Paro Rinpung Dzong, or Rinchen Pung Dzong, literally means “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels.” It is a major fortress-monastery located in the heart of Paro Valley, Bhutan. The site has a long history, with legends saying that in the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava visited here and named the cliff “Rinpung Drak,” or “the cliff of the heap of jewels.”

The current structure was built in 1644 by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Zhabdrung Rinpoche and unifier of Bhutan. He dismantled the older fortress and constructed a larger, stronger stone fortress to defend the valley against Tibetan invasions. The dzong was completed and consecrated in 1646.

During the 17th–18th centuries, the dzong played a key role as a defensive stronghold for Paro Valley against repeated invasions. Today, it remains a functioning site, serving as both the administrative center of Paro and a major monastic body with over 200 resident monks. It is also listed on Bhutan’s UNESCO Tentative List for potential World Heritage inscription.

Architecture:
Rinchen Pung Dzong is a prime example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, built without nails. The tall, inward-sloping walls are made of brick and stone and painted white, contrasting with the dark woodwork.

• Central Tower (Utse): Five stories high, housing the main temples and shrines

• Woodwork and Murals: Intricately carved wood and exquisitely painted murals, representing top-tier Bhutanese craftsmanship

• Courtyards: Multiple wide courtyards used for religious ceremonies and festivals, with the largest hosting the annual Paro Tshechu Festival

Things to See:

• Nyamai Zam Bridge: Traditional cantilever wooden bridge over the Paro River, a popular viewpoint and photography spot

• Courtyards and Temples: Explore murals and statues conveying Buddhist teachings and Bhutanese history

• Panoramic Views: Stunning vistas of Paro Valley, surrounding mountains, and the river below

• Paro Tshechu Festival: Held in March–April, featuring monks’ mask dances and the final day unveiling of the massive sacred thangka (Thondrol)

• Film Location: The dzong served as a filming site for the 1993 movie Little Buddha directed by Bernardo Bertolucci

Rinchen Pung Dzong is located in central Paro Town and can be accessed by road from Paro International Airport, which is a 10–15 minute drive. Visitors arriving from Thimphu can reach Paro by car in approximately 1.5–2 hours. The dzong is centrally located, so it is walkable from many hotels in Paro Town.

• Dress modestly and respectfully, as the dzong is an active religious site.

• Check whether your tour package includes entrance fees to avoid duplication.

• Visit during the Paro Tshechu Festival for a culturally immersive experience, but expect large crowds.

• Carry a camera for panoramic shots from the hilltop and bridge.

• Verify opening hours on the day of visit, as religious events may affect access.

Admission Fee:

• Foreign adults: Nu. 1,000

• Children under 18: 50% discount (Nu. 500)

• Children under 5: Free

• Fees may sometimes be included in tour packages or entry permits.

Opening Time:

• Generally 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, though times may vary during festivals or religious ceremonies.