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Things to do in Punakha

Punakha district in western Bhutan is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and cultural experiences. It is home to the iconic Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most impressive fortresses and monasteries, situated at the confluence of two rivers. Punakha's rolling hills, fertile rice fields, and diverse flora and fauna make it perfect for trekking and hiking, including the popular Punakha Winter Trek. Additionally, adventure enthusiasts can indulge in river rafting and kayaking on the nearby Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers. Experience the heart of Bhutan's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure in Punakha.

EXPERIENCES

A range of thrilling experiences handpicked by our experts. Don’t see one that’s just right for you? No problem. Our local insiders will create precisely what you want.

Explore Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Phodrang Dzong, is an architectural masterpiece situated at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. Built in the 17th century, the Dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until the mid-20th century. The fortress houses important religious relics and is adorned with intricate wood carvings, murals, and statues. It is also the site of the annual Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tsechu festivals.

Chimi Lhakhang

Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, is a small monastery dedicated to the "Divine Madman" Lama Drukpa Kunley. This 15th-century temple is believed to bless couples with fertility and is visited by locals and tourists seeking children or a unique cultural experience. The temple is surrounded by picturesque rice fields and traditional Bhutanese houses.

Hiking and Trekking

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a stunning temple built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan in the 1990s. The hike to the chorten takes you through terraced rice fields, pine forests, and charming villages. Once at the temple, you can explore its beautifully painted interiors and enjoy panoramic views of the Punakha Valley.

Suspension Bridge

The Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, spans over 520 feet (160 meters) across the Pho Chhu river. The bridge is adorned with prayer flags and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes. Crossing the bridge is a thrilling experience and a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts.

Rafting or Kayaking

Punakha's rivers offer exciting opportunities for adventure sports such as river rafting and kayaking. Both Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers have stretches with varying difficulty levels, making them suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike. Enjoy the adrenaline rush while admiring the stunning landscapes and birdlife along the riverbanks.

Cultural Experience

Talo Monastery, located on a hilltop overlooking the Punakha Valley, is an important religious site that houses ancient statues and sacred texts. The nearby Nobgang Village, the birthplace of Bhutan's four queens, offers insights into traditional Bhutanese village life. Stroll through the village's terraced fields, interact with the locals, and witness their unique customs and traditions.

BHUTAN CHOMOLHARI TREK & HERITAGE TOUR

Trek Bhutan's iconic Chomolhari route and explore ancient temples, remote valleys, and high mountain passes. This 13-day holiday blends cultural heritage with stunning Himalayan scenery, offering a balanced mix of adventure, rest, and insight into Bhutanese life—all delivered with expert care and comfort by Asian Geographical.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

Price For Person

From £5,700

BHUTAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ADVENTURE

Cycle across Bhutan’s spectacular mountain passes, valleys, and cultural heartlands on this 16-day adventure. From iconic monasteries to remote villages, experience the country’s spiritual depth, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for active travellers seeking a unique blend of challenge, nature, and heritage in the heart of the Himalayas.

Interest

Biking/Cycling, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

16 days

Price For Person

From £10,950

BHUTAN’S HIDDEN VALLEYS EXPLORER

Journey through Bhutan’s hidden valleys and remote cultural heartlands on this immersive 14-day explorer tour. Discover historic dzongs, scenic countryside, and village traditions, with comfortable stays and a trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. A perfect blend of nature, heritage, and authentic experiences in the less-travelled corners of Bhutan.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

EASTERN BHUTAN’S LHUNTSI WEAVING TREK

Join the 12-day Lhuntsi Trek through Bhutan, one of the immersive Bhutan tours. This journey offers spiritual discovery and natural beauty, giving you the chance to discover Bhutan’s unique culture and scenic landscapes. From the historic Punakha Dzong to the weaving village of Khoma, be in Bhutan’s culture, sacred sites and landscapes, culminating in a mix of adventure and cultural enlightenment.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £5,800

EXPLORE THE SOUL OF THE HIMALAYAS

Discover Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet on a 13-day luxury journey through sacred landscapes, ancient temples, and living traditions. This enriching Himalayan tour offers spiritual encounters, vibrant markets, cultural depth, and majestic scenery — all with private guiding, seamless travel, and thoughtful experiences curated by Asian Geographical.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

Price For Person

From £16,670

GRAND CULTURAL AND SCENIC ODYSSEY: INDIA AND BHUTAN

Embark on an 18-day Grand Cultural and Scenic Odyssey through India and Bhutan, exploring ancient wonders, architectural marvels, and spiritual sanctuaries. From the historic lanes of Delhi to the serene heights of Bhutan and the vibrant life of Mumbai, this tour promises a mosaic of unforgettable experiences.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

