Punakha

After the visit to Lama Drukpa Kunley’s monastery, we continued our journey to Punakha; arriving the village at about 6:40pm.

Punakha is located on the north-eastern side of Thimphu and about 71km away. En route, we went over the Dochu La (Pass) at 3,088m. At the pass, one can see the 108 chortens with many prayer flags around.

From Punakha, we continued our journey to Paro. Paro, lying south west of Punakha, is the only city in Bhutan with an airport.

En route to Paro, we visited Punakha Dzong and stopped over at Wangdue Phodrang for a break and a walk around the village. Unfortunately it was drizzling and windy.

Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Man’s River) and the Mo Chhu (Woman’s River), was built in 1637.

One of the most picturesque fortresses dotting the landscape of Bhutan, Punakha Dzong once served as the seat of the government for many years when Punakha was the capital. Today, it serves as the winter residence of the national monastic body.

108 chortens at Dochu La (Pass)

Punakha Dzong – one of the most
picturesque fortresses of Bhutan


Shrouded in mist, the dzong appeared
to be even more mystical and mythical.

The dzong is 180m long, 72m wide,
housing some 600 monks.




Beautiful! Jacaranda trees are common in Bhutan

Wangdue Phodrang village (above and below)


Very misty day