Epic Trans Bhutan Trek

Epic Trans Bhutan Trek

Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu

Epic Trans Bhutan Trek 12 days ultimate bucket-list adventure covers from west to central Bhutan. Most parts of the trails are handpicked and designed to suit your needs in comfortable ways. The epic trans Bhutan trek which is for over 35 days program and stretches from West to East covers over 400 historic sites, 9 districts, 28 gewogs and 1 national park. Let us make history.

Day 01: Arrival at Paro to Haa (2 hrs)
Fly on the wings of the Dragon to the heart of Himalayas at Paro, the only International Airport in Bhutan. After the immigration formalities, exit through single arrival gate where Heavenly Bhutan dedicated team will receive you. You will see the person holding the placard on the booking name or in the name of the company. Settle down in the comfortable car and proceed to Haa, one of the smallest Dzongkhag in the country. This tiny region is one of the most beautiful and isolated areas in the kingdom, adorned with pristine alpine forests and tranquil mountain peaks. There are many typical Bhutanese home stays and hikes/walks available besides having renowned temples. Chelela Pass at 3988m: Highest motor-able road pass connecting two districts Paro and Haa, an elevation of 3988m above the sea level. On clear days, one can enjoy view of the most sacred Mt. Jomolhari (7314m). The pass is dotted with beautiful prayer flags and offers amazing walks around, worth a visit while in Bhutan. You can also plan to ride mountain biking from Pass to Paro valley with the stretch of 36-48km, mostly downhill and easy ride. Visit Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo if time permits. Overnight in hotel in Haa, altitude 2700m

Day 02: Haa to Paro (Trek Distance: 17 kilometres (10.57 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 8 hours | Elevation Gain: 1,169 metres (3,835 feet) | Starting Elevation: 2,801 metres (9,190 feet) | Ending Elevation: 2,380 metres (7,809 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 3,790 metres (12,435 feet))
After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Katsho, where you will begin your first day of trekking on the ancient Trans Bhutan Trail. For generations, the people of Haa followed the route you will walk today to trade with the Parops in the neighbouring valley. There, they would barter 20 drey (approximately 30 kilograms or 66 pounds) of Shakam (dried meat) for 20 drey of rice at Paro Tshongdu (market) because the harsher climatic conditions in Haa are unsuitable for rice cultivation. The age-old trail follows the beautiful Haa river as it gently rises out of the Katsho Valley, passing through yak pastures before heading into forests of pine and rhododendron. As you traverse the Katsho Valley, look out for cliff-edge Bjungneydra Taktsang (monastery), also known as “The Mini Taktsang”, and the sky burial site of Kungkarpo. The Trail continues to climb until it reaches the pass at Kaleyla, where it crosses the ridge trail between Chelela and Sagala. At Kaleyla, you will enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range to the north, including on the clearest days vistas of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m/23,996ft), Mount Jichudrakegang (6,794m/22,290ft) and Mount Tsherimgang (6,789m/22,273ft). You will be provided with a picnic lunch during this stop. From Kaleyla, the trail descends through rhododendron and bamboo forest into the Paro Valley. The last few kilometres to Paro will then be on tracks which meander through traditional Bhutanese farming villages. On arrival in the Ngopa gewog of Paro you will have the chance to visit Kyichu Lhakhang: Temple considered sacred Jewel of Bhutan was established by the Buddhist King Songstsen Gampo of Tibet to overcome the giant ogress that laid across Tibet and Himalayas preventing the spread of Buddhism. The king is believed to have built the temple at the left foot of the enormous ogress. Kyichu Lhakhang was among 12 temples in Bhutan out of 108 temples said to have been constructed over single night. Kyichu Lhakhang was initially small in size however later, the temple expanded both in grandeur and size to its form that we see today. Overnight in hotel in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 03: Paro Sightseeing
This picturesque region in the kingdom is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley. Paro has more of historical sites, high-end tourist resort and many souvenir shops for shopping including world famous Takstang. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger Nest Temple): is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious Buddhist site in the world. The name Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Bhutan which clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley. Although good trekkers can make it to the top in two hours, most of the guests take whole day to complete the hike. Hot stone bath with dinner at the farmhouse: Hot stone bath is very unique to Bhutan and offers great medicinal values. In most cases, the bathtub is made of wood placed on a ground level in quite hut for the privacy. A couple can get into one bathtub to soak. Enjoy the great ancient techniques of curing body ache, joins pain and harness many other values. This is on additional cost check with guide/driver. Overnight in hotel in Paro

