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In the 1600s, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a lama of Tibetan decent, journeyed to Bhutan following a vision. At that time valley lords ruled Bhutan. Shabdrung sought to unify the country and set about building dzongs that were constructed as fortresses for the people and residences for the Buddhist monks. Today many of the Bhutanese governmental offices are located in THIMPHU Dzong.
Most dzongs continue to be homes to Buddhist monks, who might begin monastic life as young as seven years of age. These majestic edifices are included in most tours, but you may want to do some research on Buddhist art ahead of time to enjoy the experience that much more. |
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