Thimphu to Punakha: All You Need to Know for 2026 Travel

Thimphu and Punakha are a great window into the culture, history, and beautiful landscapes of Bhutan. After Paro, the two cities are the best choices to start exploring more of the Himalayan kingdom.

Here, you can learn more about how to make the short journey from Thimphu to Punakha for better exploration of the breathtaking landscapes through the popular two destinations in Bhutan.

Where are Thimphu and Punakha?

Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, is in the western part of the country. It sits at an altitude of around 2,320 meters in a valley on the banks of the Wang Chhu River. The city is surrounded by forested mountains and is only around 65 km from Paro.

The distance from Thimphu to Punakha is around 72 kilometers. Located in the central part of western Bhutan, Punakha enjoys a mild climate, which comes partly from a lower altitude of around 1,200 meters. The fertile Punkha Valley is formed by two major rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. It is an important agricultural region with beautiful terraced rice fields.

How to Travel from Thimphu to Punakha? By Private Car, Bus, or Taxi

Generally, it takes around 3 hours to drive along the winding mountain roads from Thimphu to Phunakha. Most international travelers make the journey by private car. It’s the most comfortable and convenient way to travel. Your travel agency can arrange a professional driver with a safe vehicle. Their deep local knowledge will make the key stops more rewarding.

Local buses operate between the two cities, but are not recommended for most tourists. The buses can be crowded, and schedules might not align with your travel plans.

Taxis are another option, but the cost is high. Domestic travelers sometimes use taxis for short distances, but transportation arranged by your tour operator is the most reliable solution when traveling between cities.

How about the road conditions from Thimphu to Punakha? Well-Maintained Mountain Roads

Thimphu to Punakha is a regularly traveled route on Bhutan tours, and the roads are mostly well-maintained. Bhutan uses the sustainable development fee collected from tourists to maintain a modern, well-paved road system. The journey from Thimphu to Punakha is safe, but be prepared for some narrow and winding sections, particularly through the high-mountain passes.

The peak of the journey is through Dochula Pass at 3,100 meters. The roads wind and meander up the mountain slopes, and then descend to the Punakha Valley. However, with a professional driver, you can feel relaxed. They’ll take the curves slowly and cautiously.

Travel Tips:
Because of the elevation changes and winding nature, it’s common to experience some motion sickness. If you think you might be uncomfortable, bring some motion sickness medicine for the ride.

Top Attractions along the Way from Thimphu to Punakha

Going from Thimphu to Punakha is about more than just reaching the destination. There are attractions along the way that make the journey an experience to enjoy.

Dochula Pass is the most famous stop on the route. At 3,100 meters, the high mountain pass has incredible panoramic views of the Himalayas. The best time for good visibility is during the spring and autumn. The site is also home to the 108 memorial chortens built to honor Bhutanese soldiers.

Druk Wangyal Lhakhang is a temple built to honor Bhutan’s fourth king. There, you can see intricate paintings that blend traditional and contemporary themes. The paintings depict historical and modern events, showing fascinating narratives of Bhutanese history.

Chimi Lhakhang is called the fertility temple. It’s one of Bhutan’s most unique religious sites. Pilgrims visit the temple to receive blessings. Visit in the spring or autumn and enjoy the easy hike through the rice fields to reach the site.

How to Plan a Thimphu to Punakha Tour? Day Tour or Overnight Stay?

Only 2-3 hours apart, it’s possible to make a day trip to Punakha from Thimphu, but an overnight stay will let you have a richer experience.

On the first day, you can set out early, enjoy the view from Dochula Pass in the morning light, and linger to enjoy the setting around Chimi Lhakhang. Then, visit Punakha Dzong, one of the largest in Bhutan.

The next day, you can tour the area before returning to Thimphu. You can take a short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning temple perched above the valley with sweeping views. See the view of Punakha’s rivers from the suspension bridge, and see interesting sites like Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup nunnery.

When is the Best Time to Travel from Thimphu to Punakha?

The best time to visit Bhutan is spring and autumn. Between April to May, spring brings a lushness to the thick forests. Blooming rhododendron blossoms color the land, for incredible scenic landscapes.

Autumn and winter have the clearest views. From October to February, rain is minimal. Sunny, clear skies bring perfect visibility. From Dochula Pass, you can see breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas.

June to August is the monsoon season in Bhutan, and not a recommended time to visit. Rain is frequent and sometimes heavy. Trekking routes are muddy, and views can be obscured by mist and cloud.

More Insider Tips for Traveling from Thimphu to Punakha

The altitude changes from Thimphu to Punakha rise from 2,320m to 3,100m at Dochula Pass, then descend to 1,200m. It is not common for tourists visiting Bhutan get altitude sicknes. However, if you feel uncomfortable, let your guide know immediately.

Dress in layers so you can adapt to changing temperatures. Since Punakha is warmer than Thimphu for its lower altitude, you can wear an easy-to-take-off coat in case you feel hot upon arrival in Punakha.

It is suggested to bring snacks and water for the drive from Thimphu to Punakha, as there aren’t many places to stop and buy things along the way. En route, you can enjoy a cup of tea at the café on Dochula Pass.

Conclusion

The trip from Thimphu to Punakha is a great way to see more of the unique sites in Bhutan. It’s a beautiful journey through lush forests and up winding mountain roads. Travel by private car for the most convenient experience.

Our tour packages include all logistics to get you from place to place in comfort and safety. With experienced guides and drivers, you won’t miss any hidden gems, and you can learn the stories and customs to fully appreciate the unique experience of this Himalayan kingdom.

Contact us anytime to start planning your dream Bhutan vacation.