Destinations

Bhutan

Punakha

Punakha sits at a lower altitude than much of Bhutan, giving it a slighly warmer more tropical climate and a longer growing season. This has shaped the region into one of the country’s most important agricultural areas, where rice fields, vegetable farms and fruit orchards sit at the heart of local life. The verdant landscape takes on a noticeably greener character.

As the former seat of Bhutan’s government, Punakha retains deep symbolic and spiritual significance in Bhutan and we recommend including Punakha in nearly all of our itineraries as it's a beautiful region. The Punakha Dzong rises at the confluence of two rivers and continues to play an active role in national ceremonies and religious life. Beyond the dzong, villages are scattered across the valley floor, linked by footpaths and graceful suspension bridges. Here you'll also find a selection of beautiful boutique hotels and lodges, some of the best in Bhutan.

Punakha lends itself to slowing down and enjoying both Punakha Dzong and walks through the rural landscape. If time allows, we recommend at least two nights here.