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Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to Punakha

Updated: March 14, 2024 09:40 AM
Punakha

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to Punakha - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Language

The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and is the medium of instruction in schools.

Currency

The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). It is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR) at a rate of 1 BTN = 1 INR.

Distance

The distance between Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary and Punakha is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Punakha from Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary:

  • By car: The drive takes about 4 hours and costs around BTN 2,500 (INR 2,500).
  • By bus: There are no direct buses from Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to Punakha. You will need to take a bus to Thimphu and then transfer to another bus to Punakha. The journey takes about 6 hours and costs around BTN 500 (INR 500).
  • By taxi: A taxi from Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to Punakha costs around BTN 3,500 (INR 3,500).

Expenses

The following are approximate expenses for a trip from Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to Punakha:

  • Accommodation: BTN 500-1,500 (INR 500-1,500) per night
  • Food: BTN 200-500 (INR 200-500) per day
  • Transportation: BTN 2,500-3,500 (INR 2,500-3,500) for a car or taxi
  • Activities: BTN 500-1,500 (INR 500-1,500) per activity

Best time to go

The best time to visit Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary and Punakha is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). The weather is pleasant during these months and the scenery is at its best.

What to Eat

There are a variety of Bhutanese dishes that you can try in Punakha, including:

  • Ema datshi: A spicy stew made with chilies, cheese, and tomatoes
  • Kewa datshi: A mild stew made with potatoes, cheese, and mushrooms
  • Phaksha paa: A stir-fry made with pork and chilies
  • Zow shungo: A soup made with beef or pork and bamboo shoots

Where to Go

There are several places that you can visit in Punakha, including:

  • Punakha Dzong: A large monastery and fortress that is the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the spiritual leader of Bhutan
  • Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A beautiful chorten (stupa) that is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Punakha Valley
  • Dochula Pass: A mountain pass that offers stunning views of the Himalayas
  • Phobjikha Valley: A glacial valley that is home to the endangered black-necked cranes

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Bhutan?

Yes, you need a visa to travel to Bhutan. You can apply for a visa online or through your local Bhutanese embassy or consulate.

What is the cost of a visa to Bhutan?

The cost of a visa to Bhutan is USD 40 for a single-entry visa and USD 80 for a multiple-entry visa.

What are the prohibited items in Bhutan?

The following items are prohibited in Bhutan:

  • Tobacco products
  • Alcohol
  • Narcotics
  • Weapons
  • Explosives
  • Pornography
  • Religious materials that are offensive to Buddhism

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

Trips from Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary


Trips to Punakha