Punakha

Till 1955, Punakha was the capital of Bhutan, before the capital was shifted to its present location at Thimphu. The picture-perfect dzong (fortress) of Punakha is probably one of the most iconic pictures representing Bhutan. After Thimphu and Paro, Punakha is the most popular tourist destination of Bhutan.

The town of Punakha is located on the western side of Bhutan. It is the administrative centre of one of the 20 districts of Bhutan. Situated at an altitude of 1200m and in the juncture of the famous Pho chhu and Mo chhu River, Punakha is well known for its pristine beauty. The land of Punakha offers a majestic view of the Himalayas. Away from the capital Thimphu, Punakha with its scenic mountains, valley and rivers offers a serene atmosphere to the tourists. Punakha is also the land of monasteries. Punakha occupies a special place in the spiritual and the social evolution of Bhutan. There are some important and attractive places present here which a tourist should not miss.

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is the topmost attraction in Punakha and one of the premier attractions in the whole Bhutan. This majestic structure in the backdrop of the great Himalayas and at the confluence of the Pho chhu and Mo chhu River is the second oldest and the second largest Dzong of Bhutan. Punakha Dzong with its glorious history of close to 400 years is one of the most revered places in the country. Legend says that Guru Rinpoche ( Guru Padmasambhava) predicted the present location and construction of the Dzong long back. In the early part of the 14th century, there was already a small monastery exist with a statue of Lord Buddha. But as predicted by Guru Rinpoche in the year 1637, Shabdrung.

Ngawang Namgyal the first Zhabdrung Rinpoche and the father of United Bhutan initiated the construction of the current Dzong. In a span of one year, the Dzong was built. The Dzong is a visual delight for the tourists. It is set amidst the valley and guarded by the mountains overlooking the confluence of the rivers. It is a stunningly beautiful structure. The entire building is a classic example of Tibetan style architecture with some unique and distinctive features. The beautiful woodwork of the Dzong is worth mentioning. The Dzong is 180m long and 72m wide. This structure has three courtyards whereas most of the Dzong in Bhutan has two. This huge landmark preserves the history, culture, heritage and the spiritual legacy of Bhutan. The Dzong houses administrative offices, monks quarters, temple, the stupa, important religious statues, shrines, frescos and extremely important relics and Buddhist scriptures. The Dzong houses the preserves of the remains of the father of Unified Bhutan Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and the sacred relic Ranjung karsapani which is a self-created image of Avalokiteswara. This image is not open to the tourists and it is considered as one of the most important national treasures of the country. The Dzong also houses the legendary four friends painting. The Dzong is the must-visit place for the travellers.

Timings - The Dzong remains open till 5 pm. It opens at 8.30 am. Though in winter (November to January) it opens at 11 am. During 1-3 pm it remains close due to Lunch hour.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

One of the popular destinations in Punakha. This place offers a panoramic view of the mountains and the valleys and the flowing rivers. This shrine was built to wipe away the evil spirit and to bring prosperity, harmony and peace. The place is famous for Buddha statues and mural paintings which preaches the teachings and values of Buddhism. The Chorten symbolises the brilliance of the Bhutanese architecture.

Dochula Pass

Situated at an altitude of 3140m this is a must-visit place. Considered as one of the highest points of Bhutan it offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range. The ultimate view of the mountains and the cloud soaked valley from Dochula is a lifetime experience. Dochula pass which is on the road to Punakha from Thimphu is also a site of 108 stupas built by the Queen mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk.

Chimi Lhakhang

Built-in 14th century by the Drukpa King Ngawang Choegyel this monastery is known as the Temple of Fertility. It is believed that if a couple without children pray here for baby, they get the blessings and their wish get fulfilled. This was built to worship the famous Buddhist master Lam Drupa kuenley. This is an important tourist destination here. The journey to this temple is a rewarding experience as one can see the beauty of village life here.

Punakha Suspension Bridge

This is the second-longest suspension bridge in Bhutan and one of the oldest of its type in the world. Perched over the Mo and Pho chhu River this bridge is a perfect place to enjoy and experience the spectacular beauty of nature. The view from here is stunning. This is an ideal place for bird lovers also.

Jigme Dorji National Park

This is the second-largest national park in Bhutan. This place is well known for its enriched biodiversity. A portion of this park covers the Punakha district. This is a bird watchers paradise. The park houses Himalayan black beer, red panda, blue sheep, snow leopard and few other species.

Talo Village

Situated at an altitude of 2800m, talo is one of the most beautiful villages in Punakha. This is also one of the cleanest villages in the county. Talo is known for its mesmerising beauty. The village is located on the slopes of the mountain and surrounded by the lush green valleys. The entire village is an abode of beauty and peace. The village has a beautiful monastery.

How to reach Punakha

Paro is the nearest airport and it is the only airport in Bhutan. Paro to Punakha is around 126 km and takes 3.5 hrs approximately to reach. From the capital Thimphu, it takes about two and a half hour to get to Punakha. Distance is 83 km. As a foreigner, you have to go to Thimphu first as the permit to visit Punakha is issued from here.

Best time to visit

Punakha has a moderate climate. Winter is enjoyable. It is not extremely cold in winter. Summer is hot and humid here. October to April is the best time to visit however Punakha is such a place which can be visited throughout the year.