Overview:

Tashichho Dzong is a large Buddhist monastery and fortress situated in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. It is also the seat of the Druk Desi (religious and civil leader) and the central monastic body of Bhutan. Built-in 1641, the dzong is an architectural marvel, home to many of the country's ancient artifacts. It contains several large temples, numerous chapels, and much of the country's spiritual and political history. The dzong is open to the public, although visitors must adhere to the local customs and respect the monastery’s traditional dress code. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

1. Colorful Tibetan-Style Architecture: Tashichho Dzong is famous for its colorful traditional Tibetan-style architecture. The building is highly influenced by Indian and Tibetan styles, and features sloping walls, bright colors, and ornate rooms. 2. History of Power in Bhutan: Tashichho Dzong has long been a symbol of power in Bhutan, dating back centuries. It serves as the seat of the government for both the Bhutanese Monarchy and the Buddhist faith. 3. Historical Treasures: Inside the Dzong there are many historical artifacts that have been preserved, such as ancient paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, and weaponry. 4. Garden and Pavilion: The Dzong has a beautiful garden and pavilion, which offer stunning views of the surrounding valley. This is a popular spot among tourists. 5. Summer and Winter Festivals: Tashichho Dzong hosts several summer and winter festivals, which draw tourists from around the world. These festivals are a great way to experience Bhutanese culture and tradition. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Tashichho Dzong, located in Thimphu, Bhutan, is one of the most important and iconic Bhutanese buildings. It is a Buddhist monastery and fortress of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The name “Tashichho” translates as “the Fortress of the Glorious Religion”. The construction of the building began in 1216 under the direction of the fourth Drukpa hierarch, Ngawang Choegyel, who chose the site precisely for its prominence on the banks of the river Wang Chu. The construction was sponsored by the ruler of Paro, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye. Tashichho Dzong was renovated by the Fourth and Fifth Drukpa hierarchs, Tenzin Rabgye and the Fifth Dalai Lama, in the 1640`s. The rectangular building is two stories tall with four entrances facing the cardinal directions. There are several chapels and shrines in the main courtyard, and the structure also houses government offices, the King`s Throne Room, and the National Assembly Hall. Since its founding, Tashichho Dzong has served as the administrative and religious center for the country. The seventh king of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, moved his offices to Tashichho Dzong and declared it the country’s new capital in 1974. Tashichho Dzong has suffered several fires over the centuries, and the structure has been extensively renovated by a series of kings and religious leaders. The most recent reconstruction was sponsored by the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in the late 1980s. Today, the fortress continues to serve as the administrative center of the country, and it is a popular tourist destination in Bhutan. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Tashichho Dzong, also known as the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion” is a large Buddhist monastery and fortress in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. 2. It is a prominent landmark in the city, and overlooks the current kingdom's centre of government. 3. Tashichho Dzong was built in 1641 as the palace of Lama Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan. 4. Later it was turned into a fortress-monastery and became the seat of both the Druk Desi (the Supreme Head of the State of Bhutan) and the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). 5. In addition to religious functions, the Dzong was also the original seat of government before it was relocated in 1955 to the present capital city of Thimphu. 6. The Dzong fountain (Chorten Lam) is an impressive sight upon entrance to the Dzong, as it contains 108 religious bowls (termed Kora) and six large vases which represent the six perfections of teachings of the Buddhist faith. 7. Every year in late September-early October, at the end of the summer monsoon and the beginning of the growing season, the Tashichho Dzong is host to the annual Thimpu Festival. 8. The Tashichho Dzong is the only museum in Bhutan where you can find ancient weapons, historical texts, manuscripts, and other artefacts. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.