Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten

Perched majestically on a ridge above the fertile Punakha Valley, the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and spiritually significant stupas. Built with intricate detail and deep spiritual intent, this sacred monument is a must-visit for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural richness.

Reaching the chorten requires a pleasant 45-minute to 1 hour uphill hike through lush rice paddies, pine forests, and rural farmland. Along the way, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Mo Chhu river, Punakha Valley, and distant Himalayan peaks. Prayer flags flutter in the breeze, adding a peaceful charm to the journey.

At the top, the brilliant golden spire of the chorten rises against the sky, surrounded by 360-degree views of Punakha’s breathtaking landscape. Visitors can enter the chorten to explore three levels filled with elaborate paintings and statues of wrathful and protective deities.