Punakha is a town in the Himalayas of Bhutan. It's known for the Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress at the juncture of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. The fortress hosts the Punakha Tshechu, a religious festival featuring masked dances and music. In the surrounding Punakha Valley, temples include the fertility-focused Chimi Lhakhang and the hilltop Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which has river and mountain views. ― Google
Known for: Majestic Punakha Dzong, lush valleys, confluence of rivers, and serene natural beauty
Location: Punakha Valley, western Bhutan, about 90 km from Thimphu at ~1,200 meters (3,900 ft) elevation
September to November:
✅ Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, ideal for trekking and sightseeing
March to May:
✅ Rhododendron blooms and pleasant weather
December to February:
❄️ Cooler, sometimes foggy mornings, but generally dry
June to August:
🌧️ Monsoon season — lush but wet, some trails might be slippery
🚗 By Car/Taxi:
Approx. 3-hour drive from Thimphu through scenic mountain roads
🚌 Local buses and shared taxis also available from Thimphu
One of Bhutan’s most beautiful and important dzongs
Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers
Famous for its architecture, detailed woodwork, and annual Punakha Tshechu festival
Served as the seat of Bhutan’s government until 1955
Longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, connecting the dzong with surrounding villages
Offers stunning views of the valley and rivers
Known as the “Temple of the Divine Madman”
Popular for blessings related to fertility and childbirth
Located a short hike from Punakha town
On the way from Thimphu to Punakha, known for 108 chortens (stupas) and panoramic Himalayan views on clear days
Trails through rice fields, villages, and forests
Walks to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery for peaceful views
Tour the Punakha Dzong and learn about Bhutanese history
Cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge and enjoy river views
Visit Chimi Lhakhang and participate in local rituals
Take guided nature walks or short hikes in the surrounding hills
Attend the Punakha Tshechu Festival (usually in February/March)
Uma by COMO, Punakha – Luxury resort surrounded by nature
Zhingkham Resort & Spa – Comfortable and scenic setting
Riverside Resort – Riverside location with modern amenities
Punakha Dzong Resort
Merithang Guest House
Mountain Lodge
Hotel Damchen
Punakha Guest House
Zamling Guest House
Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew)
Phaksha Paa (pork with chili)
Red rice and buckwheat bread
Butter tea and local snacks
Mountain Cafe – Good variety of Bhutanese and international dishes
Punakha Food Garden – Traditional local cuisine
Zhingkham Resort Restaurant – Fine dining in nature setting
Lotus Café – Casual dining with vegetarian options
Punakha remains a spiritual center with many active monasteries
Festivals and rituals are integral to local life
Agriculture is predominant — rice cultivation thrives in the fertile valley
Respect for Buddhist traditions and dress code is important
🥾 Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths and temple visits
🎒 Carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for hikes
🎫 Entry fee may apply for some dzongs and cultural sites
📵 Respect photography rules inside religious buildings
💵 Carry cash for local shops and transport, as card facilities are rare