Drive from Thimphu to Punakha - Wangdue || Drive between Thimphu and Punakha
The scenic journey from Thimphu to Punakha/Wangdue spans approximately 75 kilometers and takes around 3 hours. Departing from Thimphu, the road immediately begins its ascent, passing through notable landmarks such as the Agricultural Research Center at Yusupang, Hongtsho village, and Tibetan settlements, eventually reaching the majestic Dochula Pass at an elevation of 3,150 meters. Dochula Pass is a striking site adorned with a vibrant display of prayer flags and a cluster of 108 chortens, providing a mesmerizing panoramic view of the Himalayan range, including Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan's highest peak. Descending from Dochula, the road winds through ever-changing vegetation, passing by villages until it arrives at the Metsina junction. Here, the road to Punakha diverges from the main highway, leading north to Wangdue. From Metsina, it's a short 7-kilometer drive to Kuruthang town, followed by approximately half an hour to reach the historic Punakha Dzong.
