Jakar Dzong, also known as the Fortress of the White Bird, is a Buddhist monastery and fortress located in central Bhutan. The dzong was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of the Bhutanese state. It is one of the most important dzongs in Bhutan, serving as both the administrative centre of the region and as a monastery.
The dzong is situated on a hilltop overlooking the valley of Jakar. It is a large square structure with three main levels. The ground level contains the main temple, which is dedicated to Chenrezig, the Buddha of Compassion. The first level contains the offices of the district administration, while the second level is home to the monks who live and study at the dzong.
The dzong is open to visitors, and there are a number of tour companies that offer day trips from Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Jakar Dzong is a popular destination for both tourists and pilgrims, and it is well worth a visit if you are in Bhutan.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Historical significance of Jakar Dzong you’ll love to know
- Interesting facts about Jakar Dzong
- Planning your fun-packed Trip to Jakar Dzong on a budget
- Transportation to use in Jakar Dzong
- Things to Do & See in Jakar Dzong
- Useful language phrases for small talks in Jakar Dzong
- Where to stay in Jakar Dzong
- Where to dine in Jakar Dzong
- Fabulous shopping in Jakar Dzong
- Safety and security to consider while in Jakar Dzong
- Pros and cons of visiting Jakar Dzong
- Conclusion on vistiting Jakar Dzong
Historical significance of Jakar Dzong you’ll love to know
Situated atop a hill in the Bumthang valley, Jakar Dzong or the “Castle of the White Bird” is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. With its whitewashed walls and imposing structure, the dzong is a sight to behold. But there is more to Jakar Dzong than meets the eye. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about this Bhutanese icon.
1. Jakar Dzong was built in 1646 by the “Divine Madman”, Ngawang Namgyal.
Ngawang Namgyal was a Tibetan lama who fled to Bhutan in the 17th century to escape religious persecution. He is credited with unifying the country and establishing Bhutan’s unique system of government known as the “dual system of religious and secular rule”. Jakar Dzong was built as a fortress to defend against Tibetan invasions.
2. The dzong was named after the white bird that landed on it.
Legend has it that when Ngawang Namgyal was contemplating where to build the dzong, a white bird ( believed to be a raven) landed on a rocky outcrop overlooking the valley. He took this as a sign and decided to build the dzong at that very spot.
3. Jakar Dzong is said to be haunted by a demoness.
According to local legend, a demoness known as Shelging Karpo resides in the dzong. She is said to cause earthquakes and other natural disasters. In order to appease her, a monk known as the “earthquake lama” performs rituals and offerings every year.
4. The dzong was badly damaged by an earthquake in 1897.
In 1897, an earthquake struck the Bumthang valley, causing severe damage to Jakar Dzong. The dzong was rebuilt in the early 20th century and has been restored several times since then.
5. Jakar Dzong is the administrative centre of the Bumthang district.
Jakar Dzong serves as the administrative centre for the Bumthang district. It houses the office of the district governor as well as the district court.
6. The dzong is home to a school of traditional arts and crafts.
The dzong is home to the prestigious Central School of Arts and Crafts, where students from all over Bhutan come to learn the country’s traditional arts and crafts.
7. Jakar Dzong is a popular trekking destination.
Jakar Dzong is a popular trekking destination, with several trails leading up to the dzong. The most popular route is the one that leads from the village of Chamkhar. The trail takes about two hours to complete and offers stunning views of the Bumthang valley.
8. Jakar Dzong is one of the most photographed landmarks in Bhutan.
Jakar Dzong is one of the most photographed landmarks in Bhutan. It is often featured on postcards and in travel brochures.
9. The dzong is open to visitors during the day.
The dzong is open to visitors during the day, but only the courtyards and outer buildings are accessible. The inner sanctum of the dzong is off-limits to tourists.
10. Jakar Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s rich culture and history.
Jakar Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s rich culture and history. It is one of the most important landmarks in the country and a must-visit for anyone interested in Bhutanese culture.
Interesting facts about Jakar Dzong
If you are looking for an interesting place to travel to, you should consider Jakar Dzong in Bhutan. Located in the central part of the country, this ancient fortress is one of the most important historical sites in Bhutan. Here are some interesting facts about Jakar Dzong that you should know before you visit:
1. Jakar Dzong was built in the 16th century by the great Tibetan lama, Ngawang Namgyal.
2. It is one of the largest dzongs in Bhutan, with a length of over 300 meters and a width of 150 meters.
3. Jakar Dzong is home to a large number of historical artifacts and paintings.
4. The dzong is also home to a large bell, which is rung to signal the start of religious ceremonies.
5. Jakar Dzong is a popular tourist destination, and you can often find tourists climbing the stairs to the top of the fortress to get a better view of the surrounding area.
