Chukha lies along the southwestern fringes of Bhutan along the Indian border. This is a connecting district between the mountains and the plains of India and therefore, is one of the major trade gateways for the country. The Wangchhu River cuts through its valley to feed dense forests and small villages downstream, as well as the country’s first hydropower plant. Here at Chuka, experience a landscape that blends rolling hills with rushing water and scattered monasteries.

Chuka brings a mix of progress and tradition. Find monks walking to prayer halls while workers maintain massive hydropower turbines. The district produces much of Bhutan’s electricity and exports it to India. But life here is surprisingly calm.

Best time to visit

Plan your trip to Chukha in the months of spring or autumn for the best mountain views. March to May brings greenery all around, while September to November brings in that crisp, pre-winter air.

Monsoon months are great too, but waterfalls and occasional rain make the road slippery. Winters are cool and quiet. Best if you want to avoid the crowd.

How to reach Chukha

By Air: Fly into Paro International Airport and take a cab or private vehicle to reach Chuckha. The drive takes around four to five hours. Domestic connecting flights are available from Kolkata, Guwahati, Delhi, and Bagdogra. International connectivity is available from Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Best you book a cab in advance for a more convenient experience.

By Road: Phuentsholing is the most popular border crossing for Indians. Reach Jaigaon in India’s West Bengal and complete immigration to enter Bhutan’s Phuentsholing town. From there, take the Lateral Road that runs north through Chukha. If you are coming from Thimphu, expect a three-hour drive. Government buses are also available for the route for budget travellers.

By Train: Since Bhutan lacks any type of rail infrastructure, the nearest stations are all going to be on the Indian side. Nearest ones include Hasimara and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. From either station, take a car to Jaigaon, cross into Phuentsholing, and continue by road to Chukha.

Places to visit in Chukha

Phuentsholing

The busiest border town in all of Bhutan and the district’s commercial center, Phuentsholing marks the entry into Bhutan from West Bengal, India. The Bhutan Gate marks the entry point.

Here, you can visit Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, a quiet temple in the middle of town dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Drive uphill to Karbandi Monastery for the most amazing views of the plains below.

Chukha Dzong

The Dzong sits right on a ridge above the Wangchhu River. It functions as both an administrative office and a monastery. Its whitewashed walls, carved windows, and golden roof make it a fine example of Bhutanese architecture. The Dzong also hosts the annual Chukha Tsechu that draws locals from across the district.

Chukha and Tala hydropower plants

These two are prime examples of Bhutan’s reliance on natural and clean energy. Started operation back in 1988, the Chukha Plant set the foundation for Bhutan’s hydropower success. The Tala Project later boosted capacity, producing clean energy exported to India.

Tshamdrak Goemba

This 17th century monastery stands above the Paro-Chukha valley and houses relics like a hundred ceremonial drums and a sacred stone linked to the deity Ap Chundu. The climb to the monastery is epic, taking you through dense pine forests and small farms with absolute silence and refreshing mountain air. An absolutely rewarding visit if you wish to make the trip.

Jabar Goemba

Lama Drakpa Jamtsho built this monastery in the 1600s. Five peaks surround it, each resembling a lama’s ceremonial hat. The temple houses a Phurba, or ritual dagger, believed to have flown from Tibet. Locals say it still hovers slightly above its resting place.

Things to do in Chukha

• Walk through Phuentsholing market: Visit the local markets near the Bhutan Gate. Farmers here sell red rice, chillies, and handmade crafts. The noise, colours, and smells reveal the daily pulse of the border town.
• Attend the Chukha Tsechu: Join locals as they rejoice at the annual festival held in Chukha Dzong’s courtyard. Dancers perform masked rituals that tell timeless Buddhist stories. Families gather, monks chant prayers, and the community celebrates for several days.
• Tour the hydropower plants: For a more informative experience, try taking a guided tour of the Chukha or Tala hydropower projects. You can see turbines, control rooms, and spillways up super close.
• Stay in a local homestay: Ditch the fancy hotel and spend a night with a Bhutanese family. Share meals of red rice, cheese curry, and local vegetables. Evenings here often end around a wood fire, listening to stories of the valley and its changing seasons.

Chukha captures the heart of modern Bhutan. The district shows how a notion rooted in spirituality can move forward without losing balance and connection with nature. Plan a trip to Chuka to learn the full story of Chukha. A story of progress built on faith, community, and respect for nature.