Punakha: This town serves as the summer capital and is home to the most beautiful dzong in the whole of Bhutan. The multi-storied Punakha Dzong, built on the banks of the Punakha River, is breathtakingly intricate in detail and elaborate in plan. The moat on the way to the entrance, with the Punakha River flowing below, lends the perfect backdrop for photography.

The Chimi Lakhang monastery on the outskirts of Punakha, is dedicated to “the divine madman” a legendary figure who saved the local inhabitants from a demon. Bhutanese come here after the birth of their children to pray for their good health and well-being.

Dochu La pass is another tourist attraction, primarily noteworthy for its 108 memorial stupas or chortens as they are known locally. In winter, a sheet of snow blankets the place, keeping it much cooler than its surroundings at all times of the year and offers great views of the valley and hills. The colourful prayer flags fluttering in misty breezes, amidst the numerous stupas give a feeling of spiritual sanguinity, a constant feeling that echoes through this blessed land.