Punakha Dzong

Overview

Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Punakha Dzong was the second dzong constructed in Bhutan and served as the seat of government until the capital moved to Thimphu in 1955. It is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, featuring intricate woodcarvings and massive whitewashed walls. Historically, it was the site of the coronation of the first King of Bhutan in 1907 and, more recently, the royal wedding of the fifth King in 2011.

The dzong is accessed by a traditional cantilever bridge and houses sacred relics, including the Rangjung Kharsapani. Despite suffering from several fires and a glacial flash flood over the centuries, the fortress has been meticulously restored to its original glory. Its location at the "V" of two major rivers makes it a photographer's dream, especially in the spring when the purple jacaranda trees are in full bloom around its white walls.