Bhutan trekking Tours
Bhutan Highlights & Druk Path Trek – 9 Days
Embark on an unforgettable Bhutan trekking tours experience as you traverse the serene landscapes of the Himalayas in Bhutan. This 9-day Himalayan trekking adventure will guide you along the historic Druk Path, immersing you in Bhutanese culture, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Prepare to explore ancient monasteries, engage with local villagers, and marvel at the breathtaking views that define the Himalayas in Bhutan.
Highlights Of Bhutan Trekking Tours
Experience a day-long trek to the renowned Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Immerse in the deep history of Kyichu Lhakhang, the most ancient temple of Bhutan.
Relish the panoramic vistas of the Himalayas offered by the Druk Path.
Delve into the rich past of Bhutan in Thimphu.
Discover cultural landmarks and bustling markets in Punakha.
Detailed Itinerary of Bhutan trekking Tours
Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Guided Tour
Greetings and welcome to the enchanting land of Bhutan! Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport (PBH), you’ll be warmly greeted by an assigned delegate who will escort you to your accommodation in Paro, marking the beginning of your Bhutan tour.
Once you’ve settled in, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating sites in the Paro Valley. Your journey begins with a visit to Ta Dzong, a historic watchtower that now houses the National Museum. You’ll then proceed to the 15th-century Rinphung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, or the Jangtsa Dumgtseg Lhakhang temple, celebrated for its exquisite murals – some of the finest in the kingdom.
In the afternoon, your chauffeur will guide you to Chele La Pass, standing tall at 12,467 feet (3,800 m), where you can immerse yourself in the stunning Bhutan landscape and capture memorable moments. A scenic walk from the pass will lead you to the Kila Nunnery, where you can explore its temples and chapels. If time permits, consider visiting the Dzongdrakha Lhakhang temple perched on a cliff.
As dusk falls, your chauffeur will whisk you back to your lodging in Paro, bringing an end to your day’s adventures.
Day 2: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today, your guide will lead you on a journey to Bhutan’s most iconic site—the famed Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This revered site is a pinnacle of Bhutan tiger nest destinations, offering a spiritual retreat into the heart of the country’s religious heritage.
The challenging ascent to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which can take anywhere from one to three hours, will reveal the monastery’s awe-inspiring architecture perched at an impressive Tiger’s Nest elevation. Inside, you’ll discover elaborate prayer wheels, wall hangings, and statues representing significant Buddhist figures. For those looking to venture further, the secluded monasteries of Zangdopelri and Ugyen Tshomo await uphill, offering a more intimate glimpse into the spiritual life of Tiger Nest in Bhutan.
After completing your exploration of the temple complex, you’ll return to the Paro Valley to visit Bhutan’s most ancient temple, Kyichu Lhakhang, not far from the iconic Taktsang Monastery.
Day 3: Start Druk Path – Trek to Jele Dzong
Once you’ve had your morning meal, the chauffeur will be ready to take you to the starting point of your journey, located near the National Museum. Here, you’ll convene with your guide and prepare your hiking equipment for the upcoming adventure.
The initial segment of your Bhutan trekking tour is a challenging one, spanning approximately 4 miles (7 km) and consisting mostly of uphill paths. You’ll navigate through the quaint Damchena village, pass apple orchards, and traverse through pine forested landscapes. After trekking for about 4-5 hours, you’ll reach a picturesque meadow, where you’ll pitch your camp at an elevation of 11,482 feet (3500 m), offering a breathtaking view and an unforgettable camping experience.
Day 4: Trek to Jimilang Tsho Lake
Following your morning meal, you are scheduled to explore the deserted Jele Dzong, a Buddhist monastery housing a Buddha Sakyamuni sculpture, before embarking on a trek along the ridge.
The trek stretches approximately 12 miles (20 km), making it one of the more extensive journeys, estimated to last around 7 hours. Throughout the journey, you will be treated to spectacular views of the Jomolhari Mountain and experience an all-encompassing panorama at Langye Ja La (also known as Ox Hump Pass), which stands tall at an altitude of 13,000 feet (4070 m).
