Punakha
Punakha has been and is one of the pivotal places in Bhutan. Punakha was the winter capital till 1955 and the Punakha Dzong continues to be the winter residence of the Je Khenpo and the central Monk Body. Punakha Dzong is situated at the confluence of Phochu and Mochu rivers whereby they converge as the Puna Tsangchhu. Zhabdrung Rinpoche began the construction of the Dzong in 1637, after completion was named as Pungthang Dechen Phodrang Dzong. It was from Punakha where Zhabdrung successfully resisted the numerous Tibetan invasions. Major renovation of the Dzong was carried out in 1986 and 2003.
The temperature varies between 35 degree Celsius during summers to 4 degree Celsius during winters. The altitude ranges from 1200 metres to 4800 metres and is one of the most fertile valleys in Bhutan.
The main town of Punakha is situated at Khuruthang which is about 4 Km away from the dzong.
Places of interest:
- Punakha Dzong: The Dzong has been a hot attraction for Tourists from all around the world because of its rich historical background. The sacred relic ‘Rangjung Kharsapani’ and the embalmed body of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is still preserved and guarded with great devotion and reverence in the Dzong.
- Hot springs: Koma Tshachu and the Chhubu Tshachu.
- Chimmi Lhakhang: It is the temple of fertility where you get blessed by a phallus.
- Khamsum Yuellay Namgyel Temple