Find the best Punakha Hotels

Top reasons to visit Punakha

• Cultural Richness: Discover remarkable temples and ancient monasteries that showcase Bhutan's heritage and architectural beauty.
• Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling pursuits such as rafting and balloon rides, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Punakha, with its picturesque mountains and serene valleys.
• Authentic Bhutanese Experience: Immerse yourself in local traditions and customs, enriching your cultural journey.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels and charming resorts that cater to various preferences and needs.

Find great hotels in Punakha

Punakha offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to charming resorts. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat, a business-oriented stay, or a unique winery-themed experience, you'll find suitable choices such as Aman Bhutan, Amankora Punakha, and AndBeyond Punakha River Lodge. Enjoy the serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage while indulging in exceptional amenities designed to enhance your visit.

• Hotel Vara: Hotel Vara offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed stay in Punakha. This 3-star hotel features a variety of dining options, including a bar and lounge, as well as a restaurant serving buffet breakfast. Guests can unwind in their rooms equipped with cable television for entertainment. With its inviting atmosphere and focus on guest satisfaction, Hotel Vara provides a welcoming retreat after a day of exploring the stunning landscapes of Bhutan.
• The Four Boutique Hotel: Perfectly tailored for the business traveller, The Four Boutique Hotel combines modern amenities with a professional atmosphere. This 3-star property in Punakha is designed to cater to the needs of those on work-related trips while ensuring a comfortable stay. With its strategic location and thoughtful facilities, it offers an excellent base for both meetings and relaxation. The hotel’s dedication to providing quality service ensures that guests can focus on their work while enjoying the tranquillity of their surroundings.
• Zhingkham Resort: For those travelling with pets, Zhingkham Resort is the perfect destination, allowing a pet-friendly experience in the heart of Punakha. This 3-star resort not only welcomes pets but also ensures that their needs are met with thoughtful amenities and policies. Guests can enjoy a serene environment and spacious accommodations, making it a wonderful choice for families or individuals who wish to bring their furry companions along. The resort’s welcoming atmosphere provides a unique and memorable stay in Bhutan.

Where to stay in Punakha

Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, offers a captivating cultural experience with its stunning architecture and rich history. Nestled at a lower altitude, it serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, including majestic monasteries and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Bhutanese traditions while enjoying thrilling adventures amidst the serene backdrop of the Himalayas. A journey to Punakha promises an unforgettable blend of culture and adventure for every traveller.

• Punakha: Nestled in the picturesque valley of the Punakha District, this city is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The iconic Punakha Dzong, perched at the confluence of two rivers, is a must-visit, showcasing exquisite Bhutanese architecture. Visitors can indulge in various activities such as hiking through lush terrains, exploring vibrant local art, and immersing themselves in the peaceful atmosphere of its monasteries. With visitor numbers peaking from March to May, the city offers a vibrant experience filled with cultural festivals and scenic beauty throughout the year.
• Khuruthang: Just a short distance from Punakha, the charming village of Khuruthang offers a serene escape into rural Bhutanese life. Known for its warm hospitality, this quaint village is an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity and authentic cultural experiences. Travellers can wander through charming streets, interact with friendly locals, and enjoy the simplicity of village life. Although visitor numbers peak in May to June and October, Khuruthang remains a peaceful retreat throughout the year, making it perfect for a relaxed exploration of Bhutan's stunning landscapes.

Things to do in Punakha

Punakha is an ideal destination for culture-themed vacations, offering a delightful blend of activities for tourists. You can indulge in bespoke tours that showcase the rich heritage, experience an adrenaline rush with adventurous pursuits, and even take a balloon ride for breathtaking views of the stunning landscape. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Punakha has something to cater to every traveller's desires.

Shopping

Near the serene banks of the Punakha River, explore the vibrant Punakha Dzong Market for unique handicrafts and local textiles. For a wider selection, visit the nearby Wangdue Phodrang Market, where you'll find traditional Bhutanese souvenirs and delicious local snacks to take home.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Yasodhara Ashram, where meditation and yoga sessions rejuvenate the mind and body amidst serene surroundings. For a dash of adventure, the Punakha Suspension Bridge offers stunning valley views, perfect for a leisurely stroll and photography.

Adventure

Experience thrilling white-water rafting on the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, navigating exciting rapids amidst breathtaking scenery. For a different adventure, trek to the majestic Punakha Dzong, where you'll be captivated by its stunning architecture and serene surroundings.

Nightlife

Punakha’s nightlife is tranquil yet charming, with serene riverside spots. Enjoy a peaceful evening at the charming Yangkhil Resort Bar, or immerse yourself in local culture at the Punakha Dzong, where evening strolls offer breathtaking views under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Punakha

To save money on your trip to Punakha, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January and April to May, and aim to book hotels at least three months in advance for the best rates. Thursdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia’s tools to filter for eco-friendly accommodations and sort by price. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can also lead to significant savings. Don't forget to explore free attractions and local experiences to enhance your stay without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Punakha are January and April to May, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to September and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Punakha is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Punakha is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Punakha is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Punakha with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Punakha

Punakha is an ideal destination for culture-themed holidays, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can explore remarkable temples, stunning mountains, and poignant memorials that showcase the region's heritage. The variety of points of interest caters to those seeking cultural insights, adventure, and breathtaking scenery, ensuring a memorable visit for every traveller.

• Dochula Pass: Experience breathtaking mountain vistas at Dochula Pass, where adventure awaits amidst stunning scenery. This location offers outdoor activities and is the perfect spot for photography enthusiasts, with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Punakha Dzong: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Bhutan at Punakha Dzong, a magnificent temple that showcases exquisite architecture and intricate art. It stands as a symbol of Bhutanese heritage, situated at the confluence of two rivers.
• Dochula Chorten: Visit Dochula Chorten, a serene memorial adorned with beautiful stupas and prayer flags. This site is steeped in cultural significance, offering a tranquil atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of Bhutanese traditions.

Best time to go to Punakha

The best time to visit Punakha can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Punakha falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. The coolest average temperature in Punakha falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	34.5°F (1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	37.4°F (3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
April	47.7°F (8.700000000000001°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
May	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
September	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	37.9°F (3.3000000000000003°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Punakha

When visiting Punakha, Bhutan, the main gateway is Paro International Airport (PBH), situated 48.3km away. Several comfortable hotels are available nearby, such as the Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa, rated 4.5 stars, located 6.4km from the airport, offering transportation services for a fee. Another option is the Himalayan Tashi Phuntshok Hotel, Paro, a 3.5-star establishment just 966m from PBH, and the Soenam Tsokhang Resort, also rated 3.5 stars, located 3.2km away. These hotels provide convenient access to the airport, ensuring a smooth start to your Bhutanese adventure.