Head to Dochula Pass early in the morning.We head down to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, about 2 1/2 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass. Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan. wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan.
Activities
Dochula Pass
At 3,100 metres, this beautiful pass located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu offers stunning 360-degree panoramas of the Himalayas mountain range. Here you will also see 108 chortens built by Her Majesty The Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. The pass is a popular spiritual destination for both locals and tourists.
Chimi Lhakhang
Also known as the Fertility Temple, this monastery is located in the beautiful village of Sopsokha. It stands on a small hill close to the village of Lobesa and was constructed in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpaheirarch. This monastery is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the 'Divine Madman', known for his risqué behavior. The footpath to Chimi Lhakhang meanders through beautiful terraces of paddy fields. The walk across the fields takes about 30 minutes. Many have been blessed with children after praying at the temple. Visiting Window 9:00 A.M to 12:00 NOON 2:00 P.M to 4:00 P.M
Punakha Dzong
Located strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Dzong was built in 1637 by the Great Unifer of Bhutan as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government in Bhutan was introduced in the 17th century. The first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned here in 1907. Damaged by four fires and an earthquake over the centuries, the Dzong was fully restored in recent years by the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It is now the winter home of Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan, along with a retinue of 1,000 monks. Marvel over intricate woodwork by the best craftsmen in Bhutan.
Visiting Window:
Summer Timing: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Winter Timing: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge
At 160 metres, this is known as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. From here, you will get spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.