Journal · Thimphu
Simtokha Dzong
Begun in 1629, one of the first dzongs Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built. It guards the road into the Thimphu valley.
The story
The Zhabdrung began it in 1629. Its full name, Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang, means the palace of the profound meaning of secret mantra. Rival lama groups and their Tibetan allies attacked it soon after, and it held. The third Desi, Minjur Tenpa, finished its first big renovation in 1670 to 1671.
Look for
About 300 slate carvings of saints and teachers along the outer wall, and a painted mandala on the ceiling of the assembly hall. A school for the Dzongkha language started here in 1961.
Before you go
It is right by the road to Dochula and Punakha, so it is an easy stop on the way out of town.
Sources
Checked October 2026. Where sources disagree, we say so or leave the detail out. Opening times and rules change, so your guide confirms on the day.