Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong, widely considered the most beautiful of Bhutan's great fortress-monasteries, or dzongs, is a majestic and serene white edifice set dramatically at the confluence of two rivers, the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu, in the warm, lush Punakha valley. Once the capital of Bhutan and still the winter seat of the country's religious leadership, this vast, elegant complex of whitewashed walls, golden roofs and intricately carved and painted woodwork, framed in spring by lilac jacaranda blossom, is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture.

History

The Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal had the dzong built in 1637-1638 by the architect Zowe Palep, who is said to have seen its plan in a dream and built it without drawings, and he set up a monastic order of 600 monks brought from Cheri and lived here until his death. The spire on the central tower was added in 1676, the dzong was much enlarged between 1744 and 1763, fires between 1750 and 1849 and the earthquake of 1897 damaged it, and in 1907 it saw the coronation of Ugyen Wangchuck as the first king, remaining the seat of government until the capital moved to Thimphu in 1955 (Wikipedia, Punakha Dzong).

What you'll find

• The riverside fortress - the majestic dzong at the confluence of two rivers.
• The courtyards and temples - the elegant whitewashed courts and shrines.
• The carved woodwork - the intricate painted and carved decoration.
• The jacaranda blossom - the lilac blooms framing the dzong in spring.

When to go

March to May and September to November for the clearest weather; the lilac jacaranda trees around the dzong bloom spectacularly in spring, roughly April. The Punakha valley is lower and warmer than Thimphu, a pleasant change, and its own tshechu festival is a highlight.

Before you go

Reaching it involves a scenic drive over the high Dochula Pass from Thimphu, part of the experience. As an active fortress-monastery and religious seat, dress modestly, and access to some areas may be restricted; photography is not allowed inside the temples. Visiting Bhutan requires a guided tour and daily fee. The dzong's beauty and serene riverside setting, though, are the highlight of many trips.

Nearby

The Dochula Pass, the Thimphu valley and the suspension bridge are within reach.

Key facts