How to Reach Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled in the heart of Bhutan’s scenic landscapes, Punakha is a significant spot in Bhutan’s “Golden Triangle” of tourism, captivating travelers with its lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and historic landmarks. Once the capital of Bhutan until 1955, Punakha lies at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Here’s a guide on how to reach Punakha by air, train, and road.

To get to Punakha by air, you must first fly into Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international airport, approximately 124 km from Punakha. Flights to Paro are available from select cities, including Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, and Bodh Gaya in India, as well as Singapore, Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Dhaka. From Paro, you can travel by road to Punakha, which typically takes around 3-4 hours by car.

Since Bhutan does not have its own railway network, travelers can take a train to Hasimara Railway Station in West Bengal, India. Located about 17 km from Jaigaon on the Indo-Bhutan border, this station is the nearest point for rail travelers. From Jaigaon, a road journey via Phuentsholing and Thimphu will bring you to Punakha, providing a scenic experience as you traverse through Bhutan’s mountainous terrain.

For those opting for a road trip, Jaigaon in West Bengal is the gateway town to Bhutan, with Phuentsholing being the entry point on the Bhutanese side. From Phuentsholing, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to travel through Thimphu and onwards to Punakha. The journey by road is roughly 8 hours, offering views of lush valleys, quaint villages, and Himalayan landscapes.