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TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL
ITINERARY
- DESCRIPTION
- TREKKING CHECKLIST
- ITINERARY
- INCLUSION
- EXCLUSION
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime in the breathtaking kingdom of Bhutan by taking on the epic Trans Bhutan Trail. This awe-inspiring journey isn’t just a hike; it’s a life-changing experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Covering 403 kilometers from the pristine town of Haa in the west to the charming enclave of Trashigang in the east, this trail is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most remarkable treks.
As you traverse this incredible landscape, you’ll encounter an array of historical and religious sites, each steeped in Bhutan’s rich culture and heritage. Picture yourself standing in the shadow of ancient monasteries, exploring hidden temples, and connecting with the spiritual heart of this mystical land. It’s an experience that transcends the ordinary and immerses you in a world of profound significance.
But the Trans Bhutan Trail offers more than just spiritual enrichment. It’s a journey through diverse climate zones, showcasing Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty in all its glory. You’ll witness the transition from lush green valleys to snow-capped peaks, from dense forests to alpine meadows. It’s a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and a photographer’s dream come true.
To make this adventure even more unforgettable, rest days are thoughtfully incorporated into the itinerary. In Punakha and Bumthang, you’ll have the opportunity to unwind, soak in the local culture, and recharge for the next leg of your journey. These rest days allow you to explore the rich traditions and warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the country’s unique way of life.
In conclusion, the Trans Bhutan Trail is more than just a trek; it’s an odyssey through the heart and soul of Bhutan. It’s an opportunity to push your physical limits, expand your cultural horizons, and connect with the very essence of this extraordinary kingdom. So, if you’re seeking the ultimate trekking experience, look no further. Challenge yourself, discover the wonder of Bhutan, and be forever transformed by this incredible adventure.
Camping in extreme weather such as cold temperatures and snowy conditions can be expected and extremely enjoyable, Camping on the snow can be peaceful, picturesque and an out door adventure. All the accommodation while on Trek is twin sharing, double occupancy. Single occupancy in tents can be arranged on demand at an additional charge. All tents are Cold Weather Tents and designed for harsh weather and snowy conditions. Separate tents will be pitched for dinning, kitchen and rest room. On demand, a luxury camping facilities will be provided like bed and mattresses, warm shower tents, rest room with proper toilet pots, fishing equipment etc.
- Trekking Boots (broken in) & Camp Footwear (light shoes/sandles/trainers)
- Waterproof jacket, Down Jacket & Thermal inner wear
- Trekking trouser/pants & Shorts
- Gloves, Sunglass & Torch
- Sun hat, Woolen hat, neck warmer
- Sunscreen, Sanitizer & Trail mix
Daypack – The daypack you select must have the capacity for the items you may be carrying on a day’s walk: rain jacket, trousers, warm clothing, water bottle, camera equipment, washing items and other personal effects. A hip/waist strap provides additional comfort. You should consider daypacks of at least a 30 to 40-litre capacity. Horses will be carrying the rest of your luggage.
Day 1 – PARO to HAA
Welcome to the enchanting Paro International Airport, where your adventure begins. As you step off the plane, our dedicated guide will warmly greet you. The journey takes a thrilling turn as you embark on a private vehicle ride towards the picturesque town of Haa. En route, we’ll pause at the breathtaking Chelela Pass, a towering mountain vantage point at a staggering 3,810 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level, proudly claiming the title of the highest paved road in Bhutan. As you reach this lofty summit, why not join your guide and driver in a spirited ‘lha-geh lu!’ cry, invoking the favor of the Gods?
For dinner, your guide will introduce you to a local restaurant in Haa, offering the perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of Bhutanese cuisine, your first taste of the culinary wonders awaiting you.
Day 2 – HAA
After a sumptuous breakfast, join your guide for an invigorating acclimatization walk around the charming town of Haa. Your exploration will lead you to the Lhakhang Karpo, fondly known as the ‘White Chapel,’ located just south of Haa’s impressive dzong (fortress). This sacred site hosts an atmospheric central chapel adorned with statues of the Tse-la-nam Sum trinity. During your visit, you’ll have the option to partake in a traditional pre-expedition blessing, a heartfelt preparation for the adventures that await along the Trans Bhutan Trail.
In the afternoon, you’re free to relax or embark on gentle acclimatization walks with your trusty guide. The day is yours to savor at your own pace.
