Above the upper Punakha valley, a white chorten crowned with gold stands on a ridge among the rice terraces. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is a modern monument, built under the patronage of a Queen Mother of Bhutan and consecrated around the end of the 1990s, for the wellbeing of the country.
The walk is the reason to come. You cross a footbridge over the Mo Chhu and climb a path through terraces, usually around 30 to 45 minutes up. Inside are vivid modern paintings, and the rooftop looks straight down the valley.
Top things to do at Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Hike up through the terraces
Go early or late in the day, when it is cooler. The path is steady rather than hard, but there is little shade.
Climb to the rooftop
Steps inside lead up through the levels of the chorten to a viewing level over the valley.
Photograph the fields
The terraces are bright green in the summer growing season and golden near harvest.
How to get to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
- Your driver takes you up the valley from Punakha to the trailhead near the footbridge. Allow half a day including the drive.
Insider tips
- Bring water and a hat.
- Wear shoes with grip, since the path can be slippery after rain.
- Check opening with your guide, as religious sites can close for ceremonies.
Tours that suit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
These real listings are the closest match for Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Check each itinerary:
Multi-day tour from $787 Bhutan 6 Days Tour to Thimphu, Paro and Punakha
Six days is the length we suggest for most first visits: enough for Paro, Thimphu and an unhurried stay in Punakha. Confirm on the listing what the price covers.
- Six days across the three classic valleys
- Time for Punakha without racing back
- Listed by GetYourGuide under Punakha
Private multi-day tour from $1150 6 Days Bhutan Tour - Gangtey
Adds the high Phobjikha valley to the classic route, a good fit if you want landscape as well as dzongs, especially in crane season.
- Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Gangtey
- Adds the Phobjikha valley
- Tiger’s Nest near the end of the trip
Multi-day tour Bhutan: 7-Day Tour with Tiger’s Nest & Meals All Inclusive
A week gives the pace Bhutan rewards. Read the day-by-day plan to confirm how long you get in Punakha, and whether the SDF and visa are in the price.
- A slower week in western Bhutan
- Tiger’s Nest hike included in the itinerary
- Listed as including meals
