The beautiful valley of Punakha is located in western Bhutan, at an average elevation of 1200m above sea level, a two-hour pleasant drive from Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. A quaint little town, Punakha served as the old capital of Bhutan until 1955.
One of the major attractions in Punakha is the majestic 17th century Punakha Dzong also referred to as Pungthang Dewai Chenpoi Phodrang – the Palace of Great Bliss, built on the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. These rivers are also habitats of the critically engendered White-Bellied Herons.
Punakha Valley has a pleasant climate with warm winters and hot summers. A large part of the valley is filled with terraced paddy fields. It is little surprise that Punakha is considered the rice bowl of Bhutan, one of the biggest rice producers in the country.
Festival Highlights
Punakha Tshechu
Punakha Tshechu (festival of mask dances) was introduced by the 70th Je Khenpo Trulku Jigme Choedra in 2005. During the Tshechu, various mask dances are performed. The Tshechu ends with the unfurling of Thongdrol – giant applique.
Punakha Dromchoe
Punakha Dromchoe is a dramatic recreation of the scenes from the 17th century battle with invading army from Tibet. During the Dromchoe, ‘pazaps’ or local militia, dressed in traditional battle gear, re-enact the ancient battle scene.
Talo Tshechu
The three-day Talo Tsehchu is held at Talo Sangnacholing Dzong. The festival is more than 300-year old and is popular for its mask dances, Atsara dances, and classical folk dance.
CLIMATE
The climate is mild and generally warm and temperate.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Spring, Autumn, Winter
CLOSEST AIRPORT
Paro International Airport
DISTANCE FROM THIMPHU
2 hr 10 min (74 km) via Thimphu-Punakha Highway
PLACES TO SEE
Punakha Dzong
Moored like a ship at the confluence of two rivers, Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, Punakha Dzong is arguably one of the most magnificent fortresses in Bhutan. The Founder of the Bhutanese state, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, built the Dzong in 1637. It houses the sacred relic, Rangjung Kharapani - a self-emanated image of Avalokitestvara - and the embalmed body of Zhabdrung.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Located to the north of Punakha Dzong, the regal Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten stands atop a ridge, overlooking the expansive valley. Built in 2004, the tiered Stupa measures 30-meters tall. The interiors of the Chorten is painted with pageant of characters from the annals of Vajrayana Buddhism, including one protector deity pictured riding a shaggy brown migoi or yeti.
Chimi Lhakhang
Built in 1949, the sacred Chimi Lhakhang stands atop a round hillock near the idyllic village of Sopkshokha. The maverick saint Lam Drukpa Kunley, also known as ‘Divine Madman’ is said to have subdued a demon at the site of the temple. The temple houses the original wooden symbol of phallus that Lam Drukpa Kunley brought from Tibet. Known as the temple of fertility, this wooden phallus, decorated with a silver handle, is used to bless people who visit the temple on pilgrimage, particularly women seeking blessings to beget children.
THINGS TO DO
Bird Watching
The river basin of Punakha is a rich habitat of rare species of birds, including the critically endangered White-Bellied Heron. Bird watchers will certainly spot a wide range of bird species in Punakha.
Visit the Longest Suspension Bridge
Punakha boasts the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. Measuring around 180 meters, the suspense bridge is stretched over the swift Pho Chuu. Crossing it is definitely a must-do.
Hike to Kabji Hoka Lake
Located at an altitude of about 2,000m, the trail towards the Kabji Hoka Tsho (Lake) starts from Chorten Nyingbo. This stunning and tranquil lake is hidden amidst a thick jungle vegetation and it is considered one of the must visit places in Punakha for a day excursion.
White Water Rafting
For thrill seekers, white water rafting on the two iconic rivers of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu is certainly a must-do while in Punakha. The choppy rapids of Mo Chhu and the tougher course on Pho Chhu offer thrilling experiences. Local travel agents provide rafting services.
