Wangdue Phodrang Dzong

The Wangdue Phodrang dzong (fortress) was built in 1638 by the Zhabdrung situated on the top of high edge between the Punak Tsang Chhu (river) and the Dang Chhu (river). The place Wangdue in earlier days served as second capital of Bhutan and is a remarkable place in history of Bhutan. It is believed that there was an auspicious sign when Zhabdrung (Tibetan master) searched for these place to build the monastery, four ravens were seen flying away in four cardinal directions.   These represents the spreading of religion all over the nation.

There is an old cantilever bridge connecting to dzong which was built after the completion of construction of dzong. Inorder to safeguard the dzong from natural calamities like floods, a mandala dedicated to Mithugpa (Aksobya) was installed at the base of the bridge’s foundation.

There are 14 temples including Kunrey (assembly hall of monks) in the Wandue Dzong.

The figure of Mahakala(local deity) is carved on a stone slab. The monastery was destroyed by fire on 26 June 2012. It was believed that the fire had been started from electrical short circuit. Though the monastery was badly destroyed, the historical and religious relics were rescued by volunteers and care keepers. The monastery is still under construction.