Location and setting
Set slightly away from the busy town centre, Zen Punakha enjoys a peaceful position overlooking the Punakha Valley and surrounding greenery. You’re close enough for easy drives to Punakha Dzong, the suspension bridge and riverside walks, yet far enough to enjoy evenings that feel calm and unhurried. The setting makes it especially appealing if you prefer quieter nights and fresh morning air.
Rooms and suites
Zen Punakha offers a small, thoughtfully designed selection of rooms suited to different travel styles. The Zen Suite (Duplex Suite Apartment) is ideal for longer stays, families or travellers who enjoy extra space. It features separate living and sleeping areas, along with an open kitchen and dining area, making it feel more like a serviced apartment than a standard hotel room.
Standard Twin Rooms are front-facing and work well for friends or families travelling together, while Standard Queen Rooms face the back, offering a quieter, nature-oriented outlook that couples and solo travellers often appreciate.
In-room amenities
Across all room categories, you can expect comfortable bedding, fresh linens, basic toiletries, bottled water and tea-and-coffee-making facilities. Suites include an in-room kitchen, which is particularly handy for longer stays or travellers who appreciate a little extra independence.
Dining at Zen Punakha
The Zen Restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a pleasant spot for relaxed breakfasts and unhurried dinners. The menu typically includes a mix of Bhutanese-friendly comfort dishes alongside Indian, Chinese and continental options, catering well to mixed groups and families. Ingredients are kept fresh and simple, with an emphasis on wholesome flavours rather than heavy presentation. The adjoining Zen Bar is a cosy place to enjoy a drink in the evening, whether that’s a cocktail, a glass of wine or a local beer after a full day of exploration.
Wellness and slow travel touches
For travellers who enjoy building moments of stillness into their journey, Zen Punakha offers a dedicated Yoga Shed. It’s available throughout the day for self-practice, and yoga sessions can be arranged on request. This gentle focus on wellness fits well with Punakha’s slower rhythm and makes the hotel a good choice for travellers looking to balance sightseeing with rest.
Meetings and small events
Zen Punakha also features a conference hall suitable for meetings, retreats and small group gatherings. It’s a practical option for corporate travellers or special-interest groups who want a functional venue outside Thimphu, without sacrificing comfort or tranquillity.
Who Zen Punakha is best for
Zen Punakha suits couples seeking a calm, affordable stay in Punakha, families and friends who value practical room layouts, and travellers who want to be near Khuruthang without staying right in the busiest area. It’s also well suited to small groups, wellness-focused travellers and anyone who prefers contemporary comfort over ornate décor.
Things to do nearby
Staying at Zen Punakha puts you within easy reach of Punakha’s highlights, including Punakha Dzong, the Punakha Suspension Bridge, Chimi Lhakhang (the Fertility Temple), Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and gentle riverside walks. In season, river activities such as rafting or kayaking on the Mo Chhu can also be arranged, making it easy to balance culture with light adventure.
