Punakha Dzong

fortress in Punakha

#1 in Punakha / #2 in Bhutan

by Bernard Gagnon

/ CC BY-SA 4.0

Punakha Dzong is a majestic fortress and monastery located in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan. It is one of the most historically and culturally significant dzongs in the country. Constructed in 1637–1638 by Ngawang Namgyal, the 1st Zhabdrung Rinpoche, it served as the administrative center and the seat of the government of Bhutan until the capital was moved to Thimphu in 1955. The dzong is strategically situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers, providing a stunning backdrop of natural beauty.

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