Day 04: Paro to Tsalunang (Trek Distance: 14.2 kilometres (9.94 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 6 hours | Elevation Gain: 886 metres (2,907 feet) | Starting Elevation: 2,826 metres (9,272 feet) | Ending Elevation: 2,774 metres (9,101 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 3,546 metres (11,634 feet))
After breakfast today, rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail heading east towards Tsalunang. Today’s trek begins with a climb from Upper Dopshari through community reforestation projects, small farming villages, into deep forest and along pristine rivers. You may well find the perfect spot to hoist some lungdhar (prayer flags) on your way. After a picnic lunch at Jelila, you may wish to make the small detour to visit Jela Dzong (fortress). Built on the site where Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel is said to have encountered the protective deity Pal Yeshey Goenpo on his pilgrimage to Paro, its main relics are the statues of Du Sum Sangye (Buddha of the Past, Present and the Future). It is believed that the Buddha once faced northwards but then miraculously turned itself to face southwest towards Paro. From Jelila, the Trail drops gently down into the Tsalunang Valley, passing through forests of blue pine and rhododendron on its way. Bird watching enthusiasts will want to keep an eye out for some of Bhutan’s beautiful species on this section. Overnight in Camp

Day 05: Tsalunang to Thimphu (Trek Distance: 19.2 kilometres (11.93 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 8 hours | Elevation Gain: 1,285 metres (4,216 feet) | Starting Elevation: 2,774 metres (9,101 feet) | Ending Elevation: 2,659 metres (8,724 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 3,934 metres (12,907 feet))
After breakfast at camp, continue your hike east towards Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu. With elevations ranging between 2,248 metres (7,375 feet) and 2,648 metres (8,688 feet) above sea level, Thimphu is the fifth highest capital city in the world by altitude. It is also the only capital city in the world without any traffic lights. The city offers a unique blend of the modern world with Bhutanese tradition. From Tsalunang, the Trail climbs through forests of fir, blue pine, dwarf rhododendron and through yak pastures before it reaches the pass at Pumola. Herders from Punakha would once bring their cattle here over the summer to escape the heat of the lower-lying Punakha valley. After enjoying a picnic lunch and excellent mountain views at Pumola, rejoin the Trail as it meanders down through picturesque meadows, offering stunning views of the Thimphu Valley from the long ridge thereafter. From here, you will be able to make out your route for the next few days in the distance beyond Thimphu. Towards the end of the day, you will arrive at Buddha Point, home to Thimphu’s most recognized landmark, the Buddha Dordenma. Visit Buddha viewpoint: The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in Kuensel phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. Check in to your hotel before heading out for dinner with your guide at one of the many excellent restaurants in the capital. Overnight in hotel in Thimphu, altitude 2400m

Day 06: Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu– This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights. Folk Heritage Museum: This museum was established in 2001 and provides visitors with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life, especially the life of Bhutanese in remote parts of Bhutan. Textile Museum: The National Textile Museum which opened in June 2001, is worth a leisurely visit to get to know the living national art of weaving. Changing exhibitions introduce the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by women and men. The small shop features work from the renowned weaving centers in Lhuntshe Dzongkhag, in north-eastern Bhutan. Each item is leveled with the name of the weaver and price. The textile museum’s exhibition are centered around six major themes – warp pattern weaves, weft pattern weaves, role of textiles in religion, achievements in textile arts, textiles from indigenous fibres and the royal collection. Drive pass by Memorial: It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day. The National Memorial Chorten was built in memory of Late Third King of Bhutan and dedicated to World Peace. Third King is regarded as father of modern Bhutan. Visit interesting weekend market: An interesting well organized permanent set of stalls built for vegetable vendors across the country. It’s open from Wednesday to Monday and closed on Tuesdays. One can find wide range of local vegetables and fruits. Witness ongoing live archery matches in Changlimithang: Archery is the national game of Bhutan, it is amazing to see Bhutanese archers hitting target from a distance of 145 meters range. Bhutan has top archers on some categories on Olympic Games. Overnight in hotel in Thimphu

