The Majestic Punakha Dzong: A Testament to Bhutanese Heritage
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress and monastery in the heart of Bhutan.
Punakha Dzong is a stunning architectural marvel nestled at the confluence of two rivers in Bhutan. This historical fortress is renowned for its intricate woodwork, vibrant murals, and serene gardens, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Bhutanese culture and history. As the former capital of Bhutan, this dzong offers visitors a glimpse into the country's spiritual and political past, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
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 early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and capture beautiful photographs.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect the sacred nature of the site.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the dzong.
- Don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding gardens which are perfect for relaxation and reflection.
- Check for any local festivals during your visit, as they provide a unique glimpse into Bhutanese culture.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the main town area of Punakha, head east towards the Punakha Suspension Bridge. Follow the main road until you reach the bridge. Cross the bridge, enjoying the beautiful views of the river below. Once across, continue along the path that leads to Punakha Dzong, which is situated on the opposite bank of the river. You will see the Dzong’s impressive structure in the distance. Follow the signs that guide you to the entrance of the Dzong. The walk from the bridge should take about 15-20 minutes.
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Walking
If you are near the Punakha Drubchen area, make your way towards the main road that leads to Punakha Dzong. Head north along the road until you reach a fork. Take the left path that leads you directly towards the Dzong. There will be signposts directing you. Keep walking straight for about 10-15 minutes, and you will arrive at the main entrance of Punakha Dzong.
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Local Guides
Consider hiring a local guide who can take you to Punakha Dzong. Many guides are available in the town, and they can provide valuable insights as you walk to the Dzong. Ask around in the town center or at your accommodation for recommendations. This option is particularly helpful if you want to learn more about the history and significance of the Dzong during your visit.
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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Dhumra Farm Resort
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Pho chhu
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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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Talo Goenpa
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Wolakha Nunnery
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Chimi Lhakhang Village Homestay
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Mochu Rafting Point
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Unmissable attractions to see
Punakha Dzong View Point
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Changyul Galem House
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Suspension Bridge, Punakha
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Punakha Suspension Bridge
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Druk Rafting Service
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Zomlingthang camping
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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
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Kuenga Hot Stone Bath
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Mendrelgang zimchung
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Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten
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Omley Tshozhaw
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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
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Momo Hut
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Mochuphakha Restaurant
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Changyul BridgeSide Restaurant
1.0 km
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Tea and coffee shop
1.0 km
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Bridge view resturant
1.0 km
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Babee Restaurent
2.0 km
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CREATIVE RESTAURANT AND BAR
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Beda pizza
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Digital by st
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MERENGMA' Bistro
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MERENGMA' Bistro & Bar
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Hotel Chicken Dinner
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Kuenga Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
YiGa Chocolate Punakha 01
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Two Brothers Cafe
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Dorji Grocery and Bar
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Lekithang, Punakha District Administration Store
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Kinley Dorji
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Woolen, silk and buray cloths
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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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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
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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
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Himalayan Bar
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ACHO DAKA
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Pemaling Restaurant and Bar (SOM)
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Kaka General Shop & Bar
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Phendey Restaurant & Bar
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Punatshangchhu cottages
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Bangchung Restaurant, Bajo Town
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