Overview
Punakha lies at just 1,200 meters elevation, making it one of Bhutan's warmest valleys—a welcome respite from chillier highlands. The valley is broad and fertile, filled with rice paddies, banana groves, and scattered farmhouses. At its heart, where the Mo Chhu (mother river) and Pho Chhu (father river) converge, stands the magnificent Punakha Dzong. This fortress-monastery served as Bhutan's capital and seat of government until 1955 and remains the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (chief abbot) and the central monastic body. The valley is also famous for Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple of the "Divine Madman," and offers excellent opportunities for short hikes and river rafting.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Chimi Lhakhang
River Rafting
Suspension Bridge
Punakha Farmland
Highlights of Punakha
Top Attractions
Punakha Dzong
The "Palace of Great Happiness" is Bhutan's most majestic dzong, strategically built at the confluence of two rivers in 1637. The interior features stunning woodwork, massive assembly halls, and precious relics. All Bhutanese kings have been crowned here.
Chimi Lhakhang
The fertility temple of Drukpa Kunley, the "Divine Madman," attracts couples hoping for children. Reached via a lovely 20-minute walk through rice paddies. The village is known for its painted phalluses (a symbol of the saint's unconventional methods).
Suspension Bridge
Bhutan's longest suspension bridge (approximately 230m long and 1.2m wide) spans the Po Chhu river near Punakha Dzong. Draped in prayer flags, it offers great photo opportunities and connects to a riverside trail.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
A beautiful stupa on a hilltop across the valley. The 30-minute uphill hike through terraced fields rewards with panoramic valley views and impressive religious art inside.
Mo Chhu River Rafting
The Mo Chhu offers exciting Class II-III rapids perfect for beginners and intermediates. The scenic 10km stretch passes Punakha Dzong—a unique perspective on the fortress.
Unique Experiences
- ✨ Witness Punakha Drubchen (February/March) with warrior dances
- ✨ Walk through emerald rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang
- ✨ River rafting on the Mo Chhu
- ✨ Visit during spring for jacaranda trees in bloom
- ✨ Overnight at a riverside resort
- ✨ Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
- ✨ See the royal wedding venue inside Punakha Dzong
Practical Information
Getting There
3-hour drive from Thimphu via Dochula Pass (3,100m), where 108 memorial chortens offer stunning Himalayan views on clear days. The descent into Punakha reveals dramatically different, subtropical vegetation.
Getting Around
All sights are accessed by vehicle plus short walks. The valley is relatively compact.
Accommodation
Several excellent resorts along the river (Dhensa, COMO Uma Punakha) plus mid-range hotels and farmhouse stays. Fewer options than Paro/Thimphu, so book ahead.
Weather
Significantly warmer than Paro/Thimphu due to lower altitude. Pleasant October-March. Very hot May-August. Rice planting (May-June) and harvest (October-November) are scenic times.