Punakha

Punakha is located between Thimphu and Gangtey in Bhutan and is located at a lower altitude of 1,250m on the intersection of the Mo Chhu River (meaning Female) and Po Chhu (meaning Male). The proximity to the river and low altitude has made the valley exceptionally fertile, with sweeping paddy fields rising up from the river, terraced into the side of the valley. Punakha has one of Bhutan’s best Dzongs (fortified monasteries) and was the location for the marriage of the present King and Queen. Punakha is an adventure playground and you can spend two or more nights here easily on a tour of Bhutan. There are numerous day treks to head off on, the option to raft both rivers and a number of cycling routes. In terms of the sights to see, Chimi Lhakhang is the Temple of Fertility and is usually seen on the way from or to Thimphu. The walk to the Khamsum Chorten provides the best views of the valley. Other longer treks include the Giligang Trek and Nobugang Trek. There is a range of hotels to stay in on a tour that includes Punakha. On the luxury end, you have the Amankora and Uma Punakha, but there are a number of more simple Bhutanese boutique hotels. The Punakha takes place in February with a festival in October in nearby Wangdue.