Lingzhi Dzong

It is situated above 4,150 metres above sea level, Lingshi Yügyal Dzong, built by the third Druk Desi Chögyal Minjur Tenpa is an important Drukpa Kagyu monastery.

It was built to commemorate victory over a Tibetan invasion in 1668. It controlled the border between Tibet and Bhutan and was one of the main defensive fortresses in the north of Bhutan.

Today it houses about 40 monks headed by a Lam Neten.

The Lam Naten, Tshencho said the Dzong was partly damaged by an earthquake in 1867. Since then no major renovation was carried out until 2005. Although in the 1950s the building was reconstructed and used as administration centre.

Lam Tshencho said the renovation came at the right time. He said if delayed further there are chances that the structure could collapse.

Renovation is still ongoing. In 2006 Utse was completed, 2007 surrounding buildings, and in 2008 the surrounding wall. And now it is building the administrative centre for the Dungkhag.