Punakha Valley
Enveloped by vast expanses of verdant paddy fields and dense clusters of forested hills
Discover iconic Punakha
Beautiful Punakha has been inextricably linked with momentous occasions in Bhutanese history.
Two of Bhutan’s most prized rivers, the Pho and Mo Chu, also converge in the city where at their confluence stands the mighty Punakha Dzong. These rivers are also home to one of the last surviving populations of the critically endangered white-bellied herons. Further recognised as one of the warmest valleys in Bhutan, Punakha too offers explorers spectacular Himalaya views, exhilarating treks and serene temples.
The route from the capital city of Thimphu to Punakha is quite spectacular and takes travellers over the renowned Dochu La Pass, showcasing an array of interesting monuments as well as awe-inspiring views of the great Himalaya mountain range. Driving down from Dochu La towards Punakha, explorers can also discover the Royal Botanical Park, where an excellent collection of Himalaya plants and good birding sites can be found.
Why we love it
Active adventures
Travellers can enjoy myriad excursions; trekking across the mighty Himalaya, gentle strolls through bustling villages, glorious mountain bike trails, whitewater river rafting down the Pho and Mo Chu Rivers, seasonal paddy ploughing and planting, traditional bow and arrow archery.
Cultural wonder
Amongst many others, Punakha is home to the Punakha Dzong; one of Bhutan’s oldest and most spectacular Dzongs, the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten; the sacred Buddhist temple, and the Punakha Tshechu; one of the country’s most popular festivals.
Natural beauty
Recognised as one of the world’s only carbon-negative countries, with more than 75% of Bhutan covered in dense forest, it comes as no surprise Punakha is too highly-acclaimed for its varied biodiversity and wildly-protected flora and fauna.
Spiritual affair
Spread merit by hoisting colourful prayer flags, rejuvenate your mind and spirit by practicing yoga amidst serene Himalaya views, chant sacred prayers with Bhutanese monks, and take lessons on Buddhism from a Buddhist master.
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge is officially open
Explore our brand-new, all-inclusive, first-ever owned lodge in Asia
Tailormade travel in Punakha
We tailor itineraries around your specific interests and expectations.
Our expert travel specialists are able to personalise a range of experiences for individual travellers, groups, incentives, families, and special interest groups. Our team is committed to thrilling you and will create and recreate itineraries until they find your perfect Asian experience.
READY TO START PLANNING?
Begin your Bhutanese adventure and talk to one of our travel specialists
Experience Punakha
Browse a few of our favourite things to do in Punakha.
We take you off the beaten tourist track and introduce you to Bhutan’s hidden gems, provide unrivalled cultural interactions and special access to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Places to stay
Carefully selected accommodation just for you.
In addition to our own lodge in Punakha, preferred partners are carefully selected suppliers who are rigorously scored, and continuously evaluated, to ensure that you visit only the highest quality properties, with the very best services.
Stories to inspire your next Bhutan journey
When should I visit Bhutan?
A guide to the four distinct seasons that make Bhutan a year-round destination.
The land-locked Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan offers explorers something special every season.
Bringing Asia home
We’ve got fragrant recipes, a hip-swaying playlist, a mountain-full of books and blogs, and endless hours of video entertainment for you to enjoy.
Frequently asked questions
Explore Bhutan with us
From exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore Bhutan
Explore more
Become immersed in some of the country's most revered valleys
Why travel with &Beyond?
Responsible Travel
We have been making a difference for 30 years; and it’s only because of you, our guests. Just by choosing to travel with us, you are directly contributing to the preservation of the land, wildlife and people in the areas we operate.
Flexible Travel
We are monitoring and amending our approach to travel during these uncertain times, and provide both flexibility and security of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, with our COVID-19 Terms & Conditions.
In our hands
24/7, 5 day a week, you have access to our unique Global Concierge service, which will assist you throughout your journey, as well as give-up-to-date information on travel regulations and Covid requirements in each of our destinations.
Travel Experts
Our Travel Specialists never send a guest anywhere they haven’t been themselves. They come with a wealth of planning expertise and know the latest government regulations, border requirements and logistic possibilities.
Finest Guides
Expect the finest interpretive experience from our expert private and specialist guides. Our city and adventure guides are hand-picked for their expertise and ability to personalise your journey.
I dream of travel that leaves our world a better place
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