Background
Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungthang Dewa chhenbi Phodrang, which means “the palace of great happiness or bliss,” is one of the most important dzongs in Bhutan. It was built in 1637-38 by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Zhabdrung Rinpoche, who united Bhutan as a nation. The dzong is located where the Pho Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river) meet in the Punakha Valley. It also plays a key role in important Bhutanese state ceremonies, such as the coronation of kings and royal weddings.