Just north of Punakha, the trail to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten begins at the Punakha Suspension Bridge, where prayer flags flutter above the Mo Chhu River. It's a 45-minute uphill walk from the parking lot, covering 3 km (1.8 miles) through terraced fields and quiet forests.

The air cools quickly at 1,800 meters (5,903 feet) above sea level. The path winds through pine groves and blooming landscapes dotted with Bodhi trees, Orozyalum, Japanese pine, Kashmir cypress, flowering Jacarandas, Banana trees, Guava, and edible orchids. Colourful birds call from the canopy, while the distant sound of river water adds to the peaceful rhythm of the walk.

The chorten itself rises gracefully from the hilltop, surrounded by 108 stupas. Built between 1994 and 1999 under the vision of Queen Mother Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, it was constructed entirely by Bhutanese hands, including artisans and prisoners, under the spiritual guidance of Lam Kuenzang Wangdi (also known as Lam Nyeku). Its name reflects the Buddhist elements of form, formlessness, and the victory of desire.

From the top, panoramic views stretch across the Punakha Valley to distant Himalayan peaks. Monks, pilgrims, and villagers gather here to pray and reflect. For many, the hike becomes more than a scenic walk, a moment of quiet connection where landscape and spirit move in harmony.