Day 3 – KATSHO to NGOPA
Following a hearty breakfast at your cozy hotel, the journey continues as you’re whisked away to Katsho, the gateway to your first day of trekking on the ancient Trans Bhutan Trail. For generations, the resilient people of Haa traversed this very path, connecting with the neighboring Parops in their valley for trade. The age-old trail traces the meandering course of the Haa river, leading you through pastoral yak pastures and enchanting forests of pine and rhododendron. Along the way, be on the lookout for the cliff-edge wonder of Bjungneydra Taktsang, often referred to as “The Mini Taktsang,” and the sky burial site of Kungkarpo.
As you journey further, the trail ascends, treating you to awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan range, including the majestic peaks of Mount Jhomolhari, Mount Jichudrakey, and Mount Tsherimgang. A picnic lunch awaits at Kaleyla, the pass where you can soak in these grand vistas. Descending through rhododendron and bamboo forests, you’ll finally reach the Paro Valley, meandering through quintessential Bhutanese farming villages to reach Paro itself.
Day 4 – NGOPA to DAMCHENANG
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast before rejoining the Trans Bhutan Trail, this time heading east. The trail takes you gently upward from Lamgong Village, leading you through the lush rice paddies of the Paro Valley. Winding around the northern ridge, the trail descends into the traditional village of Dopshari, where you’re in for a delightful treat – a cookery demonstration and a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse. Post-lunch, dive into the heart of Bhutan’s heritage by trying your hand at the national sport of archery and indulging in a quick game of traditional ‘khuru’ (darts).
Following this cultural immersion, you’ll take to the trail once more for a final ascent to Upper Dopshari, where you’ll conclude your hike with breathtaking views over the Paro Valley. Retreat to your cozy hotel, where relaxation and unwinding are highly recommended.
Day 5 – DAMCHENANG to TSALUNANG
Rise and shine with a hearty breakfast, as you rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail, setting your sights on Tsalunang in the east. Today’s trek unfolds with a climb from Upper Dopshari, leading you through community reforestation projects, quaint farming villages, serene forests, and pristine rivers. Along your path, you might find the perfect spot to hoist some lungdhar (prayer flags), adding a touch of spirituality to your journey.
At Jelila Pass, pause for a picturesque picnic lunch, and if time permits, consider a small detour to visit Jela Dzong, a fortress with a fascinating history. The fortress is said to be the site where Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel encountered the protective deity Pal Yeshey Goenpo on his pilgrimage to Paro. Its main relics are the statues of Du Sum Sangye, symbolizing the Buddha of the Past, Present, and the Future. According to local legend, the statue miraculously turned itself to face southwest towards Paro, adding an extra layer of mystique to your journey.
DAY 6 – TSALUNANG – BUDDHA DORDENMA
Wake up in the heart of Bhutan’s breathtaking wilderness and savor a delicious breakfast at your camp. Today, embark on a remarkable journey to the capital city, Thimphu. As you ascend through lush forests, yak pastures, and charming meadows, you’ll reach the magnificent Pumola Pass, the highest point on the Trans Bhutan Trail, offering awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Your path then leads you through picturesque landscapes, unveiling captivating views of the Thimphu Valley on your descent.
Your day culminates at Buddha Point, home to the iconic Buddha Dordenma, a 167-foot gilded bronze statue adorned with 125,000 miniature statues. This awe-inspiring monument was created to honor the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, on his 60th birthday. Check into your cozy hotel and enjoy an exquisite dinner at one of the many charming restaurants in Thimphu.
DAY 7 – BUDDHA DORDENMA – HONGTSHO
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel before returning to the mesmerizing Buddha Dordenma. Follow the Trans Bhutan Trail as it traces the historical path connecting Thimphu with Punakha. You’ll meander through Debsi Valley, passing the ancient Simtokha Dzong, a fortress dating back to 1629, with its fascinating murals, carvings, and tapestries. The journey continues through orchards, strawberry fields, and market gardens, leading you to Hongtsho, where you’ll conclude your day’s hike. A comfortable vehicle awaits to transport you back to your hotel for a restful evening.
DAY 8 – HONGTSHO – THINLEYGANG
Embrace the day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel and return to Hongtsho to explore the dense forests, meadows, and the captivating Dochula Pass. At 10,200 feet above sea level, Dochula Pass is a sacred place in Bhutan, perfect for witnessing breathtaking sunrises and hanging colorful prayer flags as a sign of respect to the Gods. Visit the Druk Wangyal Chorten, also known as the ‘108 Chortens,’ and its nearby meditation caves. Afterward, venture into the footsteps of the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kuenley, and discover the cultural treasures and extraordinary stories of his life.
