Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong, also known as Thimphu Dzong, is a historic Buddhist temple in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, and one of the country's governmental and religious centers. It is not only a place for religious ceremonies, but also the seat of important administrative institutions of the Kingdom of Bhutan. It has a rich historical background, deep cultural heritage and breathtaking architecture.

 

 

Historical Background

Dating back to the 12th century, Dzongsar Monastery was originally built by the King of Bhutan to be a center for Buddhist activities and to house Buddhist monks. Over time, the temple was expanded and renovated several times and gradually became the center of religious and cultural gravity in the Thimphu area. Especially in the 20th century, the Dzongsar Monastery became the palace of the King of Bhutan and served as the office of various government departments.

 

This temple is of great religious significance and is one of the places where the kings of Bhutan are enthroned. Every year, the king holds an official Buddhist ceremony at the Dzongsar Monastery. The temple is dedicated to the guardian deities and statues of the Buddha of Bhutan.

 

Architectural Style

 

The architectural style of Dzongsar Monastery is very much in the Bhutanese tradition, blending elements of Bhutanese and Tibetan Buddhist architecture. The temple has a grand exterior with a contrasting color scheme of golden roofs, white walls and red pillars. The halls and courtyards inside the temple are beautifully carved and frescoed, showcasing the traditional Bhutanese art style.

 

The most iconic building of the Dzongsar Monastery is the Grand Gatehouse, with its towering towers, symbolizing the Bhutanese people's reverence for Buddhism and kingship. The temple also has a spectacular lobby and statue of Buddha, giving it a serene and solemn feel.

 

 

Functions and Uses

Dzongsar Monastery is not only a holy place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, but it is also the office of the Bhutanese government. It is the office of the Bhutanese Cabinet, where Bhutanese government business and official functions of the King are often held. In addition, Dzongsar Monastery also hosts important religious events such as the Buddha's Birthday Festival and the Grand Puja every year.

 

In addition to its political and religious functions, the Dzongsar Monastery is also a cultural center that attracts a large number of devotees and tourists to visit, worship and learn.

 

Surrounding Attractions

Apart from visiting the Dzongsar Monastery, one can also take a side trip to visit other attractions in Thimphu such as:

• Thimphu Stupa (Buddha Dordenma): at 51.5 meters high, this statue is one of the largest in the world and is situated on the hillside opposite to the Dzongsar Monastery, offering a panoramic view of Thimphu city.
• Weekend Market: If it falls on a weekend, visit the Thimphu Market to experience the daily life of the locals and buy traditional handicrafts.
• Dochula Pass: Located about 30 minutes from Thimphu, the pass offers some of the most spectacular views of the mountains in Bhutan. It is home to 108 small pagodas and is considered a sacred Buddhist site.

 

Visiting Tips

1. Dress Code: When entering the temple, visitors need to dress appropriately, preferably avoiding shorts and sleeveless clothing. If you are a woman, you may choose clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.Photography
2. Regulations: Photography may be prohibited in certain areas within the Dzongsar Monastery, especially in the inner spaces of the temple. Please observe local regulations.
3. Etiquette: Keep quiet when worshipping, respect local religious customs, and try to avoid disturbing monks or devotees who are engaged in religious activities.

 

When scheduling an itinerary, plan it according to your time in Bhutan, interests and pace of travel. Below is a recommended itinerary of 4 days and 3 nights that will allow you to fully experience the Dzongsar Monastery as well as Thimphu and surrounding attractions. If you have more time, you can also add more attractions or extend your stay as appropriate.

 

Day 1: Arrival in Thimphu

Arrival in Thimphu

Bhutan's main international airport is Paro International Airport. You can either take a cab or book a pick-up service from Paro Airport to Thimphu (about 1 hour drive).

In case of late arrival, it is advisable to first check-in and rest at the hotel.

 

Dinner & Rest

Upon arrival in Thimphu, you can enjoy an authentic Bhutanese dinner. Choose to try the traditional hot and spicy stuffed cheese (Ema Datshi) and rice at a local restaurant or opt for a Bhutanese specialty.

 

Day 2: Explore downtown Thimphu

Thimphu Stupa (Buddha Dordenma)

After breakfast, proceed to Thimphu Stupa, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, located on a hillside overlooking the entire Thimphu city center. This is a great place for photos and meditation.

 

Dzongsar Monastery (Tashichho Dzong)

From the stupa, head to the Dzongsar Monastery a short distance away. Visit this historic Buddhist temple and learn about its religious, political and cultural significance. You can take a walk around the courtyard surrounding the temple to admire the beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. If it's a Buddhist holiday, there may also be special religious ceremonies or events to watch.

 

Thimphu Market (Weekend Market)

If you happen to arrive on a weekend, visit the Thimphu Market, a bustling bazaar where you can see local handicrafts, traditional dresses and food, a great place to experience local life.

 

Dejgaon (Dochula Pass)

If time permits, take an afternoon drive to Derjigang, which offers some of the most spectacular views of the mountains in Bhutan. Climbing up to Derjigang, the view overlooking the Himalayas is one of the iconic beauties of Bhutan. This site is home to 108 small pagodas and is a sacred Buddhist site.

 

Dinner & Rest

For dinner, it is recommended to visit a restaurant that has traditional Bhutanese dishes, where you can try some authentic dishes such as Bhutan's traditional hot and spicy stuffed cheese (Ema Datshi), stone pot dishes and rice.

 

Day 3: Day trip to Paro

Travel to Paro (about 1.5 hours drive)

After breakfast depart Thimphu for Paro, one of the cultural centers of Bhutan and home to the Tiger's Nest Monastery.

 

Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)

Upon arrival in Paro, proceed to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, a temple that sits on the edge of a cliff, giving it a transcendental feel. If you want to visit or experience this attraction for yourself, it is advisable to organize your stamina in advance as the hike from the foot of the mountain to the temple takes 2-3 hours. If you are interested in hiking, you can challenge yourself with this trek.

 

Paro city tour

If time permits, take a stroll around downtown Paro, visit the National Museum of Bhutan to learn about the history and culture of Bhutan or go to Paro Dzong, a typical Bhutanese building.

 

Dinner & Rest

In the evening, you can enjoy dinner at a restaurant in downtown Paro and then return to the hotel for rest.

 

Day 4: Black-necked Crane Sanctuary (optional) or Free Day

Black-necked Crane Sanctuary (Phobjikha Valley)

If you are into natural landscapes and eco-tourism, you can choose to visit the Black Necked Crane Sanctuary, a habitat for the black-necked cranes that roost in Bhutan during the winter. The area is pristine and suitable for nature and wildlife lovers. This tour takes a day and is best organized in advance.

 

Free time and shopping

If you are not planning to visit the Black-necked Crane Sanctuary, you can choose to spend your free time in Thimphu or Paro to buy Bhutanese handicrafts as souvenirs or interact with the locals to learn more about Bhutanese traditions and culture.

 

Return to Paro Airport

Depending on your flight time, you can depart from Paro airport to conclude this Bhutan tour.

 

Tips:

• TRANSPORTATION: Bhutan's public transportation system is not very well developed, so it is best to book local transportation or chartered bus services.
• Clothing: The weather in Bhutan varies a lot, so please prepare suitable clothing according to the season. Even in warmer seasons, the weather in mountainous areas can be cold, so it is best to bring a jacket.
• Altitude Reaction: Although Bhutan is generally high in altitude, the main cities such as Thimphu and Paro are not particularly high. If you plan to travel to higher altitudes (such as the Black-necked Crane Sanctuary or Tiger's Nest Monastery), be aware of altitude sickness.