Punakha Dzong
Pungtang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang commonly known as Punakha Dzong is the most grandiose and historic dzong in Punakha Valley. In the native language Pungtang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang means the "Palace of Great Bliss". Punakha Dzong is situated along the banks of Mo Chuu and Po Chuu on the outskirts of the main town of Punakha Valley. Built in 1637-38 Punakha Dzong is also the 2nd oldest and 2nd largest Dzong in Bhutan. Overlooking the scenic gorge, Punakha Dzong with its grandiose structure has been a must visit places in Punakha Valley.
History of Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong was founded by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Zabdrung Rinpoche. According to the Bhutanese legend, Guru Padmasamvaba had already foretold about this event where a person named Namgyal will arrive at a hill that looks like an elephant. Since the time of its establishments, this Dzong has been damaged 6 times by fire, once by an earthquake and once by a flood.
For the past 3 centuries, this Dzong has been renovated by many people. The eye-catching golden dome of central utse of it was added in 1676 by the local ruler called Gyaltsen Tenzin Rabgye. Likewise, many revered saints and rulers had added sacred relics and frameworks in this Dzong, contributing the current grandiose structure.
Interesting Fact About Punakha Dzong
Did you know? The hill atop which the Punakha Dzong is built resembles the trunk of an elephant and all the Kings of Bhutan were coroneted in Punakha Dzong.
Tourist Attractions and Things to See
- Sacred relics of Southern Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism including Rangjung Kasarpani.
- Remains of Ngawang Namgyal and the Terton Pema Lingo.
- Memorial Chapel housing the confiscated artillery from the defected Tibetan Army.
- Sacred Throdol which is only displayed once a year.
- Thangka, depicting the portrait of Zabdrung.
- Handcrafted religious masks used during the annual Tsechu festival.
Some Things to Remember while Visiting this Dzong
- Visitors need to wear full- length clothes.
- Making loud noise is not allowed.
- Punakha Dzong entry fee is rupees 300 per person and the opening time is 9 am.
- Don’t enter Dzongs wearing shoes.
Punakha Dzong Timings
Travels should note the timings of this Dzong since there are two different timings for the summer and winter season. The visiting hours of the Dzong are as follows:
- From June to Mid-November, visiting hours of Punakha Dzong are from 9 am to 5 pm.
- From Mid-November to May travelers can visit this Dzong anytime between 11 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm.
Best time to Visit
Due to its intense popularity, this Dzong can be visited any time of the year. Considering the comfort of the travelers, the best time to visit Punakha Dzong is from February to April and also from October to December.
How to Reach Punakha Dzong
The most convenient way to reach this Dzong is by walking from the main town of Punakha. The view of the purple jacaranda flowers dotting the route leading to the Dzong and crossing the quaint wooden bridge to finally reach here has enthralled the minds of many travelers. The distance from Punakha to Punakha Dzong is 3 km and it usually takes 30 minutes to reach there.
Places to visit near Punakha Dzong
With our Bhutan Holiday Packages, travelers can not only explore Punakha Dzong but also all the attractive nearby places. Some of the most visited tourist places near the Dzong are:
Chimi Lhakhang
Chimi Lhakhang, also known as Chime Monastery, is considered as one of the popular destinations near this Dzong. It is also known for its ability to fulfill barren people’s wishes. As a result, couples from all around the world come here to pray for children. The temple is located on the edge of Loseba Valley and it is surrounded by many paddy fields. The distance from Punakha Dzong to Chimi Lhakhang is approximately 7.5 km.
Limbukha Village
Situated in the Dochula Hill of the Punakha Valley, Limbukha is a fascinating village. This scenic abode is known for its serene ambiance, pictorial landscape and amusing historical significance. Travelers usually come here to enjoy an intense hiking activity. Hiking through the dense forest, crossing many paddy fields and picturesque hamlets are what make the trekking quite exceptional here. The distance from Punakha Dzong to Limbukha Village is more than 15 km.
Talo Monastery
Situated on the mountain ridge of Punakha Valley, Talo is a wonderfully beautiful monastery. Built-in the year 1767, Talo is surrounded by a lush green forest. The magnificent view of the mountain peaks in the backdrop increase the charm of it. The distance from Punakha Dzong to Talo Monastery is more than 18km.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang
Surrounded by daunting hills, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang is a Buddhist nunnery in Punakha. Travelers usually come here to apprehend the life of the anim. Situated just at a distance of just 9.5 km from Punakha Dzong, travelers can even participate in meditation with the nuns.
Khamsum Yueling Monastery
Surrounded by paddy fields, astounding mountains in the backdrop, Khamsum Yueling Monastery is the finest example of peace and serenity. Built-in the year 1990, it is an epitome of Bhutan’s architectural excellence.
Our Tour Packages Offerings
North Bengal Tourism offers a bunch of holiday packages to explore most of the attractive places in Bhutan. Choose any of our Punakha Bhutan Packages to customize them as per your likings and choices. Check out these packages exclusively designed for you.
- Complete Package for 6 days including Thimpu, Punakha, and Paro.
- Best Tour Package for 8 Days covering Thimpu, Paro Punakha & Phuentsholing.
- Affordable 7 days holiday for Thimpu, Punakha, Dochula Pass, and Paro.
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