DAY 9 – THINLEYGANG – PUNAKHA DZONG
After a delectable breakfast, journey towards Toeb Chandana, where you’ll explore the sacred Chandana Lhakhang, known as ‘where the arrow landed.’ Legend has it that the temple was constructed to ward off a demoness and has a unique connection to the prophecy of Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman. Marvel at the fascinating story and history of this place as you continue your ascent towards Sew Drangsa, with picturesque views of the Punakha Valley. The day concludes with a visit to the spectacular Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, which guards Bhutan’s treasured relic, the Rangjung Kharsapani.
DAY 10 – PUNAKHA
Relish a day of relaxation in the charming town of Punakha, beginning with a visit to Punakha Dzong. Cross the Bazam (bridge) in traditional Bhutanese attire, and explore this majestic fortress that has endured centuries of history, including fires, floods, and invasions. Discover the hidden treasures and rich history that lies within this remarkable structure, which also serves as the winter residence for the monastic body.
DAY 11 – PUNAKHA DZONG – LINGMUKHA
Kickstart your day with a satisfying breakfast, followed by a scenic hike eastward towards Lingmukha. Ascend through paddy fields and a steep climb to a stupa marking the day’s highest point. Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the panoramic views of the valleys. Traverse the picturesque Lingmukha valley and visit the Lingmukha Lhakhang, a temple with a rich history of treasure discovery by Terton Dorjee Lingpa. Embrace the local culture and enjoy a delightful dinner prepared with organic, locally-sourced produce at your camp.
DAY 12 – LINGMUKHA – SAMTENGANG
Start your day with a camp breakfast before setting out towards Samtengang. Explore the relationship between the people of Lingmukha and Phangyul as you journey through the meadows, forests, and serene landscapes. Witness the unique cultural ties that bind these villages as you visit important cultural sites and experience the heartwarming stories of Drukpa Kuenley.
DAY 13 – SAMTENGANG – RAZAWO
Savor a camp breakfast before embarking on a historically significant section of the trail. Walk in the footsteps of famous messengers and chamberlains as you traverse an isolated section of the trail, connecting with nature and enjoying the tranquility of the journey. Discover the chorten at Razawo, believed to be one of the oldest in Bhutan, with its own unique story.
DAY 14 – RAZAWO – LONGTEY
After a hearty camp breakfast, follow the trail along the river, accompanied by the stories of historical figures like Garp Lunghi Khorlo and Chamberlin Pemi Tshewang Tashi. Experience the serenity of nature as you journey through this remote section of the trail, away from human settlements. Along the way, climb to the Pelela Pass, offering panoramic views and the opportunity to explore local crafts.
DAY 15 – LONGTEY – CHENDEBJI
Commence the day with a camp breakfast and continue your adventure on the Trans Bhutan Trail. Descend through meadows and keep an eye out for remote yak herder camps. Delight in a traditional farmhouse lunch in Rukubji, where you can explore the unique local language and enjoy a cultural exchange with the villagers. Resume your journey through forests and visit the Chorten at Chendebji, a significant landmark believed to bring peace to the valley.
Day 16 – Chendebji to Tshangkha
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at your cozy camp, surrounded by the serenity of Chendebji. As you step out, you’ll embark on an enchanting journey along the old East-West National Highway, briefly tracing Bhutan’s historical routes.
Your path then leads you deep into the countryside, with Tangsibji village as your destination. Here, you’ll experience the warm hospitality of a local farmhouse, where a hearty and flavorsome lunch will be served.
Amidst the lush landscape, the trail weaves its way through the sites of Bhutan’s innovative hydroelectric projects, a testament to the nation’s commitment to a carbon-negative status. Witness the future of clean energy while surrounded by pristine natural beauty.
You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Trashichoeling Lhakhang, a temple with a rich history, built as a tribute to Bhutan’s beloved Fourth King.
As you continue your journey to Tshangkha, consider a visit to the sacred Tshangkha Lhakhang. This temple stands on land believed to have been blessed by ancient wisdom, making it a vital center for spiritual and community gatherings.
