Journal · Punakha
Punakha Dzong
Bhutan's most beautiful dzong, built in 1637 where two rivers meet, and the seat of government until 1955.
The story
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built it in 1637 and 1638 on a spit of land where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, the father and mother rivers, join. It was the seat of government until 1955. The first King was crowned here in 1907, and the present King married here in 2011.
It has come through fires, an earthquake in 1897 and floods, the worst in 1994. It was consecrated again in 2004 after long repairs, and the covered bridge was rebuilt from 2006 to 2008.
Before you go
Most groups arrive between 11 and 1. Come at opening or after 3.30 to have it nearly to yourself. In late April and May the jacaranda trees along the walls flower purple.
Sources
Checked October 2026. Where sources disagree, we say so or leave the detail out. Opening times and rules change, so your guide confirms on the day.