|
The cultural tour takes
place in major heritage sites across the
country from the scenic mountains of the Paro Valley to the distant village of
Lhuntse. These heritage sites include the
giant fortresses, royal palaces and other
significant architectural monuments in
relation to the history of the monarchy.
Hundreds of Buddhist temples, monasteries
and stupas are found scattered atop rocky
cliffs, on remote hillsides, on uneven
enclosures and on every possible regions
indicating that in Bhutan, Buddhism is
flourishing in its ever youthful state.
The Dzongs (fortresses) earmark the
strategic points and hold a high degree of
magnificence. They serve as the seat for the
government as well as a haven for the
clergy. These Dzongs boast of the age old
articles that belonged to the Shabdrung, the
venerable teachers, the first king’s father,
and the other leaders who have spent a
portion of their lives there. Beyond any
doubt the size, design and position of the
Dzongs make them the most impressive. The
imposing watch towers stand prominently atop
hills and knolls and are of great
significance to the history of conquest over
numerous battles fought in the past. They
are the most aesthetic and magnificent works
of traditional Bhutanese architecture.
The unique Bhutanese architecture is
validated in all the buildings considering
that it is one of the most striking features
of the country, besides the rich cultural
heritage and definitive symbols that embody
Bhutan’s distinctive quality. Besides the
striking presence of the Dzongs, there are
palaces of the royal family scattered all
over the country. These palaces were built
mainly to serve as winter and summer
residences to overcome the harsh weather
conditions. The seasonal migration of the
royal entourage was a regular affair. The
perpetual royal anecdotes of the palaces
lead us through a passage of medieval
Bhutan, and to the places where monarchy
originated and succeeded to the present
epoch of triumph and welfare.
The traditional architectural buildings are
national heritage sites for the country, and
are significant to the country’s history. |
