Punakha is a town in west central Bhutan. Up until 1955, it was the capital city of Bhutan. Punakha Dzong, the second one to be built in Bhutan served as the seat of government till around the same time. The dzong still serves as the winter residence of the official monk body of Bhutan.
Built at the convergence of two rivers Pho Chu (known as male river) and Mo Chu (known as female river), it beholds a majestic sight.
During spring, the jacaranda trees in front of the dzong are in full bloom. The contrast of the mauve jacarandas against the huge whitewashed walls of the dzong and the rivers flowing in the front are breathtakingly beautiful. The entire area surrounding the dzong and along the banks of the rivers are filled with flower bearing trees.
At a bit of a walking distance from the dzong is the Punakha Suspension Bridge, which links Punakha Dzong to Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha villages across the Tsang Chu (male river – Po Chu). At ~520 feet, this is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. Adorned with colourful prayer flags, the bridge offers spectacular views of the river and valley in the background.
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