Punakha Suspension Bridge.

Draped in colorful prayer flags that flutter in the mountain breeze, the Punakha Suspension Bridge is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and longest pedestrian crossings. Spanning roughly 180 meters across the rushing Po Chhu River, this historic steel-and-wood structure connects Punakha Dzong with the traditional farming villages on the east bank. While its origins are tied to the legendary 17th-century bridge-builder Thangtong Gyalpo, today the bridge remains a vital, working link for local residents carrying crops and supplies. Walking across offers a thrilling, slightly swaying journey high above the water, rewarded with panoramic views of the river valley and surrounding hills. It is a rare spot where a daily commute doubles as a spectacular, atmospheric scenic walk.