Punakha doesn’t just serve views! The city has a slew of stimulating endeavours ranging from tipsy treks to freezing raftings. With a view that connects one to the inner self, some activities that make the body feel alive is a perfect combination which this city gives to each visitor.
Walk to Chimi Lhakhang Temple
Hiking through the low-lying canyons, in between of mushy paddy fields to get to the top of the hill where this fascinating temple is snuggled, is a surreal endeavour in itself. Considered as a figure of security and growth, the Chimi Lhakhang Temple, is for the ones who enjoy nature’s peculiarity and find joy in the mysterious beliefs and traditions of cultures.
White Water Rafting in Punakha
PIn this blissful kingdom, where calmness resides in each being, there flows the eternal waters of Mo Chhu River to add the missing exhilaration and sparkle the soul of the venturesome travellers. Gliding swiftly on this glacial fed stream, having icy winds gushing past one’s ears’ and tightly squeezing the freezing hands is an ultimate way of relishing this unreal realm.
Meditate at the Talo Monastery
The very air of Punakha is therapeutic! Trekking for an hour, leaving behind the picturesque valley to reach the Talo village and switching off from the surroundings for a little bit is the best thing a traveller can do for oneself. Immersing one’s soul in the rhythmic melody of nature and sipping in the moist harmony, is how the mind and body rejuvenates.
Go Bird watching in Jigme Dorji National Park
A paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife fanatics, the Jigme Dorji National Park beautifies the valley of Punakha with exotic flora and fauna. Spread over a glorious region of 4,316 square kilometres, this national park presents a plethora of beguiling sights for a travellers lens and sprinkles heart-throbbing moments to the trip.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
The trek is capable of leaving the visitors breathless, but the views of the valley and the serenity of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, is all worth it! Embraced with pure thoughts of worldwide peace, this temple has the most gorgeous prayer wheel and a soul-soothing ambiance. Listening to its tempting history from the guide while eyeing the mesmeric views from the top of the temple, is beyond surreal.
Ritsha
Not explored by many, Ritsha is one of the hidden gems in Punakha. This petite Bhutanese village is heart-warming and pleasing to all with its adorable locals, charming architecture and distinctive ways of rice cultivations. Roaming freely here, conversing with locals, admiring the vintage artistry of monasteries, and endearing the sweetness of a pristine environment is refreshing and a moment to remember!
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang
Catering to many deeds together, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang is the definition of goodness. Snuggled between brilliantly sculpted pieces of black marble, this is a temple and a nunnery. The whole compound is segregated into different sections - meditation centre, nun teaching areas and places where skills like embroidery and painting are taught. The comfort and kindness felt here is second to none.