Punakha is a small city located in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan. It is the capital of the Punakha Dzongkhag (district) and was the capital of Bhutan until 1955. Punakha is known for its beautiful scenery, ancient monasteries, and unique culture. It is a popular tourist destination for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of Bhutan. Here are the top 20 places to see in Punakha Bhutan.
1. Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong is a 17th century fortress located in the Punakha Valley. It is one of the most impressive and well-preserved dzongs in Bhutan. The dzong was built in 1637 by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan. It serves as the administrative and religious center of the Punakha district.
2. Chimi Lhakhang: Chimi Lhakhang is a Buddhist temple located on a hilltop in the Punakha Valley. The temple was built in 1499 by the 14th-century saint Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” The temple is known for its fertility blessing which is said to bless couples who are unable to conceive.
3. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: The Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a stunning temple located on a hill overlooking the Punakha Valley. The temple was built in the late 19th century by Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and features intricate carvings and statues of Buddhist deities.
4. Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery: The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery is a Buddhist nunnery located near Punakha. The nunnery was founded in the 16th century by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is home to over 40 nuns. The nunnery is known for its beautiful murals and sculptures.
5. Talo Monastery: Talo Monastery is a 17th-century Buddhist monastery located in the Punakha Valley. The monastery was founded by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is home to over 200 monks. It is known for its intricate carvings and statues of Buddhist deities.
6. Punakha Suspension Bridge: The Punakha Suspension Bridge is a suspension bridge that crosses the Mo Chhu River. The bridge was built in the 16th century by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is a popular tourist attraction.
7. Dochu La Pass: Dochu La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Punakha Valley. The pass is located at an altitude of 3,100 meters and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is also home to 108 chortens (stupas) which were built to honor the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
8. Tashichho Dzong: Tashichho Dzong is a 17th-century fortress located in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The dzong is home to the royal family and is an important administrative and religious center. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.
9. Chhimi Lhakhang Festival: The Chhimi Lhakhang Festival is held annually in Punakha to celebrate the birth of the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kuenley. During the festival, locals and tourists gather to witness traditional Bhutanese dances and songs.
10. Sopsokha Village: Sopsokha Village is a small village located in the Punakha Valley. The village is known for its traditional Bhutanese architecture and is home to a few temples and monasteries. It is a popular tourist destination for those looking to experience traditional Bhutanese life.
11. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong: Wangdue Phodrang Dzong is a 17th-century fortress located in the Punakha Valley. The dzong was built by the Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is an important administrative and religious center. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.
12. Dzongchung Temple: Dzongchung Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Punakha Valley. The temple was built in the 17th century and is home to a few monks. It is known for its intricate carvings and statues of Buddhist deities.
13. Punakha Bazaar: Punakha Bazaar is a market located in the Punakha Valley. The bazaar is known for its traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and is a popular tourist destination.
14. Punakha Ritsha: Punakha Ritsha is a traditional Bhutanese festival held in the Punakha Valley. During the festival, locals and tourists gather to witness traditional Bhutanese dances and songs.
15. Punakha Tshechu: Punakha Tshechu is a religious festival held annually in the Punakha Valley. During the festival, locals and tourists gather to witness traditional Bhutanese dances and songs.
16. Talo Monastery Festival: The Talo Monastery Festival is held annually in the Punakha Valley. During the festival, locals and tourists gather to witness traditional Bhutanese dances and songs.
18. Phobjikha Valley: The Phobjikha Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Punakha Valley. The valley is known for its stunning scenery and is home to many rare species of birds. It is a popular tourist destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Bhutan.
19. Punakha Valley Trek: The Punakha Valley Trek is a popular trekking route that takes you through the Punakha Valley. The trek is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and is a popular tourist destination.
20. Punakha Hot Springs: Punakha Hot Springs are located in the Punakha Valley. The hot springs are known for their healing properties and are a popular tourist destination.