Bhutanese dzong architecture reached its apogee in the 17th century under Ngawang Namgyal, the 1st Zhabdrung Rinpoche, who is said to have relied on visions and omens to site each of the dzongs.

Figures like Lama Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman, and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal later consolidated the lineage, making it Bhutan’s state religion. After the passing of the fourth Gyalwang Drukpa, ...