Punakha Trips & Tours

Remember when we mentioned those trembling mountain passes that your nerves won’t thank us for? We were referring to the Punakha Valley. A mere 50 miles from Thimphu, the journey takes a twisting, turning three hours across glacial valleys and patchwork rice paddies. The highlight is the Dochula Pass, bedecked in fluttering prayer flags and worth stopping at for the staggering vistas and shaggy yaks. Once recovered from the journey, it’s time to gawp at Punakha Dzong which, with its golden domes and multiple storeys, is considered one of Bhutan’s most beautiful. A day trek to Khamsum Chorten will give you the best views, but the valley is even more spectacular up close. Mountain biking and river rafting will appeal to thrill-seekers or, if something more laidback is on the cards, how about a visit to a fertility temple or session with an incense-maker for a fragrant aromatherapy lesson?