Thimphu to Punakha
Your options
Ways to make the trip
2.5–3 hours
₹3,500–4,500 per car · The usual way. Your guide and driver collect you in Thimphu, stop at Dochula and Chimi Lhakhang on the way, and continue to Punakha.
3–3.5 hours
About Nu 120–150 a seat · Public buses run from Thimphu to Khuruthang near Punakha. Locals use them; tourists still need a guide in Punakha district, so it suits few visitors.
Worth a stop
- Simtokha Dzong at the edge of Thimphu
- Dochula pass and the 108 chortens
- Lampelri botanical park below Dochula
- Chimi Lhakhang at Sopsokha
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long is the drive from Thimphu to Punakha?
About 2.5–3 hours for 72 km, plus stops. The road climbs to Dochula at about 3,100 m and drops about 1,800 m to Punakha. With stops at Dochula and Chimi Lhakhang, allow 4–5 hours. Road works occasionally hold traffic for short periods.
Do I need a permit for Punakha?
Yes. Punakha is outside Thimphu and Paro, so you need a route permit issued in Thimphu or online, and a licensed guide. Your tour operator usually arranges both. Carry your entry permit and ID, as there are checkpoints on the road. Check current status before you travel.
Can I see snow on the way to Punakha?
Dochula sometimes gets snow between December and February, which can dust the chortens and, rarely, slow traffic. Punakha itself does not get snow; it is warm at about 1,250 m. Ask your guide about road conditions on winter mornings. Carry a warm layer for the stop at the pass.
Should I stay in Punakha or return to Thimphu the same day?
Stay at least one night. A same-day return means 5–6 hours in the car and little time at the dzong. A night in Punakha lets you see the dzong in the afternoon light, visit Chimi Lhakhang and the suspension bridge, and continue to Phobjikha or back to Paro next day.