Punakha

Punakha was Bhutan's capital until 1955 and is home to what many consider the country's most beautiful dzong — set at the confluence of two rivers, at a lower, warmer altitude than Paro or Thimphu.

• Punakha Dzong (Pungtang Dechen Photrang) — at the meeting of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
• Punakha Suspension Bridge — one of the longest in Bhutan, strung with prayer flags.
• Chimi Lhakhang — the "fertility temple," reached by a short walk through rice fields and villages.
• Terraced rice paddies along the valley floor.

Walk the suspension bridge, take the village walk to Chimi Lhakhang, and — seasonally — try white-water rafting on the Mo Chhu.

Punakha's lower altitude makes it noticeably milder than Thimphu or Paro, and a genuinely good winter destination when the higher valleys turn cold.

Reached from Thimphu via Dochula Pass, or directly from Paro on a longer transfer.

Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu — usually held in late winter or spring, re-enacting a 17th-century battle alongside the traditional masked dances.

Dochula Pass on the way from Thimphu, and Wangdue Phodrang just beyond Punakha.

The walk to Chimi Lhakhang crosses rice paddies and can be muddy after rain — comfortable, grippy footwear helps.

Is Punakha warmer than Thimphu? Yes — it sits at a significantly lower altitude and stays milder year-round.

Can I visit as a day trip from Thimphu? It's possible but rushed; an overnight stay lets you see the dzong, bridge and Chimi Lhakhang without racing the clock.