Pilgrimage Tours
A Vibedu venture
Bhutan's warm former capital where two rivers meet
Punakha was Bhutan's capital until the mid-20th century, and its crown jewel remains the sublime Punakha Dzong, set where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers merge. At a gentle 1,200m, the valley is warmer and greener than the highlands, ideal in the cooler months. Add one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges and the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang and you have a rich, relaxed day out. We arrange the Entry Permit and guide you on the Sustainable Development Fee.
Land at Paro where we complete your entry permit, then drive to Thimphu for the night with a stop at the Memorial Chorten.
Cross the scenic Dochula Pass with its 108 chortens en route to Punakha. Visit Chimi Lhakhang on arrival.
Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong and walk across the long suspension bridge. Optional hike to the Khamsum Yulley chorten.
Drive back towards Paro, pausing for photographs at Dochula, then connect with your onward flight.
Indicative Bhutan package prices (per person on twin-sharing; land package):
| Trip Duration | Indicative Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| 4 Nights / 5 Days | from ₹34,999 |
| 5 Nights / 6 Days | from ₹39,999 |
| 6 Nights / 7 Days | from ₹44,999 |
| 7 Nights / 8 Days | from ₹49,999 |
Indicative land-package prices (per person twin-sharing) — the Sustainable Development Fee (currently ~₹1,200 per person per night) and flights to Paro are additional. We arrange your entry permit. Share your dates for an itemised quote.
Punakha rewards you with Bhutan's most beautiful dzong and a warmer, greener setting than the mountain towns. The riverside location, blossoming jacaranda and gentle walks make it a highlight of any itinerary. It pairs naturally with the Dochula Pass crossing.
The valley suits an easy, scenic day:
Punakha is around three hours' drive from Thimphu over the Dochula Pass. There is no airport nearby, so travellers fly into Paro International Airport and continue by road. The drive itself is a scenic highlight of the trip.
Indian citizens do not need a traditional visa for Bhutan. You need an Entry Permit — which we arrange — and travel on a passport or Voter ID. The Sustainable Development Fee is currently ₹1,200 per person per night for Indian nationals, with children discounted and under-6s exempt (subject to change). A separate route permit is needed beyond Thimphu, which our team handles.
Punakha is delightful from October to March thanks to its lower, warmer altitude, and spectacular in spring when jacaranda bloom around the dzong. Summer can be humid and the rivers run high with glacial melt.
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