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Pho Chhu

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Pho Chhu

Pho Chhu River

The Pho Chhu is one of the primary rivers in Bhutan. It originates in the Gasa region near the Tibetan border and flows south toward Punakha. Travelers visit this river primarily to see the confluence where it meets the Mo Chhu river below the Punakha Dzong, creating a distinct meeting point of two different water currents.

Getting There

The river runs through the Punakha valley. Access from the city center is typically via local taxi or private vehicle. Travel time varies depending on the specific access point along the riverbank, but generally takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Duration of Visit

Depending on whether you are visiting a specific bank or walking along the confluence, allow 1 to 2 hours to observe the river and the surrounding landscape.

When to Visit

The river is accessible year-round. Visiting during the spring or autumn provides stable weather conditions. It is advisable to visit during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Nearby Attractions

The river is located near several key sites in the Punakha valley. You can combine a visit here with the following locations:

  • Punakha Suspension Bridge: 10.6km
  • Punakha Cantilever Bridge: 11.3km
  • Punakha Dzong: 11.4km
  • Mo Chhu: 11.7km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Pho Chhu

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Pho Chhu Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Punakha Suspension Bridge

Views & landmarks

Punakha Suspension Bridge

This long suspension bridge spans the river running through Punakha and is colorfully decorated with prayer flags. It's a great spot to enjoy valley views while crossing.

10.6 km away

Punakha Cantilever Bridge

Views & landmarks

Punakha Cantilever Bridge

A roofed wooden bridge spanning the Mo Chhu River to Punakha Dzong, notable for its distinctive cantilever structure. It also holds deep religious significance, used when monks move to their winter residence or during festival processions.

11.3 km away

Punakha Dzong

Temples & religious sites

Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong serves as the administrative center of Bhutan's Punakha region. Built in 1637, it is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and houses sacred relics of the Drukpa Kagyu tradition.

11.4 km away

Mo Chhu

Nature

Mo Chhu

A river flowing through Punakha, Bhutan, originating in the mountains along the Tibetan border and running south. Just below where it meets the Pho Chhu River stands Punakha Dzong, set against beautiful scenery.

11.7 km away

Sankosh River

Nature

Sankosh River

A river that rises in northern Bhutan and flows into the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India; the section near Wangdue Phodrang is also known as the Puna Tsang Chhu.

11.7 km away

Talo Monastery

Temples & religious sites

Talo Monastery

A three-story Buddhist monastery perched on a hill near Punakha, 2,800 meters above sea level. Considered one of Bhutan's most sacred sites, the mountain trail leading up to it offers serene scenery along with traces of deep devotion.

15.9 km away