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Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a magnificent Buddhist stupa in Punakha, Bhutan, perched on a hill with stunning valley views. Built by Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, it was completed in 2004 to promote peace. Adorned with intricate paintings, this Bhutanese masterpiece is reached via a scenic hike through rice fields and forests, offering tranquillity and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit spiritual sanctuary.
Location
Photo: David Broad / Wikimedia Commons
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is located in the Punakha district of Bhutan, about 7 km from Punakha town. Perched atop a hill overlooking the picturesque Punakha Valley, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes. To reach the stupa, visitors must take a 30 – 45 minute uphill hike through scenic rice fields and pine forests from the suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River.
How To Reach
Photo: Doug Knuth / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten by air and road, followed by a scenic hike through Punakha’s lush rice fields:
By Air: The nearest airport is Paro International Airport, located about 125 km from Punakha.
By Road: Punakha is well-connected to Thimphu and other major towns by road. From Punakha town, visitors must travel about 7 km to the starting point near the Mo Chhu
suspension bridge.
By Rail: Bhutan has no railway system. The nearest railway station is in Hasimara, India, about 180 km from Punakha. From Hasimara, travellers can take a taxi or bus to Phuentsholing and then continue by road to Punakha.
Things To Do In Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Discover the best experiences at Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, from scenic hikes and stunning architecture to peaceful spiritual reflection:
1. Enjoy The Scenic Hike
Photo: zapCulture / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The journey begins with a picturesque hike through lush rice fields, pine forests, and gentle uphill trails. The 30 – 45 minute trek is moderate and beginner-friendly, with opportunities to pause and take in the breathtaking views of Punakha’s countryside. The trail passes over the Mo Chhu suspension bridge, adding to the adventure. Hikers often spot farmers tending their fields, adding an authentic rural touch to the experience.
2. Admire The Architecture
Photo: yohoprashant / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is an architectural masterpiece, built to promote peace and protect Bhutan from negative forces. Its intricate design follows traditional Bhutanese and Tibetan Buddhist styles, showcasing vibrant paintings, elaborate wood carvings, and golden spires. The stupa, commissioned by the Queen Mother of Bhutan, features several tiers, each symbolizing different Buddhist teachings. Inside, visitors can admire detailed frescoes, spiritual deities, and mandalas. The craftsmanship reflects Bhutan’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.
3. Experience Spiritual Serenity
Photo: David Broad / Wikimedia Commons
It is a place of deep spiritual significance, built to spread harmony and positive energy. Visitors can take part in meditation, prayers, or quiet reflection, experiencing the tranquility that Bhutanese Buddhist sites are known for. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the soft chants of monks and fluttering prayer flags, creates a spiritually uplifting environment. Many visitors say they feel a sense of calm and clarity after spending time here.
Places To Visit Near Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
You can explore stunning sites near Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, including monasteries, fortresses, bridges, and serene spiritual retreats:
1. Punakha Dzong
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Great Happiness, is Bhutan’s second-oldest and most beautiful fortress. Built in 1637 at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers, it is an architectural masterpiece featuring whitewashed walls, golden roofs, and intricately carved wooden windows. The dzong plays a crucial role in Bhutanese history and serves as the winter residence for the Je Khenpo. It houses sacred relics, murals, and statues that depict Buddhist teachings.
Best Time To Visit: March – May; September – November
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
2. Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Perched on a ridge overlooking the Punakha and Wangdue valleys, this peaceful nunnery is home to Buddhist nuns engaged in meditation and spiritual studies. The temple features a tall bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara, one of the largest in Bhutan. Visitors can witness prayer rituals, spinning prayer wheels, and serene garden spaces. The nunnery also houses beautiful statues of Guru Rinpoche, Lord Buddha, and 21 Taras. The tranquil environment and breathtaking views of the valleys below make it a great spot for meditation, spiritual learning, and quiet contemplation.
