Punakha Dzong

The Palace of Great Bliss or Punthang Dechen Phodrang in Bhutan is commonly known as Punakha Dzong from other parts of the world. This amazing and historical palace has been built during the 1600s and has already been renovated several times after certain calamities.

Dzongs are quite common in Bhutan since they are being ruled by kings. However, Punakha Dzong is quite different from the rest because of its gigantic size and also because of its great involvement to Bhutan’s history.

What You Should Not Miss

The Utse or the central tower in the Dzong is open to tourists and is mostly covered by tour packages in Bhutan. Be amazed by the intricacies of the architecture inside the towers and feel the elegance and the history of the very old Dzong.

The Kuenrey is also a must see when going to Punakha Dzong. You will be surprised by how beautiful the statues and the paintings are considering that they have been made more than hundreds of years ago. The giant statues of Buddha and the highly detailed dragons painted on the ceiling will surely tell you much about Buddhism.

The beautiful scenery in and around Punakha Dzong is also spectacular and should not be missed by all tourists. It is a must that you visit the Dzong during the afternoons since the monks are in a more calmed pace and the sun beautifies the paintings and the entire Dzong even more.

What You Should Know

Tour guides are very essential when visiting Punakha Dzong since you will not be allowed to enter without one. Also make sure that the tour guide you will be bringing has the permits needed so that you can visit the Dzong.

Caps, shorts, umbrellas, vests, and hats are prohibited inside the Dzong. Make sure that you wear sleeved clothing and pants since it is a sign of respect. Also, before you enter the temples, you are required to take off your shoes and you are not allowed to take pictures