In terms of quality and originality, Bhutanese architecture is without doubt one of the best expressions of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom's unique character. Almost completely isolated for many centuries by its complex geography, Bhutan has indeed seen very few changes in its architectural system since the earliest times. The main roots of its architecture go back to Tibet, which was itself in relation with China and faraway Persia thanks to traders traveling the Silk Route. Drawing inspiration from older forms and ideas, the architects of Bhutan developed a style, which is peculiar to their country. Displaying a great sense of innovation, they made each dzong, temple and monastery a unique creation, different from all others but at the same time maintaining a perfect unity of architectural style throughout the country. Each of these buildings was designed and built to harmonize with the environment and fulfill certain specific functions. Secular or religious, many of them are true masterpieces.

The main features of Bhutanese architecture are the result primarily of natural conditions, and especially the climate. In the countries situated to the north of the Himalayan range, such as Tibet or Ladakh, the long severe winters and cold continental winds have produced an arid landscape with only sparse vegetation. In contrast, those to the south, such as Nepal, Sikkim and Bhutan, have much milder climates with abundant rainfall, especially during the summer monsoon. This particular climate has produced Alpine-type vegetation, with forests containing many species of trees such as oak, rhododendron, cypress, juniper, pine and fir.... Naturally, this plentiful supply of timber has given birth to an architecture in which wood plays a major role. Shingle roofs and half-timbering are commonplace, as the raw materials are easy to find.

But in addition to the climate and environment, a human factor must also be stressed, and that is that the minds of the Bhutanese people seem to have been influenced by their friendlier surroundings to create a gentler and more elegant architecture than in Tibet.

The oldest buildings, such as Jampa Lhakhang in Bumthang valley or Kyichu in Paro valley, date from the period of the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Later, many monasteries were built in Bhutan between the 13th and 17th centuries. After this followed the period of the first Shabdrung Rimpoche, Ngawang Namgyel, who had a great network of fortress built throughout the entire country. This architectural heritage is still visible today.

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