Western Bhutan · Punakha
A warm valley where two rivers meet
About Punakha
Punakha lies lower and warmer than the valleys around it, a green world of rice terraces, orange trees and jacaranda, cut by two rivers that meet beneath its famous dzong.
It was Bhutan’s capital for some three hundred years, and Punakha Dzong is still one of the most important and beautiful buildings in the country. In winter, when the higher valleys turn cold, the central monk body moves here from Thimphu.
Days here are easy and relaxed: walk through the fields to a village temple, cross a long suspension bridge over the river, or simply sit by the water and watch the valley go by.
Featured highlights
Palace of great happiness
Built in the 17th century where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers meet, Punakha Dzong is often called the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan. Its white walls, golden roofs and carved wooden balconies are reached over a covered bridge, and in spring the courtyard is framed by purple jacaranda flowers.
Temple of the Divine Madman
A gentle walk through rice fields and a village leads to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kunley, a beloved and famously unconventional saint. Couples come from all over Bhutan to ask for a blessing for children, and the houses along the way are painted with his colourful symbols.
On the way from Thimphu
Between Thimphu and Punakha, the road crosses Dochula Pass, where 108 small chortens stand among the prayer flags. On a clear day, especially in winter, the view stretches across a long line of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. It is a lovely place to stop for tea and a short walk.
A short hike
In the upper valley, a short hike through rice fields and pine trees leads to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built by a Queen Mother to bring peace and wellbeing to the kingdom. From its rooftop, the views over the Punakha valley and its river are wonderful.
Tell us what you’d love to see, and we’ll shape the journey around you.
Travel with purpose
Your visit supports the farming villages and temples of the Punakha valley.
Included in every price, it helps pay for Bhutan’s free healthcare and education, and for protecting its forests.
We stay in family homestays and farmhouses, and buy from the weavers and farmers you meet along the way.
Every trip is planned by our family in Thimphu, so what you spend stays in Bhutan and with the people you meet.
Trips that visit Punakha
Book a trip as it is, or use it as a starting point and change the days, places and hotels to suit you.
Autumn · Thimphu · Punakha · Gangtey · Bumthang
Price on request
Festivals
Dates follow the lunar calendar and are tentative until officially confirmed. See all festivals
