Punakha was Bhutan's capital until the mid-1950s, and its dzong, built in 1637 to 1638 where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers meet, is often called the most beautiful in the country, above all when the jacarandas flower in spring. The drive from Thimphu crosses Dochula pass, where 108 memorial chortens frame views of the eastern Himalaya on clear days. The warm valley is also known for its rice terraces, the long suspension bridge over the Pho Chhu and the village temple of Chimi Lhakhang.
