Places to Visit in Punakha

Standing regally on the hill above the Punakha valley, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a classic example of beautiful traditions and architecture of Bhutan. The temple was built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother for warding off the negative forces and bringing peace and harmony for all the living beings. The thing that sets this Chorten apart is that it was built on the principals described in the Holy Scriptures rather than modern engineering manuals. The golden spire and intricate wall patterns are fine example of art and tradition of Bhutan.

Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan and stretches up to a length of approximately 520 feet! You can enjoy spectacular views of the river flowing underneath the bridge or the valleys rolling in every direction. Made with solid planks of wood and cables anchored to massive cement block, the bridge is surprisingly stable for its length and is covered in colourful religious flags at all points. It also acts as a starting point for several multi-day trekking trips in the region, so make sure to include this attraction in your Bhutan tour packages.

You can also stopover at the bridge if you are visiting the famous Punakha Dzong as it lies only half a mile away from the religious centre. You simply have to head north from the dzong, walk past the cremation grounds and follow the river to reach the bridge.

Having an altitude of 3400 meters this is one of the easiest and the most popular trekking journey among amateur trekkers through the ancient capital of Bhutan, Punakha. The trekking trail commences from Thimphu and concludes in the beautiful Punakha valley. Being a short trek, the gradual slopes on the trekking trail does not seem to be too much concern for the hikers, make usre to include this in your Bhutan tour packages

The old foot trail snakes through luscious valleys, green landscapes, dense forestlands and golden rice fields. The trail crosses through Phajoding Monastery and beautiful Sinchula Pass. Due to low altitude and much warmer climate, the trek is often preferred during winters.

Highlights: Phajoding Monastry

Duration: 4 days/3 nights

Location: Punakha, Bhutan

Best Season: March to May, September to November are considered as ideal time, however it can be done during December to February too.

The magnificent and tranquil Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery sits atop a hill and commands the view of the gorgeous Punakha valley and Wangduephodrang valley. Standing amidst the lush pine trees, this structure is a beautiful demonstration of fine architecture and tradition of Bhutan. Including a visit to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery in Bhutan tour packages allows travelers to immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of this sacred site while experiencing the cultural heritage of the country.

The gleaming white washed walls are complemented by the richly carved woods painted in black, red and golden colour and decorated with illustrious designs. The temple is home to a colossal 14 feet bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara. There are several other statues inside the temple. Inside the complex there is a meditation centre of nuns.

Highlights: The temple provides a gorgeous view of the surrounding value and tranquil environment for peace and meditation. You also get an opportunity for bird watching and witnessing river smoke, an interesting and rare natural phenomenon.

Location: The temple complex is located in Wangdue.

Timing: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Prices: N/A

Punakha Dzong, known as 'The Palace of Great Happiness,' is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. It was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The dzong (palace) is nestled at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in the beautiful Punakha Valley. Its rustic beauty and natural surroundings make it a must-visit stop for travelers considering Bhutan packages, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating allure of Bhutan's cultural and natural heritage.

Torsa is one of the most famous tourist attractions for it is the only Nature Reserve in the world which has not been destroyed by human inhabitation. It is adorned with beautiful alpine and broad leaves tree forests, making it a favoured trekking route in Bhutan. The name came to existence from the River Toorsa which penetrates from Tibet.

Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress in Bhutan, stands as a symbol of the nation's resilience and cultural legacy. Built in the 17th century to commemorate victory over Tibetan invaders, it once served as a strategic stronghold. Despite being in ruins today, following a fire, it remains a poignant reminder of Bhutan's past glory and military prowess. Including a visit to Drukgyel Dzong adds depth to any Bhutan trip, offering insights into the country's rich history and heritage.

Highlights: If you want to have a view of the splendid architectural and artistic vision of the Bhutanese culture, this is the perfect place to visit. The place has become a huge tourist attraction place as it is one of its kind in the world. The extensive rice fields and miniature chortens that surround the temple also add up to the nice aura.

Location: It is located in the region of Punakha in Bhutan

Timings: There is no timing as such but since it’s a temple, the ideal timings are from early morning to evening.

Pricing: Visit to the temple and surrounding regions is completely free of cost.

Punakha is the Punakha Dzong’s administrative centre which is the second largest and the second oldest dzong in Bhutan. Some may even refer to the Punakha Dzong as the Palace of Great Happiness or the Pungthang Dewachen Phodrang.

Visit Jigme Dorji National Park to explore Bhutan's natural paradise, where a variety of plants and animals coexist peacefully. Here, you can witness Takin (Bhutan’s national animal) and admire the beauty of the Blue Poppy (Bhutan’s national flower). This Park can impress you with its large wildlife population, which includes over 300 different bird species. You can also spot the snow leopard and Bengal tiger, two endangered species thriving here as a result of conservation initiatives.

A popular annual festival, Punakha Tshechu and Drubchen gets celebrated in Punakha which is located in the western side of Bhutan. The festival has great historical importance which makes it more popular among natives. In 17thcentury, Tibetan forces invaded Bhutan from where Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Buddhist saint, led the victory of the country.

Zangdo Pelri Temple, nestled in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan, is a serene sanctuary revered for its spiritual significance. Constructed in the style of Guru Rinpoche's celestial abode, it exudes an aura of tranquility and devotion. The temple's intricate architecture and vibrant paintings offer a glimpse into Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. Including a visit to Zangdo Pelri Temple in Bhutan tour packages allows travelers to experience the spiritual essence of the country while marveling at its architectural splendor.

Highlights: Zangdo Pelri Temple is a magnificent place in Bhutan that definitely deserves your attention. On the earth level of this temple, you can find the statues of Guru along with his eight Manifestations. The wall is enclosed with several paintings taken from the life of Buddha. On the second floor of the temple, you can find statues of Avalokiteshwaram, eight Bodhisattavas and Shubdrung Nawang Namgyal. Finally, on the top floor you can see the main statue of the Buddha Amitabha.

Location: Zangdo Pelri Temple is located near the weekend market in Phuntsholing in Bhutan.

Timings: Can be visited from dawn to dusk each day.

Pricing: Entry is free.

One of the most revered temples of Bhutan, Chimi L’hakhang is considered as the temple of fertility, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, popularly known as the Divine Madman. Lama Drukpa Kuenley is a legendary saint in Bhutan, who is much revered in the country but because of his unusual way of teaching, he is considered an eccentric. Visiting this sacred site is a highlight of Bhutan trip packages, offering insight into the country's spiritual heritage and the unique character of its revered saints. 

People from all across the country come to the temple to pray for children. The couples visiting the temple are sanctified with a wooden phallus, the imitation of the saint’s iron bow and arrows and his scriptures. Surrounded by the abundant paddy fields this temple is a must visit.

Location: The temple lies on the edge of the Lobesa valley on the confluence of the borders of Thimphu, Punakha and Wangduephodrang.

Best time/season: The best time to visit the Chimi L'hakhang Temple is spring and autumn.

Approx Price: N/A

Difficulty Level: N/A

the places to visit in Bhutan have a certain charm of their own wherever you go in this country.