Day 17 – Tshangkha to Kewathang
After a fulfilling breakfast, set out for an exhilarating day of trekking. The trail begins with a steep climb out of Tshangkha, passing by significant landmarks like Ugyen Choling and Tsangkha Sheydra.
As you approach Trongsa, the geographical heart of Bhutan, you’ll retrace the steps of the Bhutanese Royal Family. The mesmerizing descent into Trongsa offers breathtaking views of the Trongsa Dzong, a living testament to Bhutan’s royal heritage.
After a local restaurant lunch, delve into the heart of Trongsa Dzong, a fortress with a profound history. Discover the secrets and spirituality that this unique edifice holds and head back on the trail for a gentle ascent towards Kewathang, marking the end of a memorable day of trekking.
Day 18 – Kewathang to Geytsa
Break your fast at your comfortable hotel and bid adieu to Trongsa as you resume your trail adventure. Today’s journey will guide you through a series of ecological zones, a paradise for birdwatchers.
Passing through dense forests, the trail eventually leads to Yotongla Pass, where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch while surrounded by natural beauty.
Descending from Yotongla, your path will take you through meadows and open forests, ultimately meeting the Geytsa River. The day’s last leg is a pleasant riverside walk towards Geytsa, with a visit to the historical Chuchi Lhakhang en route. This temple is said to be one of the 108 temples constructed by the great King Songsten Gampo, adding a touch of mystique to your journey.
Day 19 – Geytsa to Jakar
Kick-start your day with a hearty breakfast and embark on a historic section of the trail once used by the Bhutanese Royal Family. The path leads you through pine forests toward the Kikila Pass, offering mesmerizing views of the Bumthang Valley and the majestic Jakar Dzong along the way.
Experience the charm of Jakar as you head down gently into the Bumthang Valley. Witness the grandeur of Jakar Dzong, a historical masterpiece, and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the region.
Day 20 – Jakar to Phomdrong
As the sun rises, savor a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel and journey eastward through the charming town of Chamkhar. Marvel at the splendid Lhodrak Karchu Dratsang monastery and continue to climb up to Badhala, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views.
Explore the monastery, a spiritual haven founded by a lineage of Tibetan lamas with roots tracing back to the great Buddhist Guru Padmasambhava. Witness its grand assembly hall, adorned with statues and terraces offering panoramic views of Chhokhor Valley and Jakar Dzong.
The trail then descends as you approach Babzur village and continue toward the Pema Choling Nunnery. This unique establishment houses women and girls who follow a nine-year course in the Nyingma Peling Buddhist tradition, known for their distinctive “chod” drum ceremony.
After your nunnery visit, follow the trail south toward the sacred Mebartsho, known as the Burning Lake. This mystical site is where the great treasure hunter Pema Lingpa unearthed hidden treasures of Guru Rinpoche. His extraordinary feats in these waters, including holding a lit butter lamp underwater, have given this pool its intriguing name.
Day 21 – Jakar
Today, the pace slows down as you indulge in a well-deserved day of rest in the enchanting town of Bumthang. Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Jakar Dzong, known as the ‘Castle of the White Bird.’ Explore this historical fortress, adorned with a 50-meter utse (tower) and an intricate sheltered passage. Learn about its role as Eastern Bhutan’s main defensive stronghold and its connection to the First King of Bhutan.
Next, uncover the secrets of Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, believed to be built by the 7th-century Tibetan king Songsten Gampo. Witness the vibrant Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival, featuring captivating dances and ancient traditions performed by local villagers.
Continue your journey into the valley, passing through farmlands, and reach Kurjey Lhakhang. This temple complex consists of three temples, with the middle one being the most sacred, built on the site of a cave that holds the imprint of Guru Rinpoche’s body. Enjoy the serene beauty of this spiritual hub before returning to your place of rest.
Day 22 – Phomdrong to Ura
Greet the day with a wholesome breakfast at your hotel and prepare to leave the beautiful Phomdrong behind. Your trail begins by retracing the old East-West highway briefly, then ventures into rolling countryside with picturesque fields of buckwheat.
A picnic lunch near Tangsibi village provides the perfect pause before embarking on a switchback climb to the Sheytangla Chorten, offering breathtaking views of the Ura valley. Your descent into the valley towards Ura is a visual delight.
Day 23 – Ura to Gayzamchu
After a nourishing breakfast, pay a visit to Ura Lhakhang, a temple built in 1982 that houses a two-story Guru statue. Local legends suggest that a human-sized copper Guru within the temple played a role in saving the valley from a leprosy outbreak in the past.
