Punakha Dzong

Built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the strategic confluence of the Pho Chhu (Father River) and Mo Chhu (Mother River), Punakha Dzong is the second oldest dzong in Bhutan and widely regarded as the most beautiful. It houses sacred relics including the Rangjung Kharsapani, served as the capital until 1955, and remains the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body and the site where every Bhutanese king has been crowned, including the current Fifth King in 2008. The massive structure features three courtyards, a six-story central tower, and a cantilevered wooden bridge spanning the Mo Chhu.