Welcome to Ritsha Village

Ritsha is a picturesque village in Punakha, Bhessen, known for its lush paddy fields and traditional architecture. To immerse yourself in the charm of Bhutanese rural life, here’s how you can reach Ritsha from various starting points.

Traveling to Ritsha, Punakha

By Air

International Arrival

Paro International Airport (PBH) is the primary gateway to Bhutann for international travelers. Upon landing at Paro Airport, you'll have to travel overland to reach Ritsha, Punakha.

Domestic Flights

While there are no direct flights to Punakha, domestic flights within Bhutan can get you closer. You may fly into Yonphula Airport (YON) in the east, Bumthang Airport (BUT) in the central region, or Gelephu Airport (GLU) in the south.

By Road

The most common mode of transportation within Bhutan is by road. Ritsha in Punakha can be reached via car or bus from Paro, Thimphu, or other towns.

From Paro

It's a beautiful drive of approximately 125 kilometers from Paro to Punakha that will take about 4 hours. You will pass through the capital city of Thimphu and over the Dochula Pass, where you can view the stunning Himalayan range.

From Thimphu

From Thimphu, Punakha is approximately 75 kilometers away and the drive should take about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions.

Bus Services

There are regular bus services from Thimphu to Punakha. Once in Punakha, you can hire a taxi to Ritsha village or arrange for your hotel to pick you up.

By Trek

For the adventure enthusiasts, trekking options may be available to reach Ritsha. It is, however, important to plan ahead and hire a local guide for the best experience.

Useful Tips

• Owing to the mountainous terrain, travel times can be longer due to road conditions and weather.
• All foreign travelers must have a Bhutanese visa and a travel plan arranged by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners.
• Carry local currency – Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) for convenience, although Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in Bhutan.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Be prepared for the altitude, as some visitors may experience altitude sickness.

Final Note

Remember, while Bhutan is a welcoming country, it does take measures to conserve its culture and environment. Respect local customs and regulations during your stay. Have a wonderful journey to Ritsha, Punakha!