Punakha Tour Packages

Best Time to Visit: Punakha enjoys a temperate climate. March to May is mild and ideal for exploring the dzongs and valleys. June to August sees moderate rainfall, enhancing the greenery. September to November offers clear skies and pleasant weather. December to February is cooler, with crisp mornings.

Visa for Indians: Entry permit issued upon arrival

Top Destinations:
Thimphu: Dzongs, cultural landmarks, nature
Paro: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, cultural sites, scenic views
Phobjikha Valley: Nature, trekking, wildlife
Haa Valley: Scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, remote villages

Ideal Trip Duration:
2-3 days: Punakha and Thimphu for a cultural and nature trip
4-5 days: Add Paro for a combination of spiritual and scenic exploration Punakha, a district in Bhutan, is a beautiful and fertile valley at an elevation of 1200m, surrounded by stunning views of the Himalayas. It is known for its excellent terrain for rice cultivation, thanks to the convergence of two rivers - Po Chhu and Mo Chhu. The place can be reached within 3 hours from Thimphu and is warmer than other nearby places. With plenty of slopes, Punakha is ideal for trekking and mountain biking. In addition, the Po Chhu River offers an exciting river rafting experience. The second oldest dzong of Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong, is located here and is an architectural marvel. 

Best Experiences in Punakh

• White water rafting: White water rafting in Punakha is a thrilling experience! You get to navigate through the choppy waters of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, fed by the melting Himalayan glaciers. The rapids can get intense; you must work together to paddle through them as a team. However, it's an adrenaline rush as the icy water splashes against your face and the wind whips through your hair. Plus, the scenic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains are breathtaking! It's an adventure worth trying if you're excited and want to uniquely experience the beauty of Bhutan's natural landscapes.
• Hiking to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: If you're up for a scenic and challenging hike, the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is worth checking out! The hike takes you through lush forests and over suspension bridges, and the stunning views of the Punakha Valley are breathtaking. Once you reach the Chorten, the intricate architecture and design of the temple are impressive. It's not an easy hike, as you'll have to navigate some steep inclines and stairs, but the satisfaction when you reach the top is worth it. It's a great way to experience Bhutan's natural beauty and culture at the same time.
• Walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge: Walking across the Punakha Suspension Bridge is an experience unlike any other! As you step onto the bridge, you feel the wooden planks creaking beneath your feet and the bridge's sway as it crosses the rushing Pho Chu River. The views from the bridge are stunning, with lush green forests and mountains all around you. Crossing the bridge can be a little nerve-wracking, especially if you're afraid of heights, but the experience's thrill is worth it! Plus, there's a real camaraderie as you cross the bridge alongside other visitors, all united by a sense of adventure and wonder at the beauty of Bhutan's landscapes. It's a bucket list experience you will remember sometime soon!
• Take a guided tour of Chimi Lhakhang: Taking a guided tour of Chimi Lhakhang is an eye-opening experience that gives you a glimpse into Bhutan's unique cultural and religious practices. Also known as the "Temple of Fertility," the Chimi Lhakhang is a revered site for locals and tourists alike. The temple is in a picturesque village, and the walk there is beautiful, with fields of crops and traditional houses dotting the landscape. Once you reach the temple, you'll see colorful murals and traditional Bhutanese architecture, including phalluses painted on the walls - a symbol of fertility and good luck. The guide will explain the significance of the phalluses and the temple's connection to Bhutanese folklore. It's a fascinating place to visit, and the guide's explanations make it even more meaningful. Plus, the friendly and welcoming attitude of the locals is a real highlight of the experience.
• Trekking in Jigme Dorji National Park: If you're up for a real adventure, then trekking in Jigme Dorji National Park is an experience that's hard to beat! The park is home to some of Bhutan's most stunning natural landscapes. Trekking through the park is a great way to get up close to the natural beauty of Bhutan as you hike through mountain passes and across rushing streams. Along the way, you'll likely encounter various wildlife, from playful monkeys to majestic deer. It's a true adventure that will test your limits and leave you with unforgettable moments.

Places to Visit in Punakha

• Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong is Bhutan's second oldest and second largest dzong. It was used as the government's seat from 1953 to 1955. It is culturally significant as it houses sacred relics of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal, the Tibetan Buddhist lama who united Bhutan. In addition, the dzong showcases unique Bhutanese architecture and is a historic landmark.
• Dochula Pass: Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in Bhutan where 108 memorial chortens (or stupas) were built to honor Bhutanese soldiers who died in military operations. The chortens are called 'Druk Wangyal Chortens.' You'll also see colorful flags in blue, red, green, white, and yellow on the hills around the pass. These flags represent the sky, fire, water, clouds, and earth. The flags have prayers written on them, symboling respect and good wishes for peace and prosperity.
• Ritsha Village: Ritsha, meaning "at the base of the hill," is a village in Punakha, Bhutan, where they grow red and white rice. It lies on the banks of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers. The village is surrounded by rivers, paddy fields, and hills, which makes it super pretty. It's primarily famous for its rice production and is a must-visit in Punakha.
• Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery: Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery is a temple and nunnery located in Punakha, Bhutan. It's on a ridge with a great view of Punakha, Wangduephodrang, and Toebesa Valleys. There used to be 41 nuns with 70 rooms, but now there are over a hundred nuns. The nunnery has a 14-foot statue of Avalokiteshvara and a few other bronze statues. Je Khenpo, a holy person, blessed it. The temple is double-storied and has a chorten resembling the Boudhanath stupa in Nepal. You can meditate there and enjoy the amazing view of Punakha Valley.

How Many Days are Enough to Visit Punakha?

To get the best out of your trip to Punakha, it's recommended that you plan to stay for at least 1-2 days, visiting many famous landmarks. Then, take the opportunity to explore the local markets, try the delicious cuisine, and learn about the traditions and culture of the Bhutanese people. The, with a more extended visit, you'll fully appreciate Punakha's beauty and serenity.

Best Time to Visit Punakha

Punakha in Bhutan is best visited from March to July during spring. The cool and pleasant temperature, low humidity, and 1-2 days of monthly rainfall make it the busiest time for tourism. It is also the best time to indulge in adventure sports like rafting and trekking. The blooming flowers and breathtaking views make it a perfect destination during this season. Booking tickets and accommodations in advance is recommended to avoid surges. June-August sees heavy rainfall, and September-November is chilly with less tourism. December-February is off-season due to the frigid temperatures.

Why Should You Buy Packages for Punakha?

Buying packages for Punakha is an excellent idea for anyone who wants to have a hassle-free and unforgettable trip. Punakha is a beautiful place with so much to see and do, but planning everything yourself can be overwhelming. When you buy a package, you get the advantage of having everything taken care of, from flights and accommodation to transportation and tours. Packages are usually cheaper than booking everything separately, so you save money too. You can also customize your package to suit your preferences and budget, ensuring a personalized experience that fits your needs perfectly. With a package, you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the details. (Read More)