Why Punakha?
Like most towns in Bhutan, Punakha sits at the bottom of a river valley – in this case at the confluence of the Pho Chhu River and the Mo Chhu River, which rises near the border with Tibet. It’s a beautiful setting for the Pungthang Dewachen Phodrang, or the Palace of Great Happiness. This palace houses a monastery, as well as the sacred relics of a Tibetan Buddhist Iama and a saint.
Inside the monastery you’ll find finely carved wooden balconies and columns, white-washed stupas and a chapel dedicated to the queen of snakes. There are a large number of important religious images on display and in the dzong’s archives – many of which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
Inside the monastery you’ll find finely carved wooden balconies and columns, white-washed stupas and a chapel dedicated to the queen of snakes. There are a large number of important religious images on display and in the dzong’s archives – many of which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
- Scenic valley setting.
- Colourful jacaranda trees.
- Picturesque river confluence.
- Great for hiking.
- Historic and culturally significant Palace of Great Happiness.
- Ideal for learning about Buddhism and local history.
Best Places to Stay in Punakha
Punakha River Lodge
Set in the forested hills of the Punakha Valley, the tastefully designed and intricate Punakha River Lodge is a haven of peace and tranquillity, perfect for those who relish the idea of a wellness retreat enveloped in a remarkably picturesque natural landscape. This is somewhere you can escape the everyday, fully relax and unwind. With intrepid activities in the forest available too, there’s plenty of room for your adventurous side if you want to indulge it.
Six Senses Punakha
Six Senses Punakha is just as luxurious as the group’s other lodges, but has an added, luxurious rural charm and a strong sense of place.
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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