Simtokha Dzong

Simtokha Dzong Fortress in Bhutan

Simtokha Dzong (Fortress)

The present location where the dzong stands is at the boundary common to three prominent western regions: Sha (Wangduephodrang), Wang (Thimphu) and Pa (Paro).

Legend has it that the site was inhabited by demons therefore Zhabdrung subdued one particular demon and enclosed it in a rock. The dzong was built over this stone thus deriving the name sinmo (demon), do (stomach), and kha (on) – the dzong on top of the demon’s stomach. It was built in 1629.