Important Information

Region
Bhutan Tour
Duration
11 Days
Max Altitude 3400m
Best Season March - November
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 2
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Flight - Car

Bumthang is actually the name of district or Dzongkhag which consists of four major valleys such as Ura, Chumey, Tang, and Choekhor. It is also known as Jakar. Because of its wide coverage, it is rich in history, spiritual, and vegetation legacy that locates between the elevations of 2,600 meters to 4,500 meters. Bumthang is a cultural and spiritual heartland, home to ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples. In 746 AD Guru Rinpoche visited Bhutan with the sole purpose of flourishing Tibetan Buddhism. Guru Rinpoche and his disciples discover the religious