18 days

Price For Person

From £19,130

HIMALAYAN HERITAGE & CULTURAL ODYSSEY: INDIA & BHUTAN

Embark on a 22-day cultural and spiritual odyssey through India and Bhutan, exploring the art, history, and religious practices of two Himalayan realms. From the vibrant streets of New Delhi and the colonial echoes of Calcutta to the serene landscapes of Darjeeling and the sacred sites of Bhutan, this journey offers an immersive exploration of the region's rich traditions and breathtaking natural beauty.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

22 days

Price For Person

From £16,350

HIMALAYAN MAJESTY: NEPAL AND BHUTAN EXPLORER

Embark on a 19-day odyssey through Nepal and Bhutan, exploring the cultural vibrancy of Kathmandu, the natural splendour of Chitwan, and the spiritual sanctity of Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Paro. This journey offers an immersive experience into the heart of Himalayan spirituality, wildlife, and heritage, culminating in a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

19 days

Price For Person

From £16,300

HIMALAYAN PILGRIMAGE: JOURNEY THROUGH SACRED LANDS

Embark on a 19-day spiritual journey through the Himalayas, experiencing Hinduism and Buddhism's essence. From Rishikesh's holy Ganges to Lumbini and the majestic Potala Palace in Tibet, this exploration offers deep immersion in sacred traditions, ancient temples, and meditation, leading to profound inner peace and awakening.

Interest

Heritage, Wellbeing & Yoga, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, India, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

19 days

Price For Person

From £12,360

INDIA & BHUTAN WELLNESS & HIKING TOUR

This 14-day India & Bhutan Wellness & Hiking Tour combines cultural discovery with spiritual reflection and gentle adventure. Explore sacred sites, enjoy soft hikes, and unwind at a world-class Himalayan wellness retreat. A journey designed for travellers seeking culture, tranquillity, and a deeper connection with nature and themselves.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £15,430

BHUTAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ADVENTURE

Cycle across Bhutan’s spectacular mountain passes, valleys, and cultural heartlands on this 16-day adventure. From iconic monasteries to remote villages, experience the country’s spiritual depth, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for active travellers seeking a unique blend of challenge, nature, and heritage in the heart of the Himalayas.

Interest

Biking/Cycling, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

16 days

Price For Person

From £10,950

EXPLORE THE SOUL OF THE HIMALAYAS

Discover Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet on a 13-day luxury journey through sacred landscapes, ancient temples, and living traditions. This enriching Himalayan tour offers spiritual encounters, vibrant markets, cultural depth, and majestic scenery — all with private guiding, seamless travel, and thoughtful experiences curated by Asian Geographical.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

Price For Person

From £16,670

GRAND CULTURAL AND SCENIC ODYSSEY: INDIA AND BHUTAN

Embark on an 18-day Grand Cultural and Scenic Odyssey through India and Bhutan, exploring ancient wonders, architectural marvels, and spiritual sanctuaries. From the historic lanes of Delhi to the serene heights of Bhutan and the vibrant life of Mumbai, this tour promises a mosaic of unforgettable experiences.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

18 days

Price For Person

From £19,130

HIMALAYAN HERITAGE & CULTURAL ODYSSEY: INDIA & BHUTAN

Embark on a 22-day cultural and spiritual odyssey through India and Bhutan, exploring the art, history, and religious practices of two Himalayan realms. From the vibrant streets of New Delhi and the colonial echoes of Calcutta to the serene landscapes of Darjeeling and the sacred sites of Bhutan, this journey offers an immersive exploration of the region's rich traditions and breathtaking natural beauty.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

22 days

Price For Person

From £16,350

HIMALAYAN MAJESTY: NEPAL AND BHUTAN EXPLORER

Embark on a 19-day odyssey through Nepal and Bhutan, exploring the cultural vibrancy of Kathmandu, the natural splendour of Chitwan, and the spiritual sanctity of Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Paro. This journey offers an immersive experience into the heart of Himalayan spirituality, wildlife, and heritage, culminating in a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

19 days

Price For Person

From £16,300

HIMALAYAN PILGRIMAGE: JOURNEY THROUGH SACRED LANDS

Embark on a 19-day spiritual journey through the Himalayas, experiencing Hinduism and Buddhism's essence. From Rishikesh's holy Ganges to Lumbini and the majestic Potala Palace in Tibet, this exploration offers deep immersion in sacred traditions, ancient temples, and meditation, leading to profound inner peace and awakening.

