The Bhutanese architecture is characterized by structural designs and exterior paintwork (shapes, colors, and patterns), representing national identity and traditional meanings. Dzongs (fortresses), Gompas (monasteries), Chortens (shrines/stupas), Lakhangs (temples) and houses are some of the impressive and important structures in Bhutan.

Most of the monasteries and temples throughout Bhutan are built on steep hillsides and in other remote places. This ensures that the monks get a solitude and serenity. All the monasteries in Bhutan have some common features though they also have their own design. Monasteries here have a central chapel with statues and separate sleeping quarters for the monks. There are prayer wheels around the outside and a round gold-colored ornament on the roof. Temples are not very different from monasteries in design and look, the only difference between them is that they do not house a monk body.