Concluding the day is a challenging, rocky descent that leads you to the tranquil Jimilang Tsho Lake. This serene location is where you’ll pitch your camp for the night.
Day 5: Trek to Phajoding
Today’s journey, lasting approximately seven hours, will take you on a steady ascent to a height of 13,451 feet (4,150 m). Your path will weave through enchanting forests of rhododendron, leading you to the midpoint of your expedition at Simkota Tsho Lake – an ideal spot for a bit of reprieve.
As you continue your journey, you will encounter quaint settlements of yak herders. The final stretch of your trek offers stunning vistas of Mount Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s tallest peak. Your day concludes at a campsite nestled near the serene Phajoding Monastery.
Day 6: Trek to Thimphu – Brief Urban Exploration
Post breakfast, you will have the opportunity to explore the Phajoding Monastery and an adjoining temple complex before embarking on your last 6-mile hike towards the location of your private transfer. After approximately three hours of hiking, you’ll be seated in your vehicle, ready to begin the leisurely journey back to your lodging in Thimphu, with a possible detour to the iconic Thimphu Dzong.
You’ll be able to indulge in a warm shower and take a breather ahead of your afternoon activities. The itinerary includes guided tours of the magnificent Tashicho Dzong and the Memorial Chorten.
To conclude the day, you’ll have the pleasure of witnessing the sunset from the Buddha Dordenma – a massive golden statue of Buddha that provides stunning vistas of the valley beneath.
Day 7: Transfer to Punakha
Once you’ve had your morning meal, your tour guide will collect you from your accommodation and commence a 3-hour journey to the nearby location of Punakha. As part of your Bhutan trip, your travel itinerary includes passing through the Dochula Pass, and given clear skies, you will be treated to the magnificent panorama of the eastern Himalayas.
Upon reaching Punakha, you’ll be assisted in checking into your hotel and served lunch before venturing out to the picturesque Punakha Valley. Soon after, you’ll traverse one of Bhutan’s numerous iron hang bridges, initiating your brief yet intense trek to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chöten. This stupa, constructed in 2004, serves as a protective barrier against negative energies for Bhutan and offers a glimpse into the spiritual essence of the Haa Valley. The interiors are adorned with breathtaking murals, and the rooftop offers unparalleled views of the valley.
Your journey continues with a hike through terraced rice fields and along riverbanks until you reach another hang bridge. Here, your vehicle will be ready to transport you to the grand Punakha Dzong. This architectural marvel stands at the meeting point of two rivers.
As dusk settles in, you have the option to immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in the evening prayer ritual at the neighborhood Buddhist nunnery, a practice intertwined with Bhutan festivals, investigate the bustling local marketplace, or return to your hotel for some leisure time.
Day 8: Temple Exploration – Proceed to Paro
As dawn breaks, embark on a leisurely trek towards Chimi Lhakhang, the renowned temple of fertility that pays homage to the ‘divine madman’ of Buddhism, Drukpa Kinley, a figure deeply revered in Buddhism Bhutan. Post your exploration, you will board your exclusive vehicle and relish yet another picturesque journey back to Dochula Pass.
From this point, set off on a two-hour walk amidst lush woods full of birch, hemlock, and rhododendron trees, leading you to the quaint Lungchutse Goemba temple. Situated 1,600 feet (500 meters) above Dochula Pass atop a hill, it provides a vantage point for even more breathtaking vistas among the floating clouds. Given a clear sky, you can savor a peaceful picnic lunch on the hilltop, reminiscent of the tranquility found at Bhutan’s textile museum settings.
If your spirit seeks further adventure, descend for an hour to another sanctuary and spiritual center: Trashigang Goemba.
As dusk falls, your vehicle will be ready to whisk you away to your lodgings in Paro.
Day 9: Departure
The moment has arrived to bid farewell to the serene Bhutan! Post your morning meal and a last session of embracing the calm, your guide will be responsible for your transportation back to Paro International Airport, ensuring all bhutan visa procedures are handled smoothly and you are on time for your homeward bound flight.
To know more about Bhutan trekking Tours, please contact us +00919818885102 or do write is info@castleandking.com