Zurig Dzong – Get Into Bhutan Signature Hike

Wind through pine forest high above Uma Paro Resort to the pretty grounds of the fortress-like monastery Zurig Dzong. From the National Museum in the Ta Dzong take a leisurely 2 hours hike along the forested hillside to Zuri Dzong and then down to the Uma Resort where your driver will pick you up. On the way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Rinpung Valley and the only one airport in Bhutan. You come across a place you feel like to halt do the meditation as well.

Zuric Dzong was founded by Younten Dorji Pal, the desciple of Zur Jampa Sengye in the 14th Century (sixth Rajung), one can see there a two-storeyed temple. Near the temple, there is the secred place of Namthang Karpo that was blessed by Lopen Pema Jungney (Guru Rinpoche) and by other great servants of the past. Inside the Zurig Dzong you can see the statue of Jowo Jampa, there is a monk appointed from Rinpung Dzong. Since this sacred place of the wrathful Vajra guarded by Rahula on a hilltop of the fivefold self-arising wisdom letter ‘Hum’ like the Dzong (face) of a Sinmo (demoness) is similar to a zou (sickle) got cutting crops. It was known as Zuri Sinmo Dong – face of the sickle demoness. The temple is a wonderful sacred place where Dakas and Dakini assemble like billowing clouds.

The temple is popularly known as Zuri Dzong because it is situated on the Zur (side) of the hilltop to the left of Paro Rinpung Dzong.

Considered one of the oldest dzong, this ancient fortress dates back to 1352 and is home to the valley’s local protector. Built as a fort, the five-story building is well protected by the surrounding double walls even today. 

The fortress has a fine collection of murals in the upper chapels dedicated to the protector Zaa (Rahulla). There is also a cave within the area that people believe Buddha meditated in. 

Apart from its ancient rich history, the dzong is also famous for being the spot for a bird- eye view. Popular among tourist, many visitors hike to the dzong for the view of entire Paro valley.

The hike takes you through levels along the slope with a stunning view of the valley, covering the settlement of Paro top the mountains. This place is also a great spot for taking pictures. 

Hiking Info

Difficulty Level:              Medium

Best Season:                    March, April, May, June and Sept, Oct and Nov

Maximum Elevation:   2590.50m           

Walking distance:         3-4 km |

Walking time:                 1-2 hour Attraction:                        Wind through pine forest high above Uma Paro Resort to the pretty grounds of the fortress-like monastery Zurig Dzong. It’s very ecstatic walk distance from Uma Paro Resort. On the way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Rinpung Valley and the only one airport in Bhutan. You come across a place you feel like to halt do the meditation as well.