Rinpung Dzong

Rinpung Dzong in Paro is one of the most remarkable places I have visited in Bhutan. The dzong, whose name means “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,” truly lives up to its name. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Paro Valley, the fortress is not just an architectural masterpiece but also a significant cultural and spiritual center. Walking across the traditional wooden cantilever bridge to reach the dzong feels like stepping back in time. The massive whitewashed walls, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful courtyards are incredibly well-preserved and showcase Bhutan’s unique architectural style. Inside, the atmosphere is serene, with monks chanting and visitors respectfully exploring the temples and shrines. Highlights include the Temple of the Guru’s Eight Manifestations and several other important chapels filled with historic paintings and statues. The views from the dzong over the Paro Valley are breathtaking, especially around sunset. If you visit during the Paro Tsechu festival, the entire dzong comes alive with colorful mask dances and traditional ceremonies — a truly unforgettable cultural experience. Rinpung Dzong is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a living monument that plays an important role in Bhutanese daily life. I highly recommend making time to visit and experience its beauty and spiritual energy for yourself.

This large dzong is definitely one of the highlights of Paro (and probably Bhutan as a whole). Although it isn't one of those slender dzongs straddling a mountain ridge with sheer cliffs and huge drop-offs on each side, it is beautiful in it's own way. There are great photo opportunities to be had, especially from the other side of the river. It also was an extremely lively dzong. I saw at least 50 monks in the dzong, some of them preparing choreographed dances for an upcoming festival. It was a nice change from some of the quieter dzongs that felt like there was no energy there. If you come to Paro, this is definitely a must visit. Highly recommended.

Paro Dzong is one of the most iconic and beautiful sites in Bhutan, especially during its annual festival, which is famous not only in Bhutan but also abroad. The atmosphere during the festival is truly special — even the King attends on one of the days. Locals come dressed in their finest traditional clothing, many of which are made from silk and take between 1 to 3 years of intricate handwork to complete. It’s an unforgettable cultural experience that offers a deep look into Bhutanese heritage and pride.

Huge and fascinating with wooden painted structures demonstrating the dual governance of Bhutan from the 17th century. Lovely old temple inside you can go and visit as well.

I visited Rinpung Dzong during the Paro Tshechu and it was such a special experience. The dzong itself is impressive—massive white walls, traditional wooden architecture, and great views over the valley—but what really brought it to life was the atmosphere during the festival. Locals in traditional dress, monks performing mask dances, families picnicking in the courtyards… it felt like the whole community was here. If you can, try to visit during the festival—it’s the best way to experience the place. Otherwise, it’s still a beautiful and peaceful spot to walk around.

Also known as Paro Dzong, is a large Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress of the glorious the kagyu school in Paro District l. Houses the district monastic body as well as government administrative offices of Paro District. While we were there, we get to witnesses the last rehearsal to celebrate Paro Tshechu, a vibrant 5 day religious festival in the Paro valley, featuring masked dances sacred rituals.

Our guide wanted us to skip this dzong as we had been to the one in Punakha. There is no entry fee to this dzong so unless you have a time crunch do not miss this at any cost. A quaint wooden bridge on the paro river connects the road to the dzong. There are beautiful paintings on the wall when you enter and unlike other dzongs you can click pictures of them. The wooden interior and vast courtyards as really enticing. There are two temples inside that you can visit but no photos allowed inside them.

An architectural marvel.. one of the most beautiful and iconic heritage sites we visited in Bhutan. Unfortunately, a visit to Paro Dzong is skipped by many tourists since they invariably cover Punakha Dzong, which is considered the best Dzong in Bhutan. It was not a part of our group tour's itinerary as well. However, I and my wife were determined to visit it. We hired a cab, which dropped us right at the entrance to the Dzong... and there we were... simply awestruck to see this incredibly magnificent complex reflecting the perfect blend of Bhutanese architecture and culture. Also known as Paro Dzong, it is not as big as Punakha Dzong, but it has its own distinct beauty and architecture and appears to have retained its original form. The Dzong is perched on a sloping hill, offering a stunningly beautiful view of Paro town. CAUTION for elderly people: The entrance to the Dzong, from the upper level parking, is around 40 steps down, which you need to take up when you exit. In addition, within the complex as well, there are different levels involving some more steps. I and my wife, both senior citizens, managed to climb up/ down the steps comfortably. However, it could be a bit challenging for some elderly persons A visit to this great heritage site is highly recommended.