Punakha
Dzong built between two rivers in the 17th century by
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel served as capital of Bhutan
until 1955 and is still the winter residence of the
central monk body. In spite of four catastrophic fires
and an earthquake that destroyed many historic documents.
Punakha Dzong houses sacred artifacts and embalmed body
of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Punakha’s climate
and warmer temperatures make its valley one of the most
fertile in Bhutan. Chime Lhakhang located on a hillock
among the rice fields is picturesque and is a pilgrimage
site for childless couples. The temple is associated
with the famous saint Drukpa Kuenlay “The Divine
Madman” who has built a chorten on the site during
the 14th century. |