CULTURAL TOUR TO PUNAKHA
Punakha (Dzongkha: སྤུ་ན་ཁ་) is the administrative centre of Punakha dzongkhag, one of the 20 districts of Bhutan. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu. It is about 72 km away from Thimphu, and it takes about 3 hours by car from the capital, Thimphu. Unlike Thimphu, it is quite warm in winter and hot in summer. It is located at an elevation of 1,200 metres above sea level, and rice is grown as the main crop along the river valleys of two main rivers of Bhutan, the Pho Chu and Mo Chu. Dzongkha is widely spoken in this district.
Punakha—the valley so blessed—was once the capital of Bhutan. The landscape is breathtaking and the valley sits on an unusually quiet at the confluence of two rivers. The visit to this valley will come with three-fold benefits, and those are; first, you will get to visit the valley that looks no less beautiful than Paro valley. Second, you will get to see the some of the rare birds like white-belled herion which are as rare of blue diamond in the world. And third, that the valley is so sacred. The majestic dzong was built by Zhabdrung Rinpoche in 17th century and remain as his main seat till his death.
Duration
6 Days
Group Size
2 & above
Tour grade
Easy/Moderate
Accommodation
Hotels
Avg. Walking Dist.
3-5 Km
Best season
Mar-Jun
Sep-Nov
Avg. Walking Time
3-4 Hours
Max. Elevation
3600m
5Nights/6Days
From US $1410/person
Arrive Paro International Airport (2200 meters above sea level) at any time and transfer to Thimphu.
In Thimphu (2300m), if time permits, take an orientation walk in town, do shopping and get settled in.
Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel
After breakfast drive to Punakha district, our ancient capital city before Thimphu and stop at one of the most beautiful pass in the country called Dochula Pass(3100m) adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel chortens and colourful prayer flags surrounded by spectacular views of Himalayan ranges on clear weather. Continue driving to Punakha valley and on the way you can stop at Lobesa to hike up to Chimi Lhakhang through rice paddy fields and through metsina village with colourful painted Phallus on the walls to bless the household with fertility and to ward off evil spirits. The temple is dedicated to the accomplished master in the 15th century known as Drukpa Kuenley or the “Divine Madman,” who is believed to bless women who seek fertility. After this visit Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzong in the country with intricate metal and wood carvings situated between male and female rivers like an anchored ship built in 1637 by Zhabdrung and then visit one of the longest suspension bridge.
Hike through rice terraces and forests to Khamsum Yueley Chorten.
Ramble through the suspension bridge.
In the afternoon, go for river rafting.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
In the morning drive to Paro which takes about 3 hours. After reaching there,
Visit Paro Dzong, National Museum and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples built in 7th century.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel
Hike to tiger nest famously known as Taktsang Monastery (3050M). It will take about 3 hours to reach the monastery.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel
Depart from Paro International Airport
Payment Conditions
Cost Includes
- Sustainable development fee(SDF)
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Transport
- All internal taxes & charges
- Licensed Bhutanese tour guide
- Equipment & haulage for trekking tours
Cost Excludes
- Flight tickets
- Insurance
- Drinks & beverages
- Tips
- Internet & phone bills
- Other bills of personal nature
Insurance
Package does not include insurance of any kinds and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.