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Punatsangchhu Project
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The Punatsangchhu Hydropower Project is a large infrastructure endeavor in Bhutan, located on the Punatsangchhu River in Wangdue Phodrang District. It comprises two dams, Punatsangchhu I and II, with a combined planned capacity of 2,400 megawatts. The project is a joint venture between Bhutan and India to generate clean energy and foster economic growth. Construction began in 2008 but has faced delays due to geological instability. Punatsangchhu I will have an installed capacity of 1,200 MW, while Punatsangchhu II will add another 1,000 MW. The plant is expected to produce over 6,000 GWh annually, with most electricity exported to India. The project creates jobs and improves infrastructure, though environmental concerns and community resettlement remain challenges.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: Chodenthangkha · Gyikha Lhakhang · Bjana Goenpa
- Nearby: Lhamoizingkha (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 | 9 | 5 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 12 | 32 | 74 | 119 | 164 | 254 | 202 | 130 | 55 | 4 | 2 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Punatsangchhu Project represents a transformative hydroelectric megaproject in Bhutan, designed to boost the nation's capacity to harness river energy for crucial power exports to neighbouring India and domestic growth.
Visiting
While the active construction zones and inner workings of the dams are restricted for safety reasons, the immense scale of the ongoing engineering marvels can typically be observed from the surrounding public highways.
Where to view it
Travellers driving along the main road connecting Wangdue Phodrang and Tsirang will find numerous impressive vantage points looking down into the deep river gorge to witness the sprawling dam construction sites below.
Local products
While travelling through the Wangdue Phodrang district near the project, visitors can explore roadside stalls offering local Bhutanese red rice, fresh mountain vegetables, and beautiful traditional bamboo crafts.
Active season
The valley is highly active during the dry season, as clear weather facilitates uninterrupted construction work, whereas the dramatic monsoon months beautifully highlight the raw, immense power of the swelling river itself.
Nearby
Integrating a stop to view this modern industrial feat aligns perfectly with a broader itinerary visiting the historic Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and experiencing the impressive natural landscapes of the beautiful Punakha valley.
Geography
Facts
- Consists of two separate projects (Puna-I, Puna-II)
- Puna-I was significantly delayed by a massive landslide at the dam site
- Puna-II faced issues with geological conditions in the underground powerhouse
- Expected to more than double Bhutan's energy exports upon completion
- A joint venture between Bhutan's Druk Green Power Corporation and the Indian government
- The projects utilize the water of the Puna Tsang Chhu river
- The combined cost is estimated to be several billion US dollars
- Will create thousands of jobs during construction and operation
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Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Punatsangchhu Project (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Punatsangchhu project?
A massive hydropower project consisting of two phases (I and II).
Where is it being built?
On the Punatsangchhu river in Wangdue Phodrang district.
What are the goals of the project?
Massive increase in energy exports and promotion of economic independence.
Are there construction challenges?
Yes, geological issues led to delays in dam construction.
Is the project open to visitors?
The construction sites are closed, but the scale is visible from the road.
Punatsangchhu Project: where is it located?
Punatsangchhu Project is located in Bhutan.
Punatsangchhu Project: what is there to see?
Highlights include Chodenthangkha, Gyikha Lhakhang, Bjana Goenpa.
Punatsangchhu Project: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Punatsangchhu Project: why is it worth visiting?
The Punatsangchhu Hydropower Project is a large infrastructure endeavor in Bhutan, located on the Punatsangchhu River in Wangdue Phodrang District.
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