Continue your trek through the picturesque Ura Valley, ascending towards the Wangthangla Pass. This challenging section of the trail leads through the Phrumsengla National Park, a nature reserve filled with rich biodiversity, including red pandas, tigers, and rare bird species.
As you journey through this pristine wilderness, enjoy a picnic lunch and then descend towards Gayzamchu, where you will spend the night in the lap of nature.
Day 24 – Gayzamchu to Sengor
Rise and shine for another day of adventure in Bhutan’s wilderness. After breakfast at camp, hit the trail for a challenging climb through the Phrumsengla National Park, leading you toward the Thrimshingla Pass. As you ascend, keep your eyes peeled for the elusive red panda, a rare and treasured sighting.
The day’s journey takes you through rhododendron forests, and you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of the Phangphangla waterfall in the distance. Your path leads you past herders’ camps and offers stunning valley views as you make your way to Sengor, a place where nature’s beauty is truly captivating.
Day 25 – Sengor to Latongla
Fuel up with a satisfying breakfast at your camp and return to the trail, beginning your descent into the Sengor valley. Along the way, make a stop at the Sengor Lhakhang, a temple believed to be centuries old, with mystical origins linked to Patseling Trulku Drubtob Namgyel Lhundrub.
Today’s trek will treat you to varying vegetation and a glimpse of Bhutan’s diverse natural beauty. As you walk, the echoes of a time when traders, pilgrims, and messengers traversed this route will resonate through sections of the descent, marked by dry-stone staircases.
The trail also guides you through the enchanting ruins of Zhongar Dzong, a fortress believed to have met its demise due to a curse, adding a layer of intrigue to your journey.
Day 26 – Latongla to Lingmithang
With breakfast at your camp to start the day, venture onto the trail as it leads you on a steep descent through dense forest. Anticipate a vertical descent of approximately 2 kilometers over a 10-kilometer stretch, where you’ll notice the climate becoming noticeably warmer.
Along your path, you’ll pass through the mystical ruins of Zhongar Dzong, a place touched by history and myth, where fire and a curse play roles in its demise.
As you journey, the trail will also take you close to the enchanting sound of the Phangphangla waterfall in the distance, offering a true sense of Bhutan’s natural diversity and beauty.
Day 27 – Lingmithang to Mongar
Begin the day with breakfast at your camp and set out for your final day of trekking on the Trans Bhutan Trail. You’ve covered nearly 404 kilometers since your journey began in Haa, marking this day as a testament to your remarkable adventure.
From the Jarong Khashor Stupa at Gongthung, descend through charming villages, eventually reaching Chazam, a bridge across the Dangmechhu River that leads to Trashigang. Throughout your journey, the captivating view of Trashigang Dzong in the distance will be a constant companion.
Explore Trashigang Dzong, your final destination, and check into your hotel. This impressive fortress, built in 1659, stands atop a ledge, surrounded by steep cliffs. Local stories suggest that even the sight of this Dzong could send the Tibetan army retreating in fear as they reached the river’s banks.
Day 28 – Mongar to Korila
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, and set out eastward from Mongar toward Ngatshang. Today’s journey involves a climb toward the Korila Pass, with visits to the villages of Wengkhar and Themdangbi along the way.
At Korila, you’ll pause for a picnic lunch at a sacred site known as Wadipa Nye. Here, a statue of Guru Rinpoche commemorates the spot where a cow herder witnessed Guru meditating in the 7th century, offering him milk. An annual festival at this location adds an element of spiritual significance, with locals placing their hands under a rock, believed to bring prosperity if found holding animal fur.
Day 29 – Korila to Sherizampa
After a satisfying breakfast at your hotel, rejoin the trail as it descends toward Ngatshang. On arrival, pay a visit to the Jarong Khasor Stupa, where some locals believe a bend in the stupa’s first base floor was caused by the spiritual impurities of the dead body of the Trashigang Dzongpon.
Pushing further eastward, you’ll descend through sub-tropical forests until you reach the village of Sherizampa, a place where culture and nature blend harmoniously.
Day 30 – Sherizampa to Drametse
As the sun rises, savor a delicious breakfast at your camp and continue your trail journey. Cross the old suspension bridge and follow the trail as it climbs back up through forests of pine and lemongrass, offering breathtaking views along ridges.
