Things to Do in Punakha

Punakha sits at the confluence of two rivers in western Bhutan, where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu merge into the Punatsangchhu. The town served as Bhutan's capital until 1955 and still holds deep significance as the winter seat of the central monastic body. You'll find yourself in a valley that feels almost subtropical compared to Thimphu, with banana trees and orange groves dotting the landscape. The famous Punakha Dzong dominates the valley floor - a fortress-monastery that's genuinely one of the most photogenic buildings in the Himalayas. Beyond the dzong, Punakha offers excellent hiking, river rafting, and some of the most accessible glimpses into traditional Bhutanese village life you'll find anywhere in the country.

Punakha's dining scene is fairly simple but satisfying, centered around traditional Bhutanese cuisine and basic international options. You'll find several local restaurants serving ema datshi (chilies with cheese), red rice, and yak meat dishes. The guesthouses and hotels typically offer the most reliable food, often featuring organic vegetables from local farms. Street food is limited, but you might find vendors selling momos (dumplings) near the weekend market. For what it's worth, the local red rice grown in Punakha valley is considered some of Bhutan's best, and you'll taste the difference in the nutty, aromatic grains served with most meals.

October through December offers the most reliable weather with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks. Spring months from March to May are also lovely, with blooming rhododendrons and moderate temperatures, though afternoon clouds can obscure mountain views. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that can make hiking treacherous and obscure views, though the valley turns incredibly lush and green. Winter months can be quite pleasant in the valley itself due to the lower elevation, though the Dochula Pass route might face occasional snow delays.