punakha

Things to do and see at punakha

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is also known as the palace of great happiness. The elegantly designed palace is the current administrative centre of Punakha District. Constructed in 1637 by Ngawang Namgyal the 1st Zhabdrung Rinpoche. The palace is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan.

Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, Punakha Dzong is known to be the most picturesque Dzong in the Country.

Tip: There are at least 3 photos opportunities location for Punakha Dzong. Do ask our guide to bring you there.

Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Built by her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a temple build dedicated to the well-being of the Kingdom, its people and all sentient beings. This 4 storeys temple was built based on the Holy scripture rather than engineering manuals.

There are 2 approaches to this hike.
The first option will be through the Punakha suspension bridge, it will take 15-20 minutes to reach the temple. The second option (preferred option) will be to hike through the gorgeous Punakha valley which will take climbers at least an hour to arrive.

Tip: Access the highest level of the temple and immerse yourself with the majestic view of the Punakha

Walk to Chimi Lhakhang Temple

Built in 1499 by the 14th Drukpa, Ngawang Choegyel, the temple was built in honor of Saint Drukpa Kunley also known as the Divine Madman.
Locally sought by citizens accros Bhutan as well as foreigners, this temple is also known as the fertility temple. The veracity to this information is vouched by the locals as well as those around the world. Traditionally the recipient of the blessings from this temple will have their child named Kunley.

The journey to the temple will take roughly 20 minutes.
Climbers will be led through the sprawling fertile paddy fields and the charming villange of Sosokha Valley.

Punakha Suspension Bridge

One of the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, spanning 160 -180m and perched high above the very swift river of Po Chhu. Draped with prayer flags, the bridge connects the town of Punakha and the Punakha Dzong, mainly used by locals from the other side of the town as a shortcut to Punakha Dzong.

Tip: This bridge is perfect for travelers wishing to get a quick adrenaline shot.

White-Water Rafting

Famed for the confluence of the two rivers and the scenic view along the Punakha Valley, White-water rafting in Bhutan is slowly gaining the attention of tourist to Bhutan. There are two paths that rafters can pick. The first is the Mo Chhu river is a 10km course with 10 rapids of class 2-2+.

The second choice will be the Po Chhu river, a slightly tougher course with 15 rapids of class between 2-4 spanning 16km.