Punakha Tour Information, Places to Visit in Punakha - Book budget trips with Dreamcaster Tours

It may not be known to all but Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan which lies in the intersection of the two main rivers, Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. Surrounded by hills all around, Punakha is a relatively warm place, with an average annual temperature touching 20 degrees Celsius. Located at an elevation of 1200 meters only, Punakha resembles the meadows of paradise; full of paddy fields that yields upto two rice crops in a year. There are several things for you to see as part of Punakha sightseeing.

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Places of interest around Punakha

Punakha Dzong

It is one of the oldest Dzongs created around the year 1637. It is not just an architectural symbol but also served as an administrative centre for the Bhutanese districts for centuries. It is also one of the most terrific places to see in Punakha. It is also one of Bhutan’s beautiful architectural magnificence with amazingly decorated rooms and prayer halls.

Chimi Lhakhang

This undulating beautiful Buddhist monastery was built during the 14th Century by the Drukpa king Ngawang Chogyal and is among the most beautiful places to see in Punakha. As legend has it, the Buddhist monk Drukpa Kunley defeated a demon here and trapped it inside a rock here. Do not be shocked to find phallus symbols strewn everywhere inside and on the walls of the temple.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

It is one of the ancient Buddhist Temple which was completed in 2004 and was with efforts from the Queen Mother. The sole purpose of this construction was to ward off the evil spirits and to promote peace and harmony in the world. It is a beautiful structure which makes it a popular sight that people crave to see. The temple complex also serves as fine example of the architectural traditions of the country. The temple can be reached after hiking through the paddies and then up a small hill laden with prayer wheels.

Ritsha

It is one of Bhutan’s ancient village and offbeat location just moments away from the ancient city of Punakha. It is also quite popular for its unique techniques towards growing rice and also for its beautiful architecture. During the harvest seasons around the monsoon, tours of the vineyard are popular here. The village also has a monastery that has attracted the attention of visitors with its magnificent architecture and centuries old religious traditions that continue even today.

Mo Chhu

The area along this river is scenic and the river Mo Chhu which also means, Mother in local language. The river passes into the valley and opens up wo a gorge which also creates is a popular place for thrill seekers to go kayaking or river rafting. However, around Punakha, the river makes for the best places to visit in Punakha, as it makes its way through the rice paddies and the golden domes of the Namgyal Chorten to the Pho Chhu right at the footsteps of the Punakha Dzong.