Khuruthang

Khuruthang is totally devoid of charm and is a monument to brutish concrete architecture. However, as the town is the final destination of shared taxis from Thimphu, independent travelers heading to the much pleasanter Punakha Valley and its famous dzong generally have to pass through here.

There is a constant flow of shared taxis from Thimphu, which cost around nu300 and take around 90 minutes.

• Khuruthang Lhakhang (temple) is located just below the taxi rank. It is modern and lacks the interesting nooks and crannies of Bhutan's older temples, though it is certainly worth a visit.

• There are several nondescript eateries near the taxi rank serving typical Bhutanese dishes.

• Punakha and Punakha Dzong are a few kilometres from Kurutahang. There are frequent taxis plying the route.