Planning your fun-packed Trip to Jakar Dzong on a budget
Jakar Dzong is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bhutan. It is also one of the most affordable places to visit in Bhutan. Here are some tips on how to plan your fun-packed Jakar Dzong, Bhutan on a budget:
1. Travel during the off-peak season: The peak season for Jakar Dzong is from March to May and September to November. The prices of accommodation and transportation are significantly higher during these months. If you are on a tight budget, consider travelling during the off-peak season from December to February.
2. Stay in a guesthouse: Jakar Dzong has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Guesthouses are a great option if you are on a tight budget as they are significantly cheaper than hotels.
3. Take public transportation: Jakar Dzong is well-connected by public transportation. You can take a bus or a taxi to reach Jakar Dzong from Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
4. Walk: Jakar Dzong is a small town and it is very easy to get around on foot. Walking is a great way to explore the town and it is also a great way to save money on transportation.
5. Eat local food: There are many restaurants in Jakar Dzong that serve Bhutanese food. Bhutanese food is very tasty and it is very affordable.
6. Visit the local market: The local market is a great place to buy souvenirs and it is also a great place to eat local food.
7. Haggle: Haggling is a common practice in Bhutan and it is a great way to save money.
8. Travel in a group: Travelling in a group is a great way to save money on accommodation and transportation.
9. Use a travel agent: A travel agent can help you to find the best deals on accommodation and transportation.
10. Get a Bhutanese visa: A Bhutanese visa is required for all foreigners travelling to Bhutan.
Transportation to use in Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. It is located in the central part of the country and is a great place to visit for its stunning views and rich culture. There are a number of ways to get to Jakar Dzong, but the most popular and convenient option is to use public transportation.
The best way to get to Jakar Dzong is by using the Bhutanese public bus system. There are two main types of buses in Bhutan, local buses and express buses. Local buses are less expensive and take a longer time to get to Jakar Dzong, but they are the best option for budget travellers. Express buses are more expensive but they take less time to get to Jakar Dzong.
If you are travelling from India, there are a few options for getting to Jakar Dzong. You can take a bus from Delhi to Siliguri and then take a local bus or an express bus from Siliguri to Jakar Dzong. You can also take a train from Delhi to Kolkata and then take a bus or flight from Kolkata to Bhutan.
Once you arrive in Jakar Dzong, there are a number of transportation options to get around. You can walk, take a bus, or rent a bicycle. Jakar Dzong is a small town so it is easy to get around by foot. If you want to explore the surrounding area, you can take a bus to one of the nearby villages. There are also a number of bicycle rental shops in Jakar Dzong.
Things to Do & See in Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong is one of the most beautiful and historic dzongs in Bhutan. It is located in the Bumthang Valley and was built in the 16th century. The dzong is a large fortress that was used to defend the valley against invasions. It is now a monastery and school.
There are many things to see and do in Jakar Dzong. The dzong itself is a beautiful structure with many intricate details. The views from the dzong are incredible, especially of the valley below. You can also visit the monastery and see the monks in their daily life.
If you are interested in history, there are many old temples and ruins to explore in Jakar Dzong. The Bumthang Valley is a very important historical region of Bhutan. Many of the country’s important events took place here.
There are also many hiking and trekking trails in the area. The Bumthang Valley is a great place to explore on foot. There are several lakes in the valley that are popular for fishing and swimming.
Jakar Dzong is a great place to visit for a day or two. There is so much to see and do. It is a place that has something for everyone.
Useful language phrases for small talks in Jakar Dzong
If you’re travelling to Jakar Dzong in Bhutan, it’s useful to know some key phrases to help you make small talk with the locals. Here are some helpful phrases to get you started:
Phrases for greeting people:
Hello – Kuzuzangpo
Good morning – Tashi delek
Good afternoon – Kuzuzangpo
Good evening – Kuzuzangpo
How are you? – Ka kuzu zang po?
I’m fine, thank you. – Nam ku zang po
And you? – Le tshe?
Phrases for making conversation:
What’s your name? – Tashi delek?
My name is _____ . – Nam nyi _____
Where are you from? – Khethang tsawo la?
I’m from _____ . – Nam _____ tsawo
Do you speak English? – _____ pang English phi?
I don’t speak _____ . – Nam mi _____ phi
I’m sorry, I don’t understand. – Pardon, nga la mi _____
Please speak slowly. – _____ trashi chu
Yes – Nga
No – Mi
Maybe – Tashi kor
Thank you – Kuzuzangpo
You’re welcome. – Tashi delek
Where to stay in Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. It is located in the central part of the country and is known for its beautiful temples and monasteries. There are many hotels and resorts in Jakar Dzong, but it can be tricky to know where to stay. Here are some tips to help you choose the right accommodation for your trip.
If you are looking for a luxury hotel, the Uma Paro is a great option. This hotel is located in a beautiful setting and offers stunning views of the valley below. It is also within walking distance of the Jakar Dzong temple.
For a more affordable option, the Yangkhil Resort is a good choice. This resort is located just outside of Jakar Dzong and offers simple, but comfortable rooms. It is also a great option if you are looking for somewhere to stay that is close to the hiking trails.
