Zuri Dzong — Local services in Paro District

In the 6th Rabjung, Yung Toen Dorji, the disciple of Zuri Jampa Singye, who had super natural powers, came to Paro. He established his Goenpa at a place called Namthong Karpo and blessed it and had a number of disciples. While he was in the monastery he brought in a self-embossed statue of Chanag Dorji and also built a Chorten with sandal wood.

In 2230 years, after Lord Buddha’s death or in 1352 during the 326th Rabjung, he converted the temple’s name to Zuri Lhakhang after the death of his master, Zuri Jampa Singye.

The Lhakhang was earlier known as Namthang karpo and was named by Guru Rinpoche. Visitors can see the shapes of many religious items in the place where the monastery lies. Even Lhasey Tshangma stayed for several months and took a consort, and had a son, whose descendents are now popularly known as Padro Gedung Chojay. In the later days, the Zuri Lhakhang was used as water tower side by side with Ta-Dzong. The huge stores at the top of the Lhakhang and the tall cypress trees in front of the Lhakhang is said to be used as spring boat for throwing stone boulders incase of possible attack on the Rinpung Dzong.

source: Paro Dzongkhag...

The peak of the Zuri Dzong Trek is probably the perfect spot to have a bird-eye view of the entire Paro valley. The Zuri Dzong is the oldest Dzong in Bhutan, and in there lies a cave where Buddha came to meditate in, in the 8th century. This peaceful place allows both Bhutanese and tourists to soak in the tranquil that radiates from the extraordinary view, something one can stare at for hours in wonder and awe. The total journey time to get there will take approximately 30 minutes if one starts from the museum watchtower, and an additional 1 hour to exit out towards Uma. Tourists can expect to sit and relax there, and also remember to catch the amazing side view as you hike...

One of the popular short hikes in Paro. We can start the hike from a road-bend above Paro Tadzong - the national museum of Bhutan.

The hike is through a thin forest of pine and oak trees and other short plants and herbs.

When we reach Zuri Dzong, it's a short stop as well as place of pilgrimage. It's an old Dzong that has wonderful history and stories.

One more thing about the place is it's a good viewpoint of Paro valley. During autumn, when terrace fields are orange, it looks grand and romantic.

We can make a descent from the Dzong and end the hike just above the Paro Education College compound along Uma...