Jakar Dzong
བྱ་དཀར་རྫོང
The 'White Bird Fortress' on the western ridge of Jakar town, seat of Bumthang's district administration and monastic community, overlooking the whole Chokhor Valley.
Jakar Dzong was first built in the 16th century and expanded in 1667. Legend says a white bird landed on the ridge when the site was chosen, hence the name 'White Bird Fortress.' The dzong's outer walls measure about 1.5 km around, and its utse tower stands about 50 m tall, making it one of Bhutan's largest dzongs. The courtyard can be visited, but some halls are closed to the public. Dress in long sleeves and formal wear. Bhutanese rules require visitors to be accompanied by a licensed guide. It's about a 15-minute uphill walk from the town center, and the light is at its most beautiful in the evening.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–17:00 on working days
Nearby sights
- Wangdicholing Palace
- Jakar Town
- Swiss Farm Bumthang
- Lhodrak Kharchu Monastery
- Jambay Lhakhang
- Konchogsum Lhakhang
- Chumey Valley & Prakhar Lhakhang
- Tamshing Lhakhang