If you are looking for a more traditional Bhutanese experience, then the Namgay Heritage Hotel is the perfect option. This hotel is located in the heart of Jakar Dzong and offers guests the chance to stay in traditional Bhutanese style accommodation.
Whatever type of accommodation you are looking for, Jakar Dzong has something to suit everyone. With its beautiful temples, monasteries and stunning scenery, it is no wonder that this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan.
Where to dine in Jakar Dzong
If you’re looking for a delicious meal while traveling in Jakar Dzong, Bhutan, look no further than these five amazing restaurants!
1. Dawa’s Kitchen: Dawa’s Kitchen is a great option for those looking for traditional Bhutanese cuisine. The restaurant is run by a local family, and the food is cooked fresh to order. Be sure to try the national dish of ema datshi, a stew made with chili peppers and cheese.
2. Yangphel Restaurant: Yangphel Restaurant is a great choice for Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the food is absolutely delicious. Be sure to try the momos, Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
3. yak Restaurant: yak Restaurant is a great option for those looking for Western food. The menu features a variety of burgers, pizzas, and pastas, as well as Bhutanese favorites like ema datshi.
4. Cafe De Tashi Delek: Cafe De Tashi Delek is a great choice for coffee and pastries. The cafe has a relaxed atmosphere, and the coffee is some of the best in Bhutan. Be sure to try the Bhutanese doughnuts, which are fried and dipped in sugar.
5. Restaurant Druk: Restaurant Druk is a great choice for fine dining. The menu features a variety of Bhutanese and international dishes, and the restaurant has a beautiful view of Jakar Dzong. Be sure to try the Bhutanese red rice, which is a local specialty.
Fabulous shopping in Jakar Dzong
If you are looking for an amazing shopping experience in Bhutan, then you must visit Jakar Dzong. Jakar Dzong is located in the central part of Bhutan and is one of the largest dzongs in the country. It is also known as the “Fortress of the White Bird” because of the white bird that is said to have landed on the dzong when it was first built.
The dzong is home to many shops and stalls selling a variety of items such as clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, and more. You can even find some unique items that you won’t find anywhere else in Bhutan. The prices are also very reasonable, so you can definitely find some great deals here.
If you are looking for a place to relax and take a break from all the shopping, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Jakar Dzong. You can also find a few hotels here, so you can stay for a few days and really explore the area.
Overall, Jakar Dzong is a great place to shop for souvenirs and other items. You can find some great deals and unique items that you won’t find anywhere else. If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, be sure to include Jakar Dzong on your itinerary.
Safety and security to consider while in Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. Situated in the heart of the country, Jakar Dzong is a beautiful fortress that was built in the 17th century. The dzong is now a museum and is a popular spot for tourists to visit.
When travelling to Jakar Dzong, there are a few safety and security considerations to keep in mind. First, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Jakar Dzong is located in a remote area and there is limited cell phone coverage. If you are hiking or trekking in the area, be sure to let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Second, be cautious of your belongings. Jakar Dzong is a busy tourist spot and pickpockets are known to operate in the area. Keep your valuables close to your body and be aware of your surroundings.
Finally, Jakar Dzong is located at a high altitude. If you are not used to high altitudes, be sure to take it easy and drink plenty of water. Altitude sickness is a real concern in Jakar Dzong and can be very dangerous if not treated properly.
By following these simple safety tips, you can ensure that your visit to Jakar Dzong is enjoyable and safe.
Pros and cons of visiting Jakar Dzong
Jakar Dzong is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. Situated in the central part of the country, Jakar Dzong is a large fortress that was built in the 17th century. The dzong is now a Buddhist monastery and is home to around 200 monks.
Jakar Dzong is a popular destination for tourists because of its beautiful architecture and stunning views. The dzong is situated on a hilltop and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is also home to some of the best Bhutanese art and sculptures.
However, there are also some drawbacks to visiting Jakar Dzong. Firstly, the dzong is located in a remote part of Bhutan and it can be difficult to get to. There are no direct flights to Jakar Dzong from most major cities and the nearest airport is over two hours away. Secondly, the dzong is only open to visitors during certain times of the year.
If you are planning on visiting Jakar Dzong, it is important to do your research in advance and to be prepared for a long journey. However, the experience is definitely worth it and you will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in Bhutan.
Conclusion on vistiting Jakar Dzong
After an exciting and eventful day of exploring Jakar Dzong in Bhutan, it is time to say goodbye to this beautiful country. We have enjoyed our time here and have gained a greater appreciation for the culture, history, and natural beauty of Bhutan. While it is sad to leave, we are grateful for the experiences we have had and the memories we will take with us.
We would like to thank the staff at Jakar Dzong for their hospitality and for sharing their knowledge with us. We would also like to thank the people of Bhutan for their warmth and friendliness. We hope to visit again soon and to continue to explore all that this amazing country has to offer.