Day 07: Thimphu to Dochula (Trek Distance: 26.2 kilometres (16.28 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 9 hours | Elevation Gain: 1,466 metres (4,810 feet) | Starting Elevation: 2,659 metres (8,724 feet) | Ending Elevation: 3,114 metres (10,217 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 3,174 metres (10,414 feet))
After breakfast at your hotel, head back to Buddha Dordenma to rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail. Before the National Highway was built, the section of the trail which you will follow today would have been a busy thoroughfare connecting Thimphu with Punakha and, beyond it, the east. From here, you will descend via the Debsi Valley. After crossing the river on the motor road bridge, you will follow the old east-west highway through the town of Babesa, until you reach Simtokha Dzong (fortress). Simtokha Dzong: The name Simtokha literally means “Atop a Demon” and the legend associated with the dzong’s construction tells us that it was built in order to subdue an evil spirit that was harassing travelers in the region. The dzong was modeled after the Gyal Gyad Tshel Institute of Ralung (Tibet) and is quite distinctive as its Utse or central tower has 12 sides. From Simtokha, the Trail continues to rise steadily as it traverses orchards, strawberry fields, and market gardens. At Hongtsho, the Trail then branches off into dense forest and across meadows. You will enjoy a stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot en route. Eventually, the trail will reach the Dochula Pass at 3,100 metres (10,200 feet) above sea level. Dochula pass: The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass. While at Dochula you may visit the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple), built in honour of His Majesty the Fourth King Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck and to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Bhutanese Monarchy. The paintings in this temple are unique insofar as they combine modern flourishes with century-old techniques. The Temple hosts a yearly tshechu (festival) which pays tribute to the wise leadership of His Majesty the King and the ongoing efforts of the Royal Bhutanese Army in protecting Bhutan’s sovereignty. You should also visit the Druk Wangyal Chorten (stupa), also known as the ‘108 Chortens’, and its nearby meditation caves. Overnight in hotel or tent

Day 08: Dochula – Thinleygang – Punakha (Trek Distance: 10.5 kilometres (6.52 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 5 hours | Elevation Gain: 50 metres (164 feet) | Starting Elevation: 3,100 metres (8,700 feet) | Ending Elevation: Ending Elevation: 1,560 metres (5,100 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 3,100 metres (8,700 feet))
Dochula Pass offers one of the most spectacular sunrises anywhere in Bhutan and so we recommend rising early this morning. At clearer times of the year, you enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan range in the distance as the sun rises. After breakfast, head down into the adjacent valley and join a section of the Trail known as the ‘Divine Madman Trail’. You are now following in the footsteps of the Divine Madman himself, Drukpa Kuenley, when he came to Bhutan from Tibet in the 16th century to fulfil his destiny of suppressing evil energies. Over the coming days, you will come across a number of important cultural sites and extraordinary stories related to the life of Drukpa Kuenley. Make a stop at Thinleygang Lhakhang (temple). After lunch, rejoin your vehicle and head east towards Punakha. Punakha Dzong: Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands inbetween meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan. Visit Punakha Suspension Bridge: Punakha suspension bridge is considered one of the longest of its kind in Bhutan. The bridge connects the dzong with the villages Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha on the other bank of the Po Chhu river. In these small villages, locals sell their wares in tiny, traditional shops. Visitors can stop here for a quick and authentic view of true Bhutan. In order to access the suspension bridge from the dzong, one must walk past the King’s palace and the cremation ground. Overnight in hotel in Punakha, altitude 1350m

