History:

is a fortified monastery and administrative centre located in Punakha, Bhutan. It was initially built in 1637–38 to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region, and was the capital of Bhutan in the 17th century. The dzong was heavily damaged by an earthquake and fire in 1897, and the present structure was built in its place in the early 20th century. Punakha Dzong is situated on the confluence of two rivers, the Pho Chhu and the Moe Chhu, and houses many important cultural and historical artifacts, including the sacred relics of the southern Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. It is an important symbolic site and a popular tourist attraction. It is one of the best temple in Bhutan which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Punakha Dzong is located in Punakha valley, Bhutan. It is one of the most important dzongs (fortresses) in Bhutan. 2. Punakha Dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. 3. The dzong is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. 4. The Punakha Dzong was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1994. 5. The dzong houses numerous relics of significance to Buddhism, and is still an active Buddhist monastery. 6. The annual Punakha Drubchen festival is held each spring in the dzong’s courtyard. The festival commemorates the victory of the Bhutanese over the Tibetan invasion force. 7. Inside the dzong is an assembly hall and another smaller assembly hall. The smaller hall is dedicated to Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha. 8. The dzong is decorated with many intricate paintings, traditionally depicting Buddhist stories and deities. Here are some facts about the Bhutan temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Bhutan

Worship Method:

The traditional worship method practiced at Punakha Dzong is the same as in most other Dzongs and temples throughout Bhutan. This method includes offerings and prayers to the Buddhas, recitation of mantras, and chanting of prayers. In order to perform the rituals in accordance with the established traditions, the caretakers and monks chant mantras from the ancient Buddhist texts, chant various rituals, and offer traditional foods, water, butter lamps, and mandala offerings. Additionally, butter sculptures of the Buddhas and lama's picture may be placed in the temple as the sign of blessing and purification. After the worship, all participants do the kora (circumambulation) around the temple three times while reciting prayer. This most visited temple in Bhutan

Opening Timing:

Punakha Dzong is open to the public from 9 AM to 4:30 PM on all days of the week, except Sundays and special religious holidays. top temples in Bhutan

How to reach:

The best way to reach Punakha Dzong is by road. There is no train or air services currently available to Punakha. The closest airport is Paro International Airport, approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) away. From the airport, you can take a taxi to Punakha (about 5 hours drive). Alternatively, you can take a bus from Thimphu to Punakha ( around 90 km, 4 hours). famous temples in Bhutan