Wangdue Phodrang Dzong

Originally built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1638 at a strategic ridge between the Punatsang Chhu and Dang Chhu river valleys. The dzong was tragically destroyed by fire in June 2012, one of the most devastating cultural losses in modern Bhutanese history. A major reconstruction project has been underway since, meticulously rebuilding the fortress using traditional Bhutanese construction methods without nails or iron, supported by the Royal Government and international donors. The dzong has served as the administrative center of Wangdue Phodrang district since its founding.