Marvel at the most most beautiful dzong of Bhutan - Punakha Dzong
Located in the bountiful Punakha Valley, right at the confluence of two rivers Pho Chu (Father River) and Mo Chu (Mother River), Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness) is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. Built in the 17th century, the dzong is the winter residence for the Central Monk Body of Bhutan who often leave for here to wait out the cold winter. Accessible from the capital Thimphu for a 3-hour drive, people visiting Punakha Dzong will marvel at the majesty of the hundred-pillar assembly hall and the wonderful murals depicting the life of Buddha inside the house as well as the glorious natural sights of the area. The place not only contains many precious relics showcasing the country's history from the earlier time but also boasts a pleasant climate and picturesque setting of the house itself and surrounding sceneries. Regarded as the most gorgeous dzong of the country, Punakha comes to its most beautiful time when the jacaranda trees around the dzong start to bloom simultaneously and offer splashes of lovely lilac color during the spring months.
