Dzongs in Bhutan are at the heart of Bhutanese culture, religion and society. Located at strategic locations and built between the 12th and 17th centuries, dzongs served as fortresses. They are massive buildings with inward sloping exterior walls that contribute to the visual impression of their size. Secular education began only 50 years ago so monasteries have traditionally been at the centre of education and cultural preservation in Bhutan. They remain administrative and cultural centres for their districts, as well as having temples and accommodation for monks.
It is inevitable that you see and meet a lot of monks in Bhutan – laughing, dancing, praying, taking it easy, winning at volleyball, carrying toy guns…
