Tour
Overview
Punakha was Bhutan's capital for over 300 years and remains the winter residence of the Je Khenpo — Bhutan's chief abbot. The centrepiece of the valley is Punakha Dzong, widely regarded as the most beautiful dzong in the country. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River), it has survived earthquakes, floods, and fires to remain one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture anywhere in the kingdom. In spring, the jacaranda trees along its approach burst into violet bloom — a sight that has made Punakha one of the most photographed dzongs in Asia.
This full-day tour combines the dzong with Punakha's other essential sites: the crossing of Bhutan's longest suspension bridge over the Pho Chhu river, a visit to Chimi Lhakhang (the Fertility Temple, a short walk across the paddy fields), and a stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m) on the way — where 108 memorial chortens stand against the Himalayan chain on clear days. The Punakha Valley is approximately 2–3 hours from Thimphu and Paro, making it a natural full-day excursion from either base.
February and March are particularly special in Punakha — the Punakha Drubchen and Tshechu festivals take place at the dzong, the jacaranda trees are in early bloom, and the river levels are low enough for excellent views. Autumn (September–November) offers clear skies and the best mountain visibility from Dochula Pass.
Tour Highlights
& Key Facts
Punakha Dzong
Built in 1637 at the confluence of two sacred rivers, Punakha Dzong is widely considered the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan. The vast courtyard, gilded temples, and jacaranda-lined approach make it one of the most photographed buildings in the Himalayas.
Bhutan's Longest Suspension Bridge
A 160–180m suspension bridge draped in prayer flags spans the Pho Chhu river north of Punakha Dzong. The bridge sways underfoot and offers spectacular views of the river and the dzong's rear facade — a memorable crossing for visitors of all ages.
Chimi Lhakhang — the Fertility Temple
A 15-minute walk across the rice paddies leads to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman — Drukpa Kunley — whose unconventional teaching style and phallic symbolism have made this one of Bhutan's most visited and most distinctive shrines.
Dochula Pass (3,100m)
On the drive between Thimphu and Punakha, Dochula Pass offers 108 Druk Wangyel memorial chortens and — on clear days — a sweeping panorama of the eastern Himalayan chain including peaks over 7,000m. A natural stop for photography and a short walk.
Punakha Valley Scenery
One of Bhutan's warmest and most fertile valleys — rice paddies, banana trees, and farmhouses along the Mo Chhu river. In February, mustard flowers fill the fields. In October, the rice harvest creates a golden landscape unlike anything else in the country.
Expert Private Guide
Your licensed Found Bhutan guide brings 300 years of Punakha's history to life — from the dzong's role as the site of the Royal Wedding and the signing of the constitution to the living monastic traditions still practised here today.
Tentative
Itinerary
Morning — Dochula Pass & Descent to Punakha: Depart from your Thimphu or Paro hotel after breakfast. Drive to Dochula Pass (3,100m) — approximately 1 hour from Thimphu — for the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens and Himalayan views. On clear days (most likely in autumn) the panorama extends across the entire eastern range. Continue the descent into the warm Punakha Valley.
Midday — Punakha Dzong & Suspension Bridge: Arrive at Punakha Dzong and spend time exploring the courtyard, the assembly hall, and the dzong's remarkable position at the river confluence. Your guide covers the dzong's history — including the 1637 founding, the 1897 earthquake, the 2011 Royal Wedding, and the constitution-signing ceremony of 2008. After the dzong, walk to Bhutan's longest suspension bridge over the Pho Chhu river. Lunch at a local restaurant in Punakha.
Afternoon — Chimi Lhakhang: A short drive to Sopsokha village followed by a 15-minute walk across the paddy fields to Chimi Lhakhang. Your guide explains the story of Drukpa Kunley — the 15th-century Buddhist master whose approach to teaching through provocation and humour created one of Bhutan's most distinctive sacred traditions. Return to your hotel in Thimphu or Paro by evening.
Meals: Lunch included · Transport: Private vehicle throughout
Our itineraries are always customisable. Add the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten hike, the Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, or the Punakha hot stone bath. Speak with your Found Bhutan tour specialist to tailor the day.
Inclusions &
Exclusions
Tour Package Inclusions
- Bhutan SDF
- Bhutan VISA Fee
- Luxury (SUV) Vehicle for 1-2 Pax
- Hi-Roof for 3-7 Pax
- Coaster Bus for more than 7 Pax
- Professional & Experienced Driver
- All transportation within Bhutan
- English-speaking expert local Tour Guide
- All three Meals
- Packed Lunches
- Bottled Mineral Water throughout the tour
- Seasonal Fruits
- Accommodation in 3-stars and above Hotels
- Local SIM Card
Tour Package Exclusions
- International Air fare
- Single room supplement charges
- Entrance fees for Museums and Monuments
- Any Personal Expenses
- Tips/gratuities
- Cost arising out of events beyond our control
- Cost for any services not mentioned in the "TOUR PACKAGE INCLUSION"
Tour
Cost
The total cost of the tour will vary based on the number of days, PAX, types of activities, accommodation & fooding, and the places you intend to visit. Our final rates will be shared based on your itinerary requirements.
Payment &
Cancellation Policy
We believe in transparent, fair terms. Please review our complete Payment Terms and Tour Cancellation Policy before confirming your booking.
Read Full PolicyReal Photos from
Our Guests
These are real, unedited moments captured by travellers who explored Bhutan with Found Bhutan. Every photo tells a story — and your story is next.
Explore the full collection of guest photos from across Bhutan.
View All Guest Photos
