courtyard for a second attack.
Attractions Near Drukgyel Dzong
After you visit Drukgyel Dzong, you can explore the nearby attractions. Paro, located in the western part of the capital of Bhutan, offers access to mesmerizing landscapes, the pristine Paro Chuu River, and monasteries. Below is a list of must-visit attractions in Paro to enthral your vacation.
1. Paro Taktsang
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Perched on the cliffs of Paro, the Taktsang monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, is a famous tourist attraction in Bhutan. Owing to its spiritual significance and the scenic vistas, tourists from all over the world make it a point to visit this captivating architectural site. The monastery comprises four main temples along with several white buildings. Once you enter the Paro Taktsang you will be awestruck by the intricate paintings on the walls of the holy figure Padmasambhava. The hike to the Paro Taktsang takes 3-4 hours, or you can ride a horse. On your way to the monastery, you will walk by a majestic waterfall and colourful prayer flags.
Distance from Drukgyel Dzong: 9.4 kilometres
Timings: 08:00 A.M. to 04:00 P.M.
Entry Fee: 2000 Nu
Suggested Read: Bhutan Travel Tips
2. Rinpung Dzong
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Rested on the hill above Paro Valley, Ringpung Dzong is a famous tourist attraction near Drukgyel Dzong. The Rinpung Dzong offers tourists the best picturesque scenery of the verdant valleys surrounding the Dzong. The Rinpung Dzong is known for its architectural brilliance. Unlike other Dzongs in Bhutan, the Rinpung Dzong is the biggest in Bhutan, preserving ancient Buddhist artefacts and shrines. The main attraction of the Dzong is the watchtower, which has wooden carvings. The Dzong consists of 14 shrines and chapels dedicated to god figures. The Ringpung Dzong hosts an annual festival known as Paro Tsechu, which makes it more splendid.
Distance from Drukgyel Dzong: 16.5 kilometres
Timings: 09:00 A.M. to 05:00 P.M.
Entry Fee: Free
3. Kyichu Lakhang
Paro City is known for its splendid monasteries, which preserve Bhutan’s cultural heritage, including Kyichu Lakhang. This historic monastery is situated in Lango Gewog and is considered one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan. Legends used to believe that the temple was built in one day. A visit to the Kyichu Lakhang will give an insight into life in the Himalayan Kingdom. The Kyichu Lakhang is a perfect place for history enthusiasts. Once you enter the inner hall of Kyichu Lakhang, you can see the 7th-century statue of Jowo Sakayumi, the pride of Bhutan. The main attraction of the monastery is the statue of Chenrezig.
Distance from Drukgyel Dzong: 10.8 kilometres
Timings: 09:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M; 01:00 P.M. to 05:00 P.M.
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Bhutan
4. National Museum Of Bhutan
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
If you are in Paro, Bhutan, and are keen to learn about its history, the National Museum of Bhutan is the perfect place. Perched above the Rinpung Dzong, the Bhutanese soldiers used it as a watchtower in 1649 to keep an eye on their enemies. Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, the third king of Bhutan, decided to rebuild the watchtower and turn it into a museum. Each of the museum’s six floors depicts a unique story of ancient times. The museum’s main attraction is the egg of a mule, which astonishes every tourist. You can also find a photo that displays this miracle of nature.
Distance from Drukgyel Dzong: 10.8 kilometres
Timings: Summers: 09:00 A.M. to 05:00 P.M; Winters: 09:00 A.M. to 04:00 P.M.
Entry Fee: NA
5. Zuri Dzong
Image Credit: Christopher Michel for Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the verdant valleys of Paro, Zuri Dzong is one of the oldest and most significant Dzongs in Bhutan, dating back to the 12th Century. It is believed that in the 8th century, Lord Buddha meditated in caves near Dzong. Besides being culturally significant, the Zuri Dzong offers a splendid view of the verdant Paro valley. Are you a hiking enthusiast? Then a 1.9-kilometer hike to Zuri Dzong will surely give you an adrenaline rush. Talking of its architecture, the Zuri Dzong is well-protected by double walls. For extra protection, a bridge was constructed. Once you enter the Dzong, you will see a collection of murals. This Dzong is a must-visit place and should be included in your Bhutan itinerary.
Distance from Drukgyel Dzong: 18.2 kilometres
Timings: 09:00 A.M. to 05:00 P.M
Entry Fee: Free
Further Read: Architecture In Bhutan
Paro is a must-visit place for tourists in Bhutan. It is known for its verdant valleys, hiking spots, and numerous Buddhist monasteries that preserve Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The Drukgyel Dzong is a must-visit place on your trip to Paro itinerary. Book your tickets to Paro to explore the historical monuments, indulge in the adventurous trek, and revel in the magnificent surrounding views.
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Cover Image credit : By Christopher J. Fynn for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drukgyel Dzong
What is the Importance of Drukgyel Dzong?
The Drukgyel Dzong was strategically built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1649 and it served as a fortress for the soldiers to watch their enemies' action near the Dzong.
What is the largest Dzong in Bhutan?
The largest Dzong in Bhutan is the Trongsa Dzong situated in the Trongsa District of Bhutan.
How to reach Drukgyel Dzong?
The Drukgyel Dzong is located near the famous attractions of Paro such as the Paro Taktsang, you can hire a car from there that will hardly take 25 minutes to reach Drukgyel Dzong.
What is the oldest Dzong in Bhutan?
The Simtoka Dzong is one of the oldest Dzong in Bhutan. Built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1629, you must visit this Dzong on your trip to Bhutan.
Which is the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan?
Situated in Western Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong is considered one of the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan owing to its architectural brilliance.
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