10 Things to Do in Punakha Dzong, Trashi Yangtse, Bhutan
Punakha Dzong, located in Trashi Yangtse, Bhutan, is one of the most beautiful and historically significant sites in the country. This 17th century fortress is the former capital of Bhutan and is now the winter residence of the central monastic body. It is also the site of the coronation of the first two kings of Bhutan. Here are 10 things to do in Punakha Dzong:
1. Visit Chimi Lhakhang: Chimi Lhakhang is a temple dedicated to the 15th century Buddhist saint Drukpa Kunley, also known as the Divine Madman. The temple is located on a hilltop and can be reached by a half-hour hike from the main road.
2. Attend a Festival: Punakha Dzong is the site of several festivals throughout the year, including the Punakha Drubchen, held in the 12th month of the Bhutanese calendar. This festival involves masked dances, traditional music, and the unfurling of a giant thangka.
3. Explore the Architecture: Punakha Dzong is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. The fortress is divided into two parts, the utse and the dzong proper. The utse is a five-story tower with a golden roof, and the dzong proper is a two-story building with a large central courtyard.
4. Learn About Bhutanese History: Punakha Dzong is an important part of Bhutanese history, as it was the site of the coronation of the first two kings of Bhutan. The fortress also served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955, when it was moved to Thimphu.
5. Take in the Views: The views from Punakha Dzong are stunning. The fortress is situated on a hill overlooking the Punakha Valley, and from the top you can see the Mo Chhu river, the surrounding hills, and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the distance.
6. Visit the Monastery: Punakha Dzong is home to a large monastery, which houses over 200 monks. Visitors are allowed to enter the monastery and observe the monks at prayer.
7. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a stunning temple located on a hilltop overlooking the Punakha Valley. The temple can be reached by a two-hour hike from Punakha Dzong.
8. Attend a Meditation Retreat: Punakha Dzong is home to several meditation retreats, which offer the perfect opportunity to learn about Buddhist meditation and philosophy.
9. Visit the Punakha Suspension Bridge: The Punakha Suspension Bridge is a popular attraction, located just a few minutes’ walk from Punakha Dzong. The bridge spans the Mo Chhu river and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
10. Explore the Surrounding Area: Punakha Dzong is located in a beautiful area of Bhutan, and there are many interesting places to explore nearby. The nearby town of Wangdue Phodrang is home to a large monastery and several traditional Bhutanese villages, and the nearby Phobjikha Valley is home to rare species of birds, including the endangered black-necked crane.
Punakha Dzong is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the culture and history of Bhutan. From the stunning architecture to the peaceful meditation retreats, there is something for everyone at this beautiful site.