Punakha Dzongkhag has been inextricably linked with momentous occasions in Bhutanese history. It served as the capital of the country from 1637 to 1907 and the first national assembly was hosted here in 1953. Punakha Dzong is not only the second oldest and second largest dzong but it also has one of the most majestic structures in the country. October 13, 2011 marked an unforgettable wedding of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to Jetsun Pema which was held at Punakha Dzong. Punakha Dzong was built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley. It is an especially beautiful sight on sunny days with sunlight reflecting off the water onto its white-washed walls. In addition to its structural beauty, Punakha Dzong is notable for containing the preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan as well as a sacred relic known as the Ranjung Karsapani. This relic is a self-created image of Avalokiteswara that miraculously emerged from the vertebrae of Tsangpa Gyarey, the founder of the Drukpa School when he was cremated. Punakha valley has a pleasant climate with warm winters and hot summers. It is located at an average elevation of 1200 m above sea level. Owing to the favourable climatic conditions, rice has become the main cash crop cultivated in the region.
| 1 | Nearest Airport: | Paro International Airport | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Nearest Railhead: | New Jalpaiguri (NJP) | |
| 3 | Type of Cuisines: | Bhutanese Cusines, | |
| 4 | Top Local Restaurants outside the hotels: | Dochula Resort Restaurant,Chimi Lakhang Cafeteria | |
| 5 | How to Reach: | By Private Vehicle From Thimphu To Punakha | |
Sightseeing Places to see in Punakha
Dochu-La-Pass
Dochula pass is located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass. Bhutanese families enjoy visiting the pass during holidays and wee
Punakha Dzong.
He Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dewa chhenbi Phodrang (meaning "the palace of great happiness or bliss"[1][2]), is the administrative centre of Punakha District in Punakha, Bhutan. Constructed by Ngawang Namgyal, 1st Zhabdrung Rinpoche, in 1637–38,[1][3] it is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures.[1][4] The dzong houses the sacred relics of the so
| Hotels in Punakha |
|---|
| No Data Available |
| Other Destinations |
|---|
| No Data Available |