By the tall cypress trees of the Wangdue district court is this timeless 17th-century temple dedicated to an ancient warrior king. The anteroom has a collection of helmets, knives and shields. Inside are five versions of the local protector deity Radrap, one of whom (Terdak Chenpo) protects the local police, army and royal bodyguards. To the far right is a statue of a local tshomen (water spirit). Roll the chapel dice and the resident monk will read your future.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
7.42 MILES
Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-coloured jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to…
16.22 MILES
This splendid dzong, north of the city on the west bank of the Wang Chhu, dominates the valley, looking out over a cascade of terraced fields. It's…
16.63 MILES
This traditional Bhutanese temple perched like a fortress on a ridge above central Thimphu hums with pilgrim activity. It was established in the 12th…
16.14 MILES
Thimphu's best museum is part of the Royal Textile Academy. It features a stunning display of ancient and modern textiles, and explores the rich…
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14.35 MILES
About 5km south of Thimphu on the old road to Paro and Phuentsholing, the handsomely proportioned Simtokha Dzong was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang…
29.29 MILES
Perched above Paro Dzong is its ta dzong (watchtower), built in 1649 to protect the undefended dzong and renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum…
16.33 MILES
Gangte Goemba enjoys prime real estate, on a forested hill overlooking the green expanse of the entire Phobjikha valley. The extensive complex consists of…
Nearby Western Bhutan attractions
0.14 MILES
When the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong reopens you might find archery competitions at this practice ground.
0.19 MILES
The Wangdue Phodrang Dzong (Wangdi) was founded by the Zhabdrung in 1638 atop a high ridge between the Punak Tsang Chhu and the Dang Chhu, clearly chosen…
0.53 MILES
At the time of research this army base was the location for the Wangdue Phodrang tsechu in October, at least until the dzong is rebuilt.
3.59 MILES
The famous Chimi Lhakhang is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the 15th-century Tibetan magician, saint and exponent of 'crazy wisdom'. It is for him that…
6. Sangchen Dorji Lhendrub Choling Nunnery
4.37 MILES
Above Wolakha on the way to Drolay Goemba is this thriving nunnery, which was financed by the fourth king's father-in-law to serve as a Buddhist college…
7.42 MILES
Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-coloured jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to…
7.86 MILES
At 160m long, this bridge northeast of Punakha Dzong is one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges and it's fun to cross the swaying, prayer-flag-draped…