Bumthang Cultural Trek

Fly from Kathmandu to Paro which takes about 1.45 hrs. It is one of the most spectacular of all mountain flights with aerial views of Mt. Everest, Kanchen Junga, Makalu and other peaks in Bhutan such as Chomolhari, Jichu Drakey and Tsrim Khang. You will be received by our representative at the airport and escorted to the hotel.

Overnight in hotel. 

Morning hike up to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest) takes around 3 hours. It was in the 8th century that Guru Padmasambava landed here on the back of a tigress, and meditated for three months. The present day monastery was built it 1684. Afternoon visit to Ta-dzong, once a watchtower to defend Paro. This dzong was converted into the National Museum in 1967, and is filled with antique thanka paintings, textiles, weapons and armour. Drive to 17th century Rinpung dzong to defend the valley against Tibetan invaders.

Overnight in hotel.

This morning follow the winding road beside the Pa chu (chu means water) river downstream until you reach its confluence with the Wangchu. Ride up the valley to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. After lunch visit the Memorial Chhorten, Traditional Medicine Hospital, and Painting School.

Overnight in hotel.

Early morning drive to Bumthang via Dochula pass. From here on a clear day you can have a superb view of the highest peaks in Bhutan, such as the Gangkar Puensum, Table mountain, Jeje Khang and Masakhang Gangchey ta. After lunch drive on to Bumthang via Pele la pass (3,150m).

Overnight in hotel. 

Today the trek begins from Toktu Zampa. The route follows the Chamkhar Chu river. Stop for lunch at Thangbi Lhakhang and continue trek through the Ngang Yul (Land of the Swan) and Ngang Lhakhang (Swan Temple). Ngang Yul in Bhutanese language means swan.

Overnight in camp. 

The day starts out across meadows followed by a gradual climb to Phephe La (3,360m), the highest point of the trek route. The trail passes through beautiful forested areas where many stops can be made to enjoy the natural beauty of the place. The path leads you downhill into a broad valley near the village of Tahung.

Overnight in camp.

The trail ahead follows the Tang Chu river past Tang Rimpoche’s Lhakhang. The trek will pass the Mebar Tsho (Flaming Lake) and lead you to Tang Ugyen Choling. Ugyen Choling Palace houses one of the most interesting museums of Bhutan. From here you will soon reach the road head. Drive to Bumthang.

Overnight in hotel.

Drive to Thimphu. Free time in the afternoon to relax or take a shopping tour.

Overnight in hotel. 

Morning sightseeing in Thimphu. Later drive to Paro.

Overnight in hotel. 

Drive to Paro airport to catch flight back home.