Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong stands where two rivers, the Pho Chhu and the Mo Chhu, meet in a warm, fertile valley. Built in the 1630s by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who unified Bhutan, it served as the seat of government for many years and is still the winter home of the country’s central monastic body.

You cross the river by a traditional covered wooden bridge and climb steep steps into a series of courtyards, with towering whitewashed walls, intricately painted woodwork and a great assembly hall filled with golden statues. In spring, lilac jacaranda trees bloom around the walls.

Combine the visit with a walk across the long Punakha Suspension Bridge, hung with prayer flags, and a stroll through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple popular with couples hoping for children. The valley is lower and warmer than Thimphu, so dress in layers.