10 Things to Do in Punakha Dzongkhag, Punakha Bhutan
Punakha Dzongkhag is a beautiful district in the northwestern part of Bhutan. It is located in the Punakha-Wangdue Phodrang valley, and is home to some of the most stunning and unique attractions in the country. From ancient monasteries and temples to pristine nature reserves and rivers, Punakha Dzongkhag has something for everyone. Here are 10 of the best things to do when visiting Punakha Dzongkhag.
1. Visit Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong is one of the most iconic buildings in all of Bhutan. It is a fortress-monastery that was built in 1637 and served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955. The dzong is home to a number of ancient artifacts and is a must-see for anyone visiting Punakha.
2. Take a Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: This stunning chorten, or stupa, was built in 2004 and is a great spot for a day hike. The hike takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Bhutan, and you can get a great view of the Punakha Valley from the top.
3. Explore the Punakha Suspension Bridge: This bridge was built in 2004 and spans the Mo Chu River. It is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
4. Visit the Chimi Lhakhang: This temple is located on a hilltop and is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. It is dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” a Buddhist saint who is said to have used humor to spread Buddhism.
5. Take a Rafting Trip on the Mo Chu River: The Mo Chu River is one of the best spots for white-water rafting in Bhutan. It is a great way to explore the stunning landscape of Punakha Dzongkhag and get an adrenaline rush at the same time.
6. Visit the Dochu La Pass: This pass is located between Punakha and Thimphu, and is the highest point on the road between the two cities. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is a great spot for a picnic.
7. Explore the Nature Reserves: Punakha Dzongkhag is home to some of the best nature reserves in Bhutan. These include the Phobjikha Valley Nature Reserve and the Jigme Dorji National Park. These reserves are great spots for bird watching, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
8. Visit the Royal Botanical Garden: This garden is located in the Punakha Valley and is home to a variety of exotic plants and trees. It is a great spot for a leisurely stroll and to learn about the flora of Bhutan.
9. Take a Trip to the Talo Monastery: This monastery is located on a hilltop and is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It is a great spot to explore the culture and history of the country.
10. Go Shopping in Punakha: Punakha is home to a number of great shops and markets, where you can find everything from traditional Bhutanese clothing to handcrafted souvenirs. It is a great spot for a little retail therapy.
Punakha Dzongkhag is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the culture and natural beauty of Bhutan. With its stunning monasteries, nature reserves, and rivers, it is sure to be a trip to remember.