Punakha, the former capital of the country, Bhutan is a quaint town in the heart of Punakha-Wangdue Valley. It is about 70 km away from Thimphu and if you're here only for a day, these are the three things you should do:
1. Visit one of the most beautiful Dzongs of Bhutan - Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong is often considered as the most beautiful Dzong in this happy country. It is also the most important Dzong in Bhutanese History. I was intrigued by the fact that this Dzong was built without the use of any nails, not even one. Also, most of the Bhutan's treasure are kept in this Dzong.
This Dzong is all the more special because the King of Bhutan his Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchunk and his beautiful wife, the Queen of Bhutan, Jetsun Pema got married here on October 13th, 2011.
2. Enjoy Rafting and Kayaking in Mo Chhu River
Starting from Gasa Dzongkhag district near Tibet and Bhutan border, the Mo Chhu River flows towards Punakha in the central region of Bhutan. It then joins the Pho Chhu from the Northeast of Bhutan.
The guides there told us that although there are two rivers named Pho Chhu (Male) and Mo Chhu (Female) in Punakha, the latter one is widely preferred by the first timers, kids and the elderly. This is because Mo Chhu river is considered to be calmer, gentle with few currents. Pho Chhu on the other hand, is considered voilent and only professional and experienced rafters are allowed.
3. Fall in Love with the Punakha Suspension Bridge
Amidst all the elegance of this little town, this place is also home to the marvelous Punakha suspension bridge. Punakha Dzong Suspension Bridge is also an important part of the architectural history of Bhutan. It is about 160 -180m long and perched high above the very swift river of Po Chhu. Punakha Bridge is less than a km away from Punakha Dzong, but it can easily be missed, as it’s not on the main road. This hanging bridge in Bhutan is draped with prayer flags all along and is a perfect spot for photography.
