The Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. Half of the dzong is for the government and the other half is for the head of the monk body. Just driving up to the dzong, my attention was instantly drawn to beautiful architecture of tall white walls surrounded by lilac colored Jacaranda trees. We were lucky to visit during the spring time because all of the flowers were bloomed. As we approached the bridge to cross the river to get to the dzong, the smell of the trees gave off a faint fragrance of sweet honey. To access the dzong we had to cross a wooden bridge. Right underneath the bridge is the confluence of two rivers of Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother).
After the bridge we climbed steep wooden steps to enter the dzong. Entering the first courtyard, I first notice a huge tree known as a Bodhi Tree and a stupa right next to it. In this courtyard is where the administrative part is located and the annual festival, Domche, is held. Going through a dark narrow passage we entered the second courtyard, the religious part. The last courtyard is filled with multiple temples, but only the main temple is open to the public. Since photography is not allowed I sat down on the floor and just took everything in and took a mental picture.
We also visited the nearby the suspension bridge which is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan and is covered in prayer flags. Seeing the bridge in pictures is one thing but walking across it was exhilarating. The sounds made by the fluttering of flags and the rushing water underneath added to the special ambience of the moment. Surprisingly the bridge didn't rock side to side as much as I thought it would unless people purposely tried using their momentum to move it. It was relaxing to stand in the middle of the bridge and feel the wind against my skin and the peaceful vibes around me.
Jodi S
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