Punakha is served as the capital of the country from 1637 to 1907 and the first national assembly was hosted here in 1953. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and one of the most majestic structures in the country.
Punakha is a warm valley drained by the famous Phochu and Mochu (male and female rivers) which come together beyond an island that is the gorgeous location for perhaps the most gorgeous dzongs in Bhutan. Across a stunning pass from Thimphu, the valley is lush with paddy and tropical fruits and vegetation.
Attractions
Punakha Dzong
According to a local legend, the sage Padmasambhava prophesized that “a person named Namgyal will arrive at a...
Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass is the most picturesque among the high mountain passes of Bhutan is the one between the...
Chimi Lhakhang
Chimi Lhakhang, at about 15 minutes’ drive away from Punakha, is a monastery dedicated to the famous saint...
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten stands 30-meter tall towards the northeast of the Punakha dzong. The chorten has three...
Suspension Bridge
This bridge is one of the Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge with 180m long in length linking Punakha dzong...