Punakha

Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan until 1955, is situated at a moderate elevation of about 1,200 meters in the central-western part of the country. The city is world-famous for Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress built in 1637, strategically placed at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Due to its lower altitude compared to Thimphu, Punakha enjoys a subtropical climate, which is why it remains the winter residence of Bhutan's central monastic body to this day. The fertile valley allows for intensive rice cultivation, particularly the famous Bhutanese red rice, as well as various fruits. Historically, Punakha was the setting for many significant events, including the coronation of the first King of Bhutan in 1907. The architectural splendor of the dzong, with its intricate woodwork and paintings, reflects the depth of Bhutanese culture and Tibetan Buddhism. Today, the city remains a spiritual center and a vital location for national celebrations like the Punakha Tshechu.

Nearby cities

Khuruthang

Khuruthang is a planned new town serving as the commercial hub for the Punakha district, just south of the historic dzong.

Daga

Daga, also known as Dagana, is a historic fortress town founded in the 17th century to defend against hostile forces.

Faridpur

A district in central Bangladesh, historically significant and known for its jute production and river trade.

Lhamoizingkha

Lhamoizingkha is a subtropical border town in Bhutan, situated on the banks of the Sunkosh River in an area with lush vegetation.

Jamalpur

A northern city known for its nakshi kantha (embroidered quilt) handicrafts and agricultural production.

Sirajganj

A major river port and transportation hub on the Jamuna River, connecting northern Bangladesh with the rest of the country.

Laya

An isolated high-altitude village at 3800 meters, home to the semi-nomadic Layap people known for their unique conical bamboo hats.

History & landmarks

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery

An impressive temple and nunnery complex situated on a ridge.

Talo Dzong

The Talo Monastery is located high up in the hills of Punakha.

Bagerhat

Bagerhat is a historic town in southwestern Bangladesh, home to a UNESCO-listed 15th-century mosque city built by Khan Jahan Ali.

Bangabandhu Bridge

One of the longest bridges in South Asia, crossing the Jamuna River to connect eastern and western Bangladesh.

Gasa Dzong

A historic mountain fortress built in the 17th century to protect against attacks from the north.

Buddha Dordenma

A gigantic Buddha statue towering over Thimphu.

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Phajoding Monastery

A massive monastery complex high above Thimphu, reached by a steep hike.

Gangtey

A historic village at 3000 meters altitude, recognized for the majestic 17th-century Gangtey Goemba monastery.

Nature

Padma River

The main distributary of the Ganges in Bangladesh, known for its shifting banks.

Jamuna River

The lower course of the Brahmaputra in Bangladesh, characterized by many sandbars.

Wang Chhu

The main river of the Thimphu Valley runs through Bhutan's capital and forms a picturesque gorge in the west of the country.

More places

Punakha Dzong

The second oldest and second largest fortress in Bhutan, built in 1637.

Punakha Valley

A lower and warmer valley where rice and fruits thrive excellently due to the mild climate.

Chimi Lhakhang

A Buddhist monastery in the Punakha District, built in 1499.

Punakha Mustard Fields

In spring, blooming mustard fields transform the landscape of Punakha into a vibrant yellow sea of colors.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

This impressive temple was completed in 2004 to promote peace and stability in Bhutan.

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Punatsangchhu Project

Two massive hydroelectric megaprojects under construction on the Punatsangchhu river.

Masang Kang

A prominent, snow-capped mountain in Jigme Dorji National Park, revered as a protector from the local valleys.

Tongshanjiabu

A massive border peak between Bhutan and China, whose slopes are characterized by dangerous crevasses and ice fields.