Stop at Baginla for a leisurely lunch, and then continue the ascent until you reach Drametse. Make a short detour to visit the Drametse Lhakhang, a temple founded in the 16th century by Ani Cheten Zangmo. Her journey to this site, seeking refuge from an unwanted marriage proposal, led to the temple’s name, “the peak without enemies.” Drametse is considered the main seat of Terton Pema Lingpa’s lineage and a vital religious and cultural center for eastern Bhutan.
Day 31 – Drametse to Gongthung
After breakfast with your hosts, set out on the trail as it descends steeply from Drametse, past the village of Bazur. Here, you’ll visit the Bazur Lhakhang, a temple that was once used to store royal grain supplies and later transformed into a temple.
From Bazur, the trail leads you up a steep ridge before reaching Narang, where you’ll stop for lunch. Continue along the trail, taking you down through the village toward Durung, a place on the boundary between the Mongar and Trashigang districts. Cross the river and visit the community temple of Dongnga Choeling, a unique and culturally significant site. From there, the trail continues upward toward Gongthung.
Day 32 – Gongthung to Trashigang
With breakfast at camp, embark on the Trans Bhutan Trail for your last day of trekking, a journey that has covered nearly 404 kilometers since your starting point in Haa. From the Jarong Khashor Stupa at Gongthung, the trail descends through numerous small villages to Chazam, a bridge that crosses the Dangmechhu River and leads into Trashigang.
All along the way, you’ll enjoy fine views of Trashigang Dzong, the final stop on this incredible journey from west to east. Check into your hotel and then head out to visit the Trashigang Dzong, a fortress built in 1659 that overlooks the Dangme and Gamri rivers. The stories surrounding this Dzong speak of its power, with tales of the Tibetan army retreating in fear as they reached the river’s banks upon seeing it.
Day 33 – Trashigang to Paro
After breakfast at your hotel, head to the nearby Yonphula airport for your domestic flight back to Paro.
Upon arrival in Paro, your adventure continues as you visit Ta Dzong, originally built in 1649 as a watchtower to protect Paro Dzong from the Tibetan military. Today, Ta Dzong serves as Bhutan’s National Museum, housing exhibitions that showcase the nation’s magical past through sculpture, painting, and artifacts.
Your journey takes you to the stunning Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress built in the 15th century and restored to its present glory in 1951 by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It is an architectural marvel with its fifty-meter utse (tower) and a sheltered passage with two parallel walls, fortified towers, and a connection to a river water source.
After these cultural explorations, you’ll have leisure time at your hotel to relax and reflect on your epic journey through Bhutan.
Day 34 – Tiger’s Nest
After a hearty breakfast, set out on a private vehicle to the northwest of Paro, heading to the iconic Taktshang Goemba, more commonly known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest Monastery.’ This stunning structure precariously clings to a sheer cliff face, 900 meters (2,950 feet) above the Paro Valley floor. The Tiger’s Nest is the most famous religious building in Bhutan, built at the site where Guru Rinpoche is said to have arrived on the back of a tigress to subdue the local demon, Singye Samdrup. Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave here for three months after subduing the demon.
Access to the Monastery is only on foot via a 2- to 3-hour hike up the valley side. The trek offers breathtaking views from the ridge, and you’ll pass a small chorten, a basic monastery, and a waterfall on the way. When you reach the Tiger’s Nest, you can visit the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, explore the network of Lhakhangs (chapels) housing images, murals, chortens, and a holy spring. As you descend back to the access road, consider making a detour to visit the attractive Machig-phu Lhakhang.
Day 35 – Depart Paro
After a final breakfast in Bhutan, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international departure flight. Your incredible journey through the heart of Bhutan, from west to east, has come to an end, leaving you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting kingdom’s natural beauty and rich culture. Farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, until we meet again!
- All Trekking Meal during the Trek
- One Trekking Expeditions Leader
- Horsemen as per the group size
- Helper as per the group size
- Group Medical Kit
- Good Quality accommodation throughout. The use of a world expedition trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, and insulated mat
- All Park entrance Fees and Trekking Permits
- Horses to carry 20 Kgs personal equipment
- International Airfare
- Alcohol
- Tips/gratuities
- Cost arising out of Flight Cancellation/road blockades/ landslides and events beyond our control
- Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost
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This tour covers all of the major tourist destinations in the Western part of Bhutan. It starts and ends in Paro .