Find hotels in Punakha from $34

Top reasons to visit Punakha

• Stunning Punakha Dzong: A must-see architectural marvel, the Punakha Dzong showcases Bhutan's rich history and culture.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: Explore breathtaking trails that offer stunning views of the Himalayas and serene landscapes.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling rafting experiences and riverside barbecues for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage with local art and traditions, enhancing your understanding of Bhutanese culture.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy lodges to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit.

Find great hotels near Punakha

Discover the charm of Punakha with a range of hotel accommodations designed to meet every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a cozy lodge, a luxurious resort, or a business-friendly hotel, Punakha offers a variety of options. Experience pet-friendly stays and rejuvenating spa services, ensuring a memorable vacation. Explore hotel reviews to find the perfect fit for your trip to this beautiful Bhutanese destination.

• City Hotel Thimphu: A well-appointed 3.5-star hotel that caters primarily to business travelers seeking a productive getaway. Located 16 miles from Punakha, the hotel provides a range of facilities including a Meeting Room, Conference Center, and Business Center, making it an ideal location for corporate retreats or meetings. Guests appreciate the modern amenities and convenient access to local businesses, ensuring both comfort and efficiency during their stay.
• Pemako Thimphu: This luxurious 5-star hotel is perfect for travelers desiring a spa-themed experience combined with business amenities. Situated 16 miles from Punakha, Pemako Thimphu offers a full spa service complete with treatment rooms for massages and deep tissue therapy, ensuring relaxation after a busy day. Business travelers will benefit from the Conference Space and multiple Meeting Rooms, combining luxury with productivity. Guests rave about the serene environment and top-notch service that enhances their overall experience.
• Hotel Bhutan: A charming 3-star accommodation option located 16 miles from Punakha, Hotel Bhutan offers a cozy atmosphere with essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy an array of dining options, including a restaurant and breakfast services. Entertainment features such as a flatscreen TV and cable ensure that you stay connected and entertained during your visit. The friendly staff and inviting environment make it a great choice for both leisure and business travelers alike.

Where to stay near Punakha

Punakha, Bhutan, offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and stunning scenery. Nestled in the picturesque Punakha Valley, this charming city is home to remarkable attractions and rich cultural experiences, all while enjoying a friendly atmosphere with low crowds. From exploring historical sites to indulging in local hospitality at cozy hotels, your vacation in Punakha promises unforgettable excursions and breathtaking landscapes that capture the essence of Bhutan.

• Thimphu: Thimphu, located 16 miles from Punakha, is the vibrant capital city of Bhutan, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Visitors are drawn to its cultural experiences, bustling markets, and scenic hiking trails. Whether exploring the iconic Tashichho Dzong or participating in local festivals, Thimphu provides an enriching environment for travelers. The city’s public market is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in local life, while the surrounding monasteries and monuments highlight the spiritual essence of Bhutan.
• Wangdue Phodrang: Just 7 miles away from Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang is a beautiful city known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. The city sees a moderate influx of tourists, especially during its peak seasons from March to May. Wangdue Phodrang is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, offering birdwatching opportunities and various festivals that showcase local culture. The nearby mountains and parks provide breathtaking views and hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Paro: Located 29 miles from Punakha, Paro is a city steeped in culture and history, attracting visitors year-round. The vibrant scene in Paro includes bustling markets and educational centers, perfect for both families and culture lovers. The city is home to the famous Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), offering breathtaking views and a spiritual journey. As travelers explore the local monuments and places of worship, they will find themselves captivated by the rich heritage and scenic beauty that Paro has to offer.

Things to do near Punakha

Punakha offers a perfect blend of culture, scenic beauty, and adventure for tourists. You can explore stunning hiking trails, immerse yourself in local art, and enjoy major attractions like the Punakha Dzong. For outdoor enthusiasts, quality rafting experiences and riverside barbecues add to the adventure, making your visit unforgettable.

Shopping

Punakha offers a vibrant shopping scene. The Weekend Market, located 15 miles away, features local crafts and food in a lively atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, the Paro Sunday Market, 29 miles away, showcases a variety of goods with a bustling city feel.

Recreation

In Punakha, visit Changlimithang Stadium for an energetic atmosphere where you can enjoy sports activities. Alternatively, relax at the Royal Thimphu Golf Course, set in beautiful outdoor surroundings, perfect for unwinding while playing a round of golf or simply soaking in the scenic views.

Adventure

Punakha offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences on the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, perfect for adrenaline junkies. Hike to the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for breathtaking views, or embark on a captivating trek through lush valleys and picturesque villages showcasing Bhutan's rich culture and scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Punakha at Chimi Lhakhang Cafe, where you can enjoy local brews and a cozy atmosphere. For a unique experience, visit the Punakha Dzong, which is beautifully lit at night, offering a serene backdrop for evening strolls and reflections.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Punakha

To save money on your trip to Punakha, visit during the cheaper months of January and June to July, and aim to book hotels about a month in advance for the best rates. Wednesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider joining their One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Look for last-minute deals, and don’t forget to combine hotel and flight bookings for additional savings. Explore free activities like visiting local temples and enjoying nature trails to maximize your experience without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Punakha are January and June to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Punakha is usually 1 month 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 Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Punakha is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you're looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you a list of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Punakha hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in and around Punakha

Punakha is a perfect destination for culture, scenery, and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as the stunning Punakha Dzong and the serene Pemako. The area offers a rich blend of history, breathtaking mountain views, and cultural experiences that cater to all types of travelers seeking memorable adventures in Bhutan.

• Dochula Pass: Located 8 miles from Punakha, Dochula Pass offers breathtaking mountain scenery and adventure opportunities. The stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas are complemented by 108 chortens (stupas) that create a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Punakha Dzong: Nestled within Punakha, this majestic temple is a cultural gem. Known as the 'Palace of Great Happiness,' it showcases intricate architecture and rich history, serving as a spiritual and administrative center. Visitors can explore its beautiful courtyards and learn about Bhutanese traditions.
• National Institute for Zorig Chusum: Located 7 miles from Punakha, this institute offers insightful excursions into Bhutan’s traditional arts. Here, you can witness students mastering the 13 different crafts of Bhutan, providing a unique glimpse into the country's vibrant culture and craftsmanship.

Best time to go to Punakha

The best time to visit Punakha is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly 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	Slightly 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	Slightly High	Average
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
June	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
July	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
August	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Punakha

To reach Punakha, Bhutan, you will likely fly into Paro International Airport (PBH), situated 30 miles away. Nearby hotel options include COMO Uma Paro, a luxurious 5-star hotel just 0.9 mile from the airport, providing easy access. Another excellent choice is Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront, a 5-star resort located 2 miles away, also offering convenient transport to the airport. Zhiwaling Heritage, another 5-star hotel, is situated 6 miles from PBH. These hotels provide reliable transportation services to make your journey to Punakha smooth and enjoyable.