PUNAKHA (4420 ft)

Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan and has witnessed many historic events in the past.  A happy drive of about 2 hours from the capital city to Punakha would be a very fascinating journey as it passes through the dense woods of Dochula. A variety of orchids and bird species take refuge here.

Further beautifying this green heritage is the Druk Wangyal Chorten which comprises of one hundred and eight stupas built by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.

Before entering the dramatic valley of Punakha, the sight of a remarkable monastery creates a state of euphoria. The location of the monastery on a hill provides a scenic view overlooking the sparsely populated village with vast terraces of rice fields.  The monastery was built in1499 by Lam Drukpa Kuenly who was also known as the ‘Divine Mad Man’.

The swift rivers of Punakha, the Pho chu and the Mo chu unites to form the Punatshang chu. The fertile valley of Punakha has resulted in abundance of crops which is indeed the prime source of livelihood for the farmers.

In Punakha, the historic dzong is yet another marvel of Bhutanese architecture. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong was damaged several times by fire, earthquake, and flood. The dzong has been fully restored and some major renovations were done few years back. It is now the winter residence of Je Khenpo (religious head) and the central monk body. The dzong also houses the office of the local administrator. In one of the temple inside the dzong, the embalmed remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is kept.

Further up, north of Punakha town, the beautiful Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chhorten, located on the opposite bank of the river provides a stunning view of the valley. It was built in a period of eight years.

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