it is one of the most beautiful valleys in bhutan. it served as the capital of bhutan until 1955. however it is still the winter seat of the je khempo (chief abbot) & the monk body. it is relatively warmer as compared to other places in bhutan. it is one of very few places in bhutan which offers rafting facilities. it lies at an elevation of 1,310 m. the low altitude of the punakha valley allows two rice crops a year, and oranges and bananas are in abundance.