Home About Us Tariffs General Information About Bhutan Sample Itineraries Druk Air Flights and Other Links \ Folk Museum Places Visiting Bhutan |
 |
|
|
Bumthang : Mongar : Paro : Phobjikha : Phuentsholing : Punakha
----------------------------------------------
Thimphu : Trashigang : Trongsa : Wangdiphodrang
----------------------------------------------
Thimphu : Trashigang : Trongsa : Wangdiphodrang
A low-lying sub-tropical valley, Punakha was once the capital of Bhutan and is still the winter seat of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot). The road that leads to Punakha from Thimphu crosses the 10,218 feet high Dochula Pass that heralds the most enchanting view of Bhutan. Soft green herbs and a riotous canvas of flowers, make the view breathtaking. Dochula is characterized by a cluster of prayer flags and a Chorten. There is a cafeteria that contains a binocular telescope; which offers a close-up view of the Himalayan mountain range. Gangkar Phuensum, the highest peak in Bhutan, is visible from this point. Along the way to Punakha you will pass various religious monuments, such as Dalay Goemba and Talo Goemba, which were both founded by the Shabdrung.
Punakha Dzong is set on a split of land just above the junction where the rivers Pho Chu (male river) and the Mo Chu (female river) meet. Its’ construction was foretold by Guru Rinpoche; who claimed that a man named Namgyal would build a religious monument on a hill that resembles an elephant. As predicted, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this sacred monument in 1637 on a hill that resembles the trunk of a sleeping elephant. The Shabdrung died in this Dzong and his death was kept a secret for 50 years to help Buddhism flourish in Bhutan. The remains of the Shabdrung are entombed here in the chapel of Machin Lhakhang (meaning ‘Sacred Embalmed Body’). Often damaged by fire, earthquake and flood the Dzong has been restored numerous times. Punakha Dzong is established adjacent to a temple, which was established in1328 by Ngagi Rinchen. The first King, Ugyen Wangchuck’s reign was inaugurated here on December 17,1907. Jigme Wangchuck, the second King was crowned here in March 1927. Punakha Dzong remained the seat of the government until 1952, after which King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck moved the capital to Thimphu.
Chimi Lhakhang is built at the centre of the Punakha valley; and was established by Lam Drukpa Kunley. He built this Lhakhang to celebrate his victory over the demoness of Dochula La. Infertile women visit this Lhakhang to pray for children and it is believed that the Gods of this particular valley will bless such women.
