Punakha

About Punakha

Set at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers, Punakha served as Bhutan's capital until 1955 and remains the winter residence of the monastic body. Punakha Dzong, with its whitewashed walls and jacaranda trees, is widely considered the most beautiful fortress in the kingdom. The valley's lower altitude means a warmer climate, lush rice terraces, and easy walks to sites like Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the 'Divine Madman' Drukpa Kunley.

Highlights

• Punakha Dzong at the river confluence
• Punakha Suspension Bridge
• Chimi Lhakhang fertility temple
• Dochula Pass (108 chortens) en route
• Rice terrace walks
• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten