Wangdue Phodrang Dzong
- Entry fee
- Nu. 500 per visitor; half for ages 6–18
Highlights
- On a ridge above two rivers, since 1638
- Rebuilt over eight years after the 2012 fire
- Three courtyards laid out along the ridge
Founded by the Zhabdrung in 1638 on a ridge above the Punatsang Chhu and the Dang Chhu, the dzong burned almost completely in June 2012. Rebuilt over eight years, it was consecrated again in November 2022, with its three courtyards laid out along the ridge.
Photo: Kuenzang tobgay1999, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
More to see in Wangdue Phodrang
Wangdue bridge chorten
The small chorten on a stone base beside the road bridge below the dzong marks the old cantilever bridge, built by the Rinchengang mason Drakpa. A mandala in its foundation is said to have saved it when a flood took the bridge. It was repaired in 2022 and reconsecrated in 2023.
Rinchengang village
A 17th-century cluster of earth-walled houses on the hilltop across the river from the dzong, settled by master masons brought in by the Zhabdrung. Since 2025 it is being redeveloped as Drinchengang under a royal initiative, with families moving close by, so check what is open before you walk up.
Tours near Wangdue Phodrang
Wangdue Phodrang isn't on a set tour yet. These tours pass close by, and any of them can include it.
Bhutan Luxury Escape
Bumthang Heartland Journey
Family Bhutan Adventure
Glimpse of Bhutan
Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu
Planning a trip that includes Wangdue Phodrang Dzong?
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