Wangdue Phodrang, one of Bhutan’s largest districts, sits where the Punakha (Puna) Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers meet, on the main road between Punakha and central Bhutan. It is a district of striking contrasts, running from subtropical valleys in the south to the high alpine terrain of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in the north, and it remains one of the country’s centres for traditional stone and slate carving.

Key Attractions:

  1. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong:
    Built in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on a ridge above the confluence of the Punakha Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers, the dzong was gutted by fire in 2012 and has since been carefully rebuilt, with traditional artisans restoring its woodwork and murals.

  2. Rinchengang Village:
    A centuries-old settlement of tightly packed stone houses just below the dzong, home to generations of Bhutan’s most skilled stonemasons.

  3. Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park:
    One of Bhutan’s largest protected areas, spanning subtropical to alpine terrain and sheltering rare wildlife, including the red panda and, at higher elevations, the elusive snow leopard.

  4. Punatsangchhu River:
    The river running through the valley is a popular spot for rafting and riverside walks, with fine views back toward the dzong.

Wangdue Phodrang is best visited in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when its Tsechu festival of masked dances also takes place. It sits roughly 70 km (about a 2-hour drive) from Thimphu, making it a natural stop on the way to central and eastern Bhutan.