Interest

Heritage, Wellbeing & Yoga, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, India, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

19 days

Price For Person

From £12,360

INDIA & BHUTAN WELLNESS & HIKING TOUR

This 14-day India & Bhutan Wellness & Hiking Tour combines cultural discovery with spiritual reflection and gentle adventure. Explore sacred sites, enjoy soft hikes, and unwind at a world-class Himalayan wellness retreat. A journey designed for travellers seeking culture, tranquillity, and a deeper connection with nature and themselves.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £15,430

INDIA BHUTAN HIKING & WELLNESS TOUR

Explore India and Bhutan through scenic hikes, cultural discovery, and spiritual wellness. Walk sacred trails, visit monasteries and villages, and unwind at a luxury spa in the Himalayas. This journey blends light adventure with Ayurvedic healing, offering a peaceful and enriching experience across two extraordinary regions.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, Wellbeing & Yoga, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

INTO THE HEART OF THE HIMALAYAS TOUR

Journey through Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet on a 13-day luxury cultural tour of the Himalayas. Explore ancient temples, remote monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes while enjoying personalised experiences, expert guides, and boutique stays. This immersive trip offers a rare insight into the region’s spiritual traditions, artistic heritage, and natural beauty.

Interest

Heritage, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

NEPAL & BHUTAN EXPLORER

This 13-day luxury tour explores the cultural wonders and natural beauty of Nepal and Bhutan. From Kathmandu’s temples and Chitwan’s wildlife to Bhutan’s mountain monasteries and heritage sites, enjoy a personalised journey filled with comfort, insight, and unforgettable landscapes across two of Asia’s most fascinating Himalayan countries. Experience unique adventures and expertly led guided tours in each country, ensuring immersive and memorable travel experiences.

Interest

Heritage, Nature & Wildlife, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

BHUTAN CHOMOLHARI TREK & HERITAGE TOUR

Trek Bhutan's iconic Chomolhari route and explore ancient temples, remote valleys, and high mountain passes. This 13-day holiday blends cultural heritage with stunning Himalayan scenery, offering a balanced mix of adventure, rest, and insight into Bhutanese life—all delivered with expert care and comfort by Asian Geographical.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

Price For Person

From £5,700

BHUTAN MOUNTAIN CYCLING ADVENTURE

Cycle across Bhutan’s spectacular mountain passes, valleys, and cultural heartlands on this 16-day adventure. From iconic monasteries to remote villages, experience the country’s spiritual depth, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for active travellers seeking a unique blend of challenge, nature, and heritage in the heart of the Himalayas.

Interest

Biking/Cycling, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

16 days

Price For Person

From £10,950

BHUTAN’S HIDDEN VALLEYS EXPLORER

Journey through Bhutan’s hidden valleys and remote cultural heartlands on this immersive 14-day explorer tour. Discover historic dzongs, scenic countryside, and village traditions, with comfortable stays and a trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. A perfect blend of nature, heritage, and authentic experiences in the less-travelled corners of Bhutan.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

EASTERN BHUTAN’S LHUNTSI WEAVING TREK

Join the 12-day Lhuntsi Trek through Bhutan, one of the immersive Bhutan tours. This journey offers spiritual discovery and natural beauty, giving you the chance to discover Bhutan’s unique culture and scenic landscapes. From the historic Punakha Dzong to the weaving village of Khoma, be in Bhutan’s culture, sacred sites and landscapes, culminating in a mix of adventure and cultural enlightenment.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £5,800

EXPLORE THE SOUL OF THE HIMALAYAS

Discover Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet on a 13-day luxury journey through sacred landscapes, ancient temples, and living traditions. This enriching Himalayan tour offers spiritual encounters, vibrant markets, cultural depth, and majestic scenery — all with private guiding, seamless travel, and thoughtful experiences curated by Asian Geographical.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

Price For Person

From £16,670

GRAND CULTURAL AND SCENIC ODYSSEY: INDIA AND BHUTAN

Embark on an 18-day Grand Cultural and Scenic Odyssey through India and Bhutan, exploring ancient wonders, architectural marvels, and spiritual sanctuaries. From the historic lanes of Delhi to the serene heights of Bhutan and the vibrant life of Mumbai, this tour promises a mosaic of unforgettable experiences.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

18 days

Price For Person

From £19,130

HIMALAYAN HERITAGE & CULTURAL ODYSSEY: INDIA & BHUTAN

Embark on a 22-day cultural and spiritual odyssey through India and Bhutan, exploring the art, history, and religious practices of two Himalayan realms. From the vibrant streets of New Delhi and the colonial echoes of Calcutta to the serene landscapes of Darjeeling and the sacred sites of Bhutan, this journey offers an immersive exploration of the region's rich traditions and breathtaking natural beauty.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

