Formerly named Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, ‘The Palace of Bliss or Great Happiness’, Punakha Dzong was built in 1637. The location of the majestic fortress is said to have been chosen by the founder of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Punakha Dzong takes pride in being the second oldest and also the second largest dzong in Bhutan. The dzong is part of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Its magnificent structure showcases the world-class architecture of Bhutan and finest Bhutanese craftsmanship. In fact, Bhutanese architecture has inspired building designs from all over the world including the architecture of an entire university campus, UTEP in Texas, United States. Punakha Dzong is truly one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and one of the most visited places by tourists.

Punakha Dzong is a six-storey structure with an utse (central tower) located at an elevation of 1200 m (3900 ft). Punakha Dzong’s structures such as the doors and windows were built using rammed earth, stones and timber. The dzong measures 180 m (590 ft) in length and 72m (236 ft) wide with three docheys (courtyards), unlike the other dzongs that usually have only two courtyards. The northern yard is where all the administrative functions take place. The courtyard consists of a large white stupa and a Bodhi tree.

The third courtyard is the most important of all as it houses the main temple and national treasures. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to enter; only the two designated guardians, lama, the king and the chief abbot can access it.

Aside from that, the Nag Yul Bum Temple houses the original volume of the Kanjur, which is the golden holy book of the Drupka School of Thought.

Served as the Government’s Central Location until the Mid-1950s Punakha Dzong is deeply rooted in history and significance. For many years, Punakha Dzong served as the seat or the central location for the Government of Bhutan until the capital relocated to Thimphu in 1955.

The majestic fortress remains Punakha’s District Administrative Center housing several religious relics. The fortress also served as the venue for the notable royal wedding of the fifth king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema.