Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong Fortress stands at the confluence of two rivers the Mo Chhu (Mother River) and the Pho Chhu (Father River). Punakha served as Bhutan's capital for over 300 years and the first king was crowned here in 1907. The dzong and the surrounding area suffered severe damage in 1994 when a glacial lake far up in the Pho Chhu valley burst sending a flash flood downstream.
Punakha Dzong is definitely the most impressive of the Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong lies in the tranquil serenity of the place – truly a memorable experience for all travelers.

The dzong has three courtyards. The first (northern) courtyard is for administrative functions and houses a huge chorten with a Bodhi tree. The second courtyard houses the monastic quarters and is separated from the first by an utse. The third (southern) courtyard has the main temple. Sacred remains and relics are placed in a closed room inside the temple and only the chief Abbot of Bhutan (called Je Khenpo) and the King may enter the room.