Thimpu to Punakha

28-seater Eicher buses can be your best options while travelling because private buses are comfier than government-run buses. However, if the fare is concerned, government buses are extremely cheaper with around 20-55 BTN fare than the private buses. Those with motion sickness and vomiting tendency would find the private bus journeys more smooth and enjoy superb views on the way, especially from window seats.

The route has an abundance of vibrant deciduous forest with small hamlets peeping out at regular intervals with the colourful buildings. The private buses often slow down while passing a spectacular viewpoint, and if you are lucky, you will catch a glimpse or get a shot. 

The buses halt at the Punakha Dzong against the backdrop of Mo Chhu and Paro chu confluence. The temples and administrative offices are here, and you will also get to have your breakfast/brunch/lunch here.             

Bus Options Available 
1. CEE DEE Transport –Runs daily, departs at 2 PM and reaches at 4 PM
2. Government-run Buses –Runs daily and at regular interval. The first bus starts at 8:30 AM and reaches at 11:30 AM approximately.  

Time Taken: 2-3 hours maximum.

Undoubtedly, the best option to travel from Thimphu to Punakha is to take a private car or taxi or drive your own vehicle. Balmy and windy, the national highway monitored by Border Security Force will offer you the majestic view of Dochu La overlooking the verdant landscape of Punakha Valley.

Note: Leave as early as possible to avoid traffic and catch the clear panoramic view of the mountains from Dochu La. Stop to take a look at the 108 chortens of Druk Wangyal, the fluttering prayer flags and the vibrant, intricate temples speaking about the architecture and culture of Bhutan.

Route Options
Via Thimphu-Punakha Highway Or Thimphu-Wangdue Phodrang Highway (84.6 Kilometers)
From Doeboom Lam, head southwest towards Jangchhub Lam and take the first exit at the roundabout onto the Dzogchhen Lam followed by Chang lam one and Chhogyal Lam to find Babesa-Thimphu Expressway. Continue on Bumthang-Ura Highway and turn right to follow the Thimphu-Punakha Highway or Thimphu-Wandue Phodrang Highway (PNH1) for about an hour to reach Dochu La. The 108 chortens stand as the centrepiece of the road –encircle around it twice and continue for about 1.5 hours to find Trashigang-Semtokha Highway. Drive for around 45 minutes to reach Punakha Dzong.

Time Taken: 2-3 hours, depending on your pit stops.
Cost: According to the season, the fare ranges between 2,000-3,000 BTN. A bit bargaining might come handy. Generally, it is 1,200 BTN for a small car, 1,500 BTN for Sumo, 1,800 BTN for Tavera or Innova and 2,100 BTN for 11-seater large cars.

Food Options: On the way to Dochu La, you will find roadside vendors selling fresh yak milk, cheese cubes, dry fruits and fresh apples.

Road Conditions
If you compare the route with that of Paro-Thimphu Highway, the Thimphu-Punakha Highway for about 75 kilometres is not that excellent with its mixture of gravel or dirt tracks and old paved roads. But, as the road ascends to Dochu La (3,150 meters) and descends afterwards with 108 magnificent chortens (built-in memory of Bhutanese soldiers martyred in 2003 in the hands of Indian insurgents) as one of the most popular tourist attractions, you will be amazed to see the snow-swathed mountain range and some of the greatest Himalayan peaks including the Gangkhar Puensum (the highest peak in Bhutan).