Punakha Dzong

Also known as Pungtang Dewa chhenbi Phodrang (Palace of Great Bliss), is an iconic fortress located at the confluence of two rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, in Punakha district of Bhutan. It is one of the most famous and stunning landmarks in Bhutan and is considered to be one of the most beautiful dzongs in the country.

The dzong was built in 1637 by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, to serve as the seat of the government and the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (chief abbot) and the central monastic body. It also played an important role in defending the country from invasions.
The dzong is an impressive example of Bhutanese architecture, featuring towering white walls, golden roofs, and ornate woodcarvings and paintings. The dzong is also home to several important relics and works of art, including the preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a statue of Buddha, and other valuable religious artifacts.

Punakha Dzong is also the site of several important religious and cultural events, including the Punakha Tshechu, an annual festival featuring colorful masked dances, traditional music, and other cultural activities.

Chimi Lhakhang

Located in the Punakha district of Bhutan, Chimi Lhakhang is dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman. Legend has it that he used his "flaming thunderbolt" to subdue demons and spread Buddhism.

Nestled in a scenic rural area surrounded by rice fields and hills, the temple is accessible via a short walk through the traditional village of Sopsokha. The small, colorful temple features traditional Bhutanese architecture and vibrant wall paintings, with prayer flags decorating the courtyard.

Chimi Lhakhang is particularly known for its fertility blessings. Couples seeking to conceive visit the temple to receive a blessing from the resident monk, who uses a wooden phallus, a symbol that also serves as a popular souvenir.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Perched on a hill overlooking Punakha Valley, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is celebrated for its stunning architecture, intricate artwork, and breathtaking views. Built in 2004 to honor the king and promote peace and harmony, it's one of Bhutan's most impressive recent landmarks.

The temple showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture with four storeys, each symbolizing different aspects of Buddhist teaching. Its exterior features intricate carvings and paintings, while the interior boasts vibrant murals and statues of Buddhist deities.

The hike to the temple is a highlight, offering scenic views of the valley and hills. The 45-minute to 1-hour trail is moderately challenging. At the temple, visitors can enjoy panoramic views, explore the meditation and shrine rooms, and spin a large prayer wheel for good luck.

Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

The Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge spans the Pho Chhu River, linking Punakha Dzong to the surrounding countryside. At 160 meters long and 60 meters above the river, it is one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges. Constructed from steel cables and wooden planks, it’s designed to endure strong winds and heavy rains.

Crossing the bridge offers a thrilling experience, with its sway and bounce adding excitement. Visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Punakha valley and the hills. Built in the 16th century, the bridge has historical and cultural significance, serving as a key transportation route for centuries.

Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang

The temple is situated on a ridgeline that is approximately two kilometers uphill from the right bank of the Mo Chhu river in Kabisa gewog (district). Even though the name of the place has the term "chorten" in it, it is more accurately referred to as a lhakhang since there are no significant chortens present on the premises.

The main buildings of interest are the three-story lhakhang and a long gatehouse to the east. A spacious quadrangle, now paved with flagstones, is located between them.

While many lhakhangs have a similar style to dzong architecture, the central compound at Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang strongly resembles an utse, the fortified strongholds at the centers of dzongs and other fortress-monasteries. On the ground floor, the windows are quite small, making it difficult, if not impossible, for potential attackers to gain entry through them. Only higher up, well beyond the reach of any ladders, do the rabsel-style windows open up to provide broad, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. On the exterior, the compound was probably once enclosed by high walls that encompassed the lhakhang and the courtyard, with only the gatehouse still standing, although such walls no longer exist.