Day 09: Punakha to Lingmukha (Trek Distance: 12.5 kilometres (7.61 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 7 hours | Elevation Gain: 1,123 metres (3,685 feet) | Starting Elevation: 1,225 metres (4,019 feet) | Ending Elevation: 2,144 metres (7,034 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 2,190 metres (7,185 feet))
After breakfast at your hotel, rejoin the Trail, this time heading east towards Lingmukha. Initially, the Trail winds through paddy fields and then climbs relatively steeply until reaching a chorten (stupa) which marks the highest point on today’s hike. Enjoy a picnic lunch and scenic views of the valleys to the north here.
After lunch, the trail descends down into the pretty Lingmukha valley, with the last hour or so of today’s hike being along the feeder road. The valley is commonly referred to as Lingmup Sher gi Zhom, which translates as “the golden bowl”, on account of the many rice fields which lie beneath ridges to either side. Here, you will visit the Lingmukha Lhakhang (temple), built by the great discoverer of treasure Terton Dorjee Lingpa. Oral tradition has it that Dorjee Lingpa arrived in Lingmukha in the 14th century, built the Lhakhang and then settled there along with his disciples. The Great Master is said to have discovered many ters (treasures) in the village. Overnight in Camp

Day 10: Lingmukha to Samtengang to Phobjikha (Trek Distance: 17.2 kilometres (10.69 miles) | Estimated Trek Duration: 8 hours | Elevation Gain: 1,286 metres (4,219 feet) | Starting Elevation: 2,144 metres (7,034 feet) | Ending Elevation: 1,952 metres (6,405 feet) | Maximum Elevation: 2,535 metres (8,317 feet))
After breakfast at camp, rejoin the Trail heading east towards Samtengang. Historically, this section of the Trail would have often been used by natives of Lingmukha and the people of Phangyul in the adjacent valley. Although the two villages are separated by a steep ridge, they strongly believe themselves to be close blood relatives who share the same cultural roots.
The Trail rises from deep in the Lingmukha Valley, climbing steeply through dense forest until it reaches a rest stop built at a pass. From the pass, you will descend sharply, enjoying panoramic views of the Shar Valleys. Stop on the way to visit the Chungse Azhe Gyalzom Lhakhang (temple), which is built on the place where a Chan-do (a small, disc-like stone), thrown by the Divine Madman, Lam Drukpa Kuenley from Sha Kuenzangling on the other side of the valley, is said to have landed. Nearby, in the small village of Chungseykha, you will enjoy a hot lunch served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, the Trail will pass by small farming villages perched on steep slopes as it climbs towards Samtengang. At Samtegang, rejoin your vehicle and head east towards Phobjikha. The road to Phobjikha passes us through the black mountain region into Gangtey. The drive also passes through some of the most beautiful forests, water fall, hills, river and villages and lawala pass before stepping into Phobjikha. Enjoy the most scenic and adventurous drive today with HBT. Visit Gangtey Gompa: The temple built over hill top, headed by Gangtey Tulku the reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. Annual festival of Gangtey is performed in the temple courtyard every year. This is also the place for black necked crane’s festival held every year on 11-Nov, coinciding with His Majesty’s Fourth King’s Birthday. Overnight in hotel in Phobjikha, altitude 2900m

Day 11: Phobjikha to Paro (5 hrs drive)
As we say good bye to the Asian Switzerland, we will retrace the journey back to Thimphu crossing over lawala, Wangdue, Dochula, up until Chuzom and further to Paro. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of the Himalayas. Gangtey Nature Trail: It is a short and relatively easy trek with several beautiful villages and monasteries en route. It offers beautiful views of the country with mostly gentle, forested slopes. The best time for this trek is between September-May, walk not recommended on rainy days. Visit 17th century Paro Dzong: ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’, is ranked one of the best Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, particularly when landing at Paro Airport. The Dzong also offers administrative seat of the district of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Enjoy outdoor activities wearing Gho/Kira, play archery: Nicely made and well maintained activity place attached to whole sell Buddha statue store, offers wearing Bhutanese dress, playing archery and darts for guests visiting Bhutan. The center is maintained and operated by HBT herself and its free of cost for all HBT guests. Explore the tiny town: Tiny Paro town actually can offer lot more, there are many authentic handicraft shops, readily available Bhutan made products, grocery and imported garment shops beside having many small restaurants around. Overnight in hotel in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 12: End of the tour
Departure from Bhutan

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