Punakha Dzong: A Majestic Fortress of Serenity
Explore the breathtaking Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress blending history and spirituality amid Bhutan's picturesque landscapes.
Nestled at the confluence of two rivers, Punakha Dzong stands as a remarkable symbol of Bhutanese architecture and spirituality. This historical fortress, known as the 'Palace of Great Happiness,' offers visitors a glimpse into Bhutan's rich cultural heritage amidst stunning natural landscapes.
A brief summary to Punakha Dzong སྤུ་ན་ཁ་རྫོང་།
- HVJ7+V6Q, BT
- +97517920545
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Dress modestly to respect the spiritual significance of the site.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the dzong.
- Check the local festival calendar to experience vibrant cultural events.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from any location in Dagana District, first ensure you have a map or GPS that can guide you to Punakha. Begin your journey by heading north on the main road. Depending on your starting point, you may need to navigate through local roads to connect to the highway towards Punakha. It is approximately a 2-3 hour drive. As you approach Punakha, look for signs directing you to Punakha Dzong, which is located at HVJ7+V6Q. Parking is available nearby.
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Public Transportation
For those opting for public transportation, you can catch a bus from Dagana to Punakha. Buses operate regularly, but it's advisable to check the local schedule for timings. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. Once you arrive in Punakha, you can take a taxi or a local transport service to reach Punakha Dzong at HVJ7+V6Q. Make sure to have some local currency handy for the bus fare and taxi ride.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route or are traveling in a group, consider hiring a taxi from any point in Dagana District. You can negotiate a fare with the driver before starting your journey. The cost will vary based on your starting point, but expect to pay around 200-500 Nu for the trip to Punakha Dzong. The journey will take approximately 2-3 hours, and the driver will drop you off directly at the entrance of the Dzong.
Discover more about Punakha Dzong སྤུ་ན་ཁ་རྫོང་།
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mo Chhu
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Zhingkham Resort ཞིང་ཁམས་སྐྱིད་གནས།
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Discover tranquility and cultural richness at Zhingkham Resort, a serene getaway in Bhutan's breathtaking Punakha Valley.
Dhumra Farm Resort
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Pho chhu
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Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, an iconic river port in Punakha, Bhutan, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Damchen Resort
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Khuru Resort
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Thuji Homestay
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Kunzang Zhing Resort
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Seo Drangsa, Laptsakha
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Dhensa Boutique Resort
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Experience the serene luxury of Dhensa Boutique Resort, where traditional Bhutanese hospitality meets stunning natural beauty.
Talo Goenpa
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Discover the tranquility of Talo Goenpa, a breathtaking monastery in Punakha, Bhutan, showcasing rich culture and stunning natural landscapes.
Wolakha Nunnery
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Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery
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Chimi Lhakhang Village Homestay
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Mochu Rafting Point
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Experience the thrill of white-water rafting at Mochu Rafting Point, where adventure meets the breathtaking beauty of Bhutan's landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Punakha Dzong View Point
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Punakha Dzong View Point, a serene escape in Bhutan's stunning landscape.
Changyul Galem House
0.9 km
Explore the historical and cultural essence of Bhutan at Changyul Galem House, a serene site in Punakha that showcases traditional architecture and local heritage.
Suspension Bridge, Punakha
1.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and cultural significance at the Suspension Bridge in Punakha, one of Bhutan's longest and most iconic landmarks.
Punakha Suspension Bridge
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Explore the breathtaking Punakha Suspension Bridge, Bhutan’s architectural gem offering stunning views and a glimpse into local culture.
Druk Rafting Service
1.2 km
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Zomlingthang camping
2.3 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Zomlingthang Camping in Punakha, Bhutan - a perfect blend of adventure and serenity amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Riverfront Punakha
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Khuruthang
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Lingmukha
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Chimi Lhakhang
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Lotus Adventures - Rafting
6.8 km
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Kuenga Hot Stone Bath
6.9 km
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Mendrelgang zimchung
7.2 km
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Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten
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Omley Tshozhaw
8.1 km
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Essential places to dine
YEZOR RESTAURANT
0.3 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese cuisine at Yezor Restaurant in Punakha Old Town - where every meal is a journey into local flavors.
MAGIC OVEN RESTAURANT
0.3 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Magic Oven Restaurant along the breathtaking Punakha-Thimphu Highway.
Momo Hut
0.3 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Momo Hut in Punakha, where every bite tells a story.
Mochuphakha Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover authentic Bhutanese cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Mochuphakha Restaurant on Punakha-Thimphu Highway.
Changyul BridgeSide Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Changyul BridgeSide Restaurant, set against breathtaking views in Punakha.
Tea and coffee shop
1.0 km
Discover a cozy tea and coffee haven in Punakha offering local brews amid stunning Himalayan scenery.
Bridge view resturant
1.0 km
Discover authentic Bhutanese cuisine with breathtaking views at Bridge View Restaurant in Punakha, near one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges.
Babee Restaurent
2.0 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Babee Restaurant in Punakha – where every dish tells a story.
CREATIVE RESTAURANT AND BAR
2.0 km
Experience delightful family dining at Creative Restaurant and Bar in Punakha—where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Beda pizza
2.0 km
Discover Beda Pizza in Punakha: A culinary delight blending local flavors with traditional pizza artistry amidst stunning landscapes.
Digital by st
2.0 km
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MERENGMA' Bistro
2.1 km
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MERENGMA' Bistro & Bar
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Hotel Chicken Dinner
2.4 km
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Kuenga Restaurant
3.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
YiGa Chocolate Punakha 01
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Two Brothers Cafe
1.1 km
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Dorji Grocery and Bar
2.0 km
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Lekithang, Punakha District Administration Store
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Kinley Dorji
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Experience exceptional eye care at Kinley Dorji, the leading optician in Punakha, enhancing your vision as you explore Bhutan's natural beauty.
Woolen, silk and buray cloths
2.0 km
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Pema General Shop
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Organic Flour and Oil
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Khuruthang, Punakha
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Euthra General Shop
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S to S General Shop
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NAMGAY ZAM MINI MART
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Sonam Lhatu Grocery Shop
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Punakha Sales
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Eksa Electronics
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ugyen bar
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Khuruthag
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Leki restaurant, khuruthang
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Vintage Cafe
6.7 km
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Chimi Lhakhang Organic Cafe
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Ku-Kham House
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ST Restaurant
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DAZA Restaurant & BAR
8.4 km
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Himalayan Bar
8.6 km
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ACHO DAKA
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Pemaling Restaurant and Bar (SOM)
9.2 km
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Kaka General Shop & Bar
9.6 km
Discover the rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Punakha at Kaka General Shop & Bar, a local favorite for drinks and cultural immersion.
Phendey Restaurant & Bar
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Experience authentic Bhutanese cuisine and warm hospitality at Phendey Restaurant & Bar, a culinary jewel in Bhutan's vibrant landscape.
Punatshangchhu cottages
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Bangchung Restaurant, Bajo Town
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