This Dzong is also known as Choekhortse Dzong (fortress). This fortress has a special significance in Bhutanese history where the Crown Prince assume the post of ChhoetsePenlop (Trongsa Penlop) prior to the enthronement as the King of Bhutan with the birth of Monarchy in 1907.

The fortress was originally built in 1534 by Ngagi Wangchuk (the great grandfather of Zhabdrung) which was enlarged in 17th century by Trongsa Penlop, MigyurTenpa (1613-1680). The latter also built the ‘Ta Dzong”, the watch tower which overlooks the fortress in 1652. Today, it serves as a National Museum, monastic residence and a meditation place.