Architecture

The castle-like dzongs with gently tapering walls, classic lines, large courtyards and beautiful galleries are among the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. Containing large monasteries, these impressive buildings, set in commanding positions on hilltops or at the confluence of rivers, are also the administrative centers of their regions. Small fortresses called Ta dzongs (literally meaning watchtowers) overlook the main buildings and were built for defense.

The most common architectural sight in Bhutan, however, its not these majestic buildings, but chortens or stupas, which are small shrines built originally to house sacred relics.