22 days

Price For Person

From £16,350

HIMALAYAN MAJESTY: NEPAL AND BHUTAN EXPLORER

Embark on a 19-day odyssey through Nepal and Bhutan, exploring the cultural vibrancy of Kathmandu, the natural splendour of Chitwan, and the spiritual sanctity of Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Paro. This journey offers an immersive experience into the heart of Himalayan spirituality, wildlife, and heritage, culminating in a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, Nepal

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

19 days

Price For Person

From £16,300

HIMALAYAN PILGRIMAGE: JOURNEY THROUGH SACRED LANDS

Embark on a 19-day spiritual journey through the Himalayas, experiencing Hinduism and Buddhism's essence. From Rishikesh's holy Ganges to Lumbini and the majestic Potala Palace in Tibet, this exploration offers deep immersion in sacred traditions, ancient temples, and meditation, leading to profound inner peace and awakening.

Interest

Heritage, Wellbeing & Yoga, AONB

Destination

Bhutan, India, Nepal, Tibet

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

19 days

Price For Person

From £12,360

INDIA & BHUTAN WELLNESS & HIKING TOUR

This 14-day India & Bhutan Wellness & Hiking Tour combines cultural discovery with spiritual reflection and gentle adventure. Explore sacred sites, enjoy soft hikes, and unwind at a world-class Himalayan wellness retreat. A journey designed for travellers seeking culture, tranquillity, and a deeper connection with nature and themselves.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking

Destination

Bhutan, India

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £15,430

WONDERS OF BHUTAN

Explore Bhutan's heart on a transformative journey. Traverse its diverse landscapes, from Thimphu's vibrant streets to the serene Gangtey Valley. Experience Punakha's fortresses and Paro's Tiger's Nest Monastery, delving into the country's rich culture, spirituality, and the unique philosophy of happiness.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Bhutan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

10 days

Boutique

The Amankora Resort in Punakha was built by a former Chief Abbot of Bhutan as a residence to oversee the surrounding rice paddies and fruit orchards. The quaint, three-storey structure is now the combined common guest area. The Dining Room is situated on the ground floor, and the upper floors offer relaxation areas. The Courtyard of the farmhouse is suitable for outdoor dining and beyond is the two-storey Spa which provides yoga/meditation room.

Wellness Retreat

COMO Uma Punakha is a beautiful resort, perched on a hillside overlooking the Mo Chu River. The hotel overlooks the Punakha Valley with lush-green paddy fields and rolling forested mountains. This low-lying valley serves as an interesting destination for both summer and winter touring. In this beautiful and interesting destination, Uma Punakha offers just 11 rooms, all spread out along a ridge, taking in the valleys fresh air and offering jaw-dropping views.

Boutique

Six Senses Punakha, often referred to as the “Flying Farmhouse,” is a stunning architectural marvel located in the lush Punakha Valley of Bhutan. The hotel’s design combines traditional Bhutanese architecture with contemporary elements, creating a harmonious blend that respects the local culture and environment. Elevated structures and cantilevered buildings provide breathtaking views of the valley and the terraced rice fields below. The use of natural materials such as wood and stone enhances the connection to the surrounding landscape.

Boutique

Dhensa is a luxury boutique hotel, set along a pine-forested ridge, overlooking the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. Flanked by thick pine forests and surrounded by numerous walking trails, Dhensa Resort overlooks the Punakha River and hundreds of rice paddy fields that terrace down to the valley floor. It is not surprising therefore that the core of the Dhensa philosophy lies in reviving your senses, and immersing yourself in the peace and beauty of nature that surrounds it.

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What Others Say

Here’s what our customers have to say about their Asian Geographical experience

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A COUPLE FROM KENT

“Thank you for suggesting the helicopter ride to Everest Base Camp and breakfast with a view of Mt Everest—a truly spectacular moment.”

Bhutan, Nepal
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A COUPLE FROM ESSEX

“The history and cultural specialists also deserve a mention for the way they illuminated the heritage of the places we visited, as does the Buddhist scholar with his apparently boundless knowledge.”

Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand
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A SMALL GROUP FROM SURREY

“We were very impressed to learn that its CEO had led some amazing first-ever expeditions … Clearly, he’s still an ace at organising expeditions.”

Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet
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A COUPLE FROM LEICESTER

“Tibet was a revelation … it surely was a blessing to travel back to the region after 50 years … Thank you, Asian Geographical Expeditions, for making this possible.”

Bhutan, India, Nepal, Tibet
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