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
3. Chimi Lhakhang / Fertility Temple
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Chimi Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s most unique and revered temples, dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman”. It is particularly famous for its fertility blessings, attracting couples who seek to conceive. The temple, set on a gentle hill surrounded by green fields, features paintings and phallic symbols, reflecting the saint’s unconventional teachings. Visitors can receive blessings from a sacred wooden phallus, believed to bestow fertility and good fortune.
Best Time To Visit: March – May; September – November
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Punakha Suspension Bridge
Photo: Doug Knuth / Wikimedia Commons
Stretching 160 meters across the Pho Chhu River, the Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of the longest and most picturesque suspension bridges in Bhutan. Surrounded by lush hills and prayer flags, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the river and Punakha Valley. It is a thrilling experience for visitors, with its slight swaying motion adding a sense of adventure. The bridge connects the dzong with nearby villages, making it an integral part of the local community.
Best Time To Visit: Morning or late afternoon for great lighting
Timings: Open 24 hours
5. Talo Monastery
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn / Wikimedia Commons
Located at an altitude of 2,800 meters, Talo Monastery is known for its pristine beauty, peaceful ambiance, and stunning views of Punakha Valley. The monastery is home to monks who follow a strict meditative lifestyle. The beautifully manicured gardens, white-washed walls, and golden rooftops make it an excellent place for sightseeing and relaxation. Visitors can witness monastic ceremonies, traditional mask dances, and spiritual rituals. The annual Talo Tshechu Festival, featuring vibrant performances, is a highlight for tourists.
Best Time To Visit: March – May
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: tianya1223 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Several excellent accommodation options are available near Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten in Punakha, catering to different budgets. Dhensa Boutique Resort is a luxurious stay offering stunning valley views, spa services, and Bhutanese architecture. RKPO Green Resort provides a comfortable mid-range option with modern amenities and traditional aesthetics. Budget travellers can opt for Hotel Vara or Zhingkham Resort, which offer cozy rooms and warm hospitality. Most accommodations are located within a 10 – 15 km radius of the chorten, ensuring easy access.
Where To Eat
Photo: rapidtravelchai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Near Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, visitors can find several restaurants and cafés in Punakha town, about 7 – 10 km away. Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria is a great spot to enjoy authentic Bhutanese cuisine, including Ema Datshi and red rice. Dochula Resort Restaurant offers stunning views and a mix of Bhutanese and continental dishes. For a casual dining experience, The River Café serves delicious momos, noodles, and fresh juices. Hotel Lobesa Restaurant is another excellent choice, known for its traditional meals and warm hospitality.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: kalyanayahaluwo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Best Time To Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and ideal for hiking. In spring, the valley comes alive with blooming flowers, lush greenery, and mild temperatures, making the trek enjoyable. Autumn offers clear blue skies, stunning views of the Punakha Valley, and comfortable weather for exploration. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making the trails slippery, while winter can be quite cold, though still beautiful.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: RabenWelt / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
Visitors to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten should note that it is open daily from 9 AM – 12PM and 1:30 PM – 5 PM. There is no entry fee to visit the chorten, but travellers may need to hire a guide, which can cost around BTN 500 – 1,000 / ₹500 – 1,000. The hike to the chorten is free, though some tour packages include it in broader Punakha sightseeing tours. A budget trip, including transportation, food, and accommodation, may cost around BTN 3,000 – 5,000 / ₹3,000 – 5,000 per person per day, while a luxury experience can go beyond BTN 10,000 / ₹10,000 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- Visiting in the morning ensures cooler weather, fewer crowds, and stunning valley views under clear skies.
- Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and follow Buddhist traditions at the stupa.
- A local guide can provide insights into the stupa’s spiritual significance and Bhutanese culture.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a spiritual retreat offering peace, stunning views, and Bhutanese culture. The scenic hike adds adventure, while its location overlooking Punakha Valley showcases Buddhist traditions and craftsmanship. A visit with TripXL ensures serenity and admiration for Bhutan’s heritage, making it an unforgettable destination for cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
Cover Photo: David Broad / Wikimedia Commons
