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How To Reach Punakha

Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, is known for its stunning monasteries and picturesque landscapes. Since Punakha does not have an airport, travelers must first reach Paro or Thimphu before continuing their journey to Punakha.

1. By Air (Fastest Route)

  1. Nearest Airport: Paro International Airport (PBH)
  2. Flights Available From:
    1. India: Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra
    2. Nepal: Kathmandu
    3. Thailand: Bangkok
    4. Bangladesh: Dhaka
    5. Singapore (Limited flights)
  3. Airlines: Druk Air & Bhutan Airlines

Paro to Punakha Travel Options:

  1. Taxi: Takes ~4.5-5 hours, costs ~INR 4,000-5,000
  2. Bus: Limited buses available from Paro to Punakha via Thimphu

2. By Road (From Thimphu)

Since most travelers first arrive in Thimphu, here’s how to reach Punakha from there:

  1. Distance: ~85 km
  2. Travel Time: ~3 hours by road
  3. Transport Options:
    1. Taxi: Costs ~INR 2,500-3,000
    2. Bus: Regular local buses available (cheaper but slower)

3. By Land (From India)

If entering Bhutan by land, you must first reach Phuentsholing, the border town, and then proceed to Thimphu before heading to Punakha.

Popular Routes:

  1. Bagdogra (IXB) to Phuentsholing: ~4-hour drive
  2. Hasimara (HSA) to Phuentsholing: ~30-minute drive
  3. Phuentsholing to Thimphu: ~5-6 hour drive
  4. Thimphu to Punakha: ~3-hour drive
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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Spring (March-May): Best for Punakha Dzong’s blooming jacaranda flowers
  2. Autumn (Sept-Nov): Ideal for clear weather and festivals
  3. Winter (Dec-Feb): Pleasant with fewer tourists
  4. Monsoon (June-Aug): Rainy but lush green landscapes

  1. Punakha Dzong: Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress
  2. Punakha Suspension Bridge: One of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan
  3. Chimi Lhakhang: The "Fertility Temple" famous for its blessings
  4. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A scenic hike with amazing views
  5. Pho Chhu & Mo Chhu Rivers: Great for river rafting

  1. Paro to Punakha: ~4.5-5 hours (130 km)
  2. Thimphu to Punakha: ~3 hours (85 km)

  1. Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN)
  2. Indian Rupees (except ?2,000 notes) are accepted

  1. Taxis: Available for local sightseeing (bargain fares)
  2. Buses: Limited but available from Thimphu & Paro

  1. Local Dishes: Ema Datshi (spicy chili cheese), Phaksha Paa (pork with chilies)
  2. Other Cuisines: Indian, Chinese, and Continental food available

Yes, Punakha is very safe for tourists with friendly locals and low crime rates.

  1. Indians: Need a special Punakha permit, which can be obtained in Thimphu (carry passport/voter ID).
  2. Other foreign nationals: Require a Bhutan visa, arranged through a tour operator.
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