planetbreezy

Tell me your feedback! Feedback:

Wangdue Phodrang

Bhutan, Asia

Wangdue Phodrang is a charming town in Bhutan, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The majestic Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, perched on a hilltop, dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking views of the Punakha Valley. The region is also famous for its unique festivals, vibrant local markets, and traditional crafts. With proximity to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, it's an ideal spot for trekking and observing the endangered black-necked cranes during winter.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Other

Airport

Paro

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Wangdue Phodrang

1. Visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong

Explore the majestic fortress with stunning architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Hike to Punakha Dzong

Trek through beautiful valleys to a stunning dzong.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

3. Explore Phobjikha Valley

Visit the scenic valley known for black-necked cranes.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

4. Experience local cuisine at a village

Taste authentic Bhutanese dishes in a local setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Attend a traditional festival

Experience vibrant culture through colorful festivals.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Visit the Chimi Lhakhang

A temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, full of lore.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Take a hot stone bath

Relax in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

8. Visit the Wangdue Phodrang market

Shop for local crafts and fresh produce.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-2 (#64 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Ngultrum

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Dzongkha

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ema Datshi

V

Chili and cheese stew, national dish. (National dish)

Kewa Datshi

V

Potatoes and cheese, creamy dish.

Shakam Paa

Pork cooked with dried chilies.

Jasha Maru

Chicken cooked with spices and herbs.

Phaksha Paa

Pork with radish and spices.

Phrases to learn

English

Dzongkha

Hello

Kuzuzangpo

(Koo-zoo-zang-po)

Yes/No

Ing / Ma ing

(Ing / Ma ing)

Thank you

Kaadinchey la

(Kah-deen-chay la)

Excuse me

Gongpa tang

(Gong-pah tang)

How much?

Gadem chi?

(Gah-dem chee)