Drukgyel Dzong, meaning “Fortress of the Victorious Bhutanese,” is a historic fortress that stands in magnificent ruins in the upper Paro Valley. It was built in 1649 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over an invading Tibetan army. The dzong strategically controlled the route to Tibet, serving as an important defensive structure and a symbol of Bhutanese sovereignty for centuries.

Though largely destroyed by a fire in 1951, the majestic ruins of Drukgyel Dzong still evoke its past glory and historical significance. A project is currently underway to restore and rebuild the dzong to its former grandeur. Even in its ruined state, the site offers a powerful sense of history, and on clear days, visitors can get a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari, Bhutan’s sacred peak, from its vantage point.