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.