After breakfast at your hotel in Thimphu, drive to Punakha (4,298 ft.) / Wangdue Phodrang. En route, stop at Dochu-La Pass (3,150 m) to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the higher Himalayas, often adorned with prayer flags and 108 memorial chortens, providing a spiritual and scenic experience. Upon arrival in Punakha, check in at your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, visit the Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Known as Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness), it served as the seat of government until the reign of the second king. The dzong also functions as the winter residence of the Je-Khenpo and holds historic significance as the venue where King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly in 1952. Later, take a short and easy hike to Chhimi Lhakhang, also called the Temple of Fertility, built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, famously known as “The Divine Madman.” Spend the evening at leisure to enjoy the serene surroundings. Overnight stay at hotel in Punakha / Wangdue.
- Dochu-La Pass
- Panoramic Himalayan views
- Punakha Dzong
- Chhimi Lhakhang
- Bhutanese culture and heritage.