🏯 Punakha Dzong
Bhutan
About This Sacred Site
Punakha Dzong, officially Pungthang Dechen Phodrang ('Palace of Great Happiness'), is the second oldest and most majestic dzong (fortress-monastery) in Bhutan. Built in 1637-38 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, it stands at the scenic confluence of the Pho Chhu (Father River) and Mo Chhu (Mother River). The dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and remains the winter residence of the central monk body. The first king of Bhutan was crowned here in 1907, and royal weddings are still held within its walls.
Key Facts
- •Built in 1637-38 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan
- •Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers
- •Served as Bhutan's capital and seat of government until 1955
- •Houses sacred relics including the Rangjung Kasarpani, a self-created image of Avalokiteshvara
- •The first king of Bhutan was crowned here in 1907
Location
Coordinates: 27.5914, 89.8633
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