Paro Rinpung Dzong

 

Rinpung Dzong, originally known as Rinchen Pung Dzong (The Fortress on a Heap of Jewels) and sometimes referred to as Paro Dzong is a Buddhist Monastery and fortress of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school in Paro District. It houses the district Monastic Body as well as government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag. 

In the 17th century, his descendants, the lords of Hungrel, offered this fortress to the Drukpa hierarch, Ngawang Namgyal, the Zhabdrung Rinpoche, in recognition of his religious and temporal authority. In 1644, the Zhabdrung dismantled the existing dzong and laid a foundation of a new dzong. In 1646, the dzong was reconsecrated and established as the administrative and monastic centre of the western region and it became known as Rinpung Dzong. 

Dzongs have historical, administrative and religious significances, and tourism and cultural values in the country. It is important for every Bhutanese citizens to know why dzongs are important and how these were built. 

In the past, dzongs served defenses from invasions from the British-India in the south and Tibet from the north. Aside from serving as military bases to protect the country from invaders, dzongs housed the administrative and monastic bodies. Also, their open courtyard serves as a place for gathering and festival celebrations. Today, it houses the government offices. Dzongs became an essential part of promoting the cultural development of the country. It is one of the richest and attractive sites for tourists with the majestic structures.