Punakha Dzong || Pungthang Dechen Phodrang
Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, particularly enchanting in spring when the surrounding Jacaranda trees are in bloom. Also known as Pungthang Dechhen Phodrang ("The Palace of Great Happiness"), Punakha Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chhu rivers and was constructed by Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal in 1637. This sacred site has witnessed the coronation of all of Bhutan's kings.
The dzong houses the most revered relics of the Drukpa Kagyu school, including the Rangjung Kasarpani, as well as the remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Spanning 180 meters in length and 72 meters in width, with a six-storey utse (central tower), Punakha Dzong stands as an architectural marvel.
On December 17th, 1907, Ugyen Wangchuk was crowned here as the first hereditary King of Bhutan. Additionally, the Dzong serves as the winter home of the central Monastic Body, which moves here from Thimphu.
The dzong houses the most revered relics of the Drukpa Kagyu school, including the Rangjung Kasarpani, as well as the remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Spanning 180 meters in length and 72 meters in width, with a six-storey utse (central tower), Punakha Dzong stands as an architectural marvel.
On December 17th, 1907, Ugyen Wangchuk was crowned here as the first hereditary King of Bhutan. Additionally, the Dzong serves as the winter home of the central Monastic Body, which moves here from Thimphu.
