The Winter Capital

The road to Punakha winds up from Simtokha Dzong into pine forest and through villages for 20Kms. Dochula Pass at 10,500feet. just 45 minutes from Thimphu, on a clear day, offers visitors a panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayan range. The road continues down the valley to the relative lowlands of the Punakha valley. The Punakha Dzong dominates the valley floor. Before Thimphu was made the capital of Bhutan, Punakha held the title as the Winter capital because of its temperate climate. Till today, the old custom of moving from Thimphu to Punakha and back, is still followed by the Je Khenpo (Head of Bhutan’s religious order) and the monk body. If your visit coincides with their migration, you might be lucky to see the ceremonial process.

Punakha dzong was strategically built at the confluence of the Phochu (male) and the Mochu (female) rivers by the first Shabdrung of Bhutan, Ngawang Namgyal in 1637. It has been destroyed by four fires and an earthquake in 1807 and has been frequently devastated by flood water coming from the great northern glaciers. The dzong has now been fully restored to its original splendour. In 1993 the largest Thongdrel, a religious embroidery composed entirely of applique on silk brocade, that has ever been created was dedicated to the dzong and the people of Punakha by His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck and the Je Khenpo at a three-day consecration.

Short hikes around Punakha

Hike from Chorten Nebu to Kabji Hoko Tso An early start is advisable. Drive on to Sirigang (alt.about 1600m), passing by the Punakha Dzong, and following the Mo chu (chu=river) about 1/2hrs drive. From Sirigang start hike to Chorten Nebu (alt.about 1800m). The climb is steep and would take about 2hrs. From Chorten Nebu continue to Kabji Hoko Tso (alt.about 2000m), the climb is not as steep, taking about 3.30mins.

Chorten Nebu, literally translates to “the Old temple”, was built around the 14th Century by the brother of Lam Drup Kinley Chogyel. There is an old oak tree, that has much significance and a very interesting story.

From Chorten Nebu continue to Kabji Hoko Tso (tso=lake), through dense mixed forests. The climb is gradual, and the track is narrow. There are no inhabitants. You might be able to spot deer, wild boar, and other animals. The entire excursion should take about 8hrs. The path follows the ridge, through wooded areas of chirpine and mixed forests. You pass through village houses and cultivated fields of paddy.

Accommodation in Punakha

HOTEL ZANGTOPELRI
Spectacularly located on a point high above the tranquil semi-tropical valley, the hotel features spacious, well appointed rooms in small cabins. Guests enjoy 220 degree views of rice terraces, the river, and the interplay of dramatic and constantly changing himalayan weather of the valley.

The hotel is conveniently located 20 kilometres from Punkha town and the dzong, and 45 minutes drive from Wangdue Phodrang.
Room Capacity: 28 Rooms

Facilities:

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Laundry
• Attached bathrooms with running hot and cold water
• Handicraft
• Shopping
• Money Exchange
• A recently constructed swimming Pool to cool off in the Semi-Tropical Sun

HOTEL DRAGON’S NEST