Punakha
Punakha is at altitude 4420 feet served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955. It is the winter seat of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the monk body. It has a temperate climate and its rich fertile valley is fed by the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.
Druk Wangyal Chortens at Dochula:
On the way to Phunakha from Thimphu is the Dochula pass from where a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range can be seen, specially on clear winter days. The beauty of this place is further enchanced by the Druk Wangyal Chorenten’s-a 108 stupas built by the eldest Queen, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji wangmo Wangchuck.
Punakha Dzong:
The Punakha Dzong was built by the Zhabdrung in 1637. It stands majestically at the junction of the two rivers- Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers. The Dzong is open for visitors during the Punakha Tshechu and during the summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu.
Khansum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Built by the third Queen, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck this Chorten is splendid example of fine Bhutanese architecture and art and is the only one of its kind in the world. It has been built over eight and a half years and its details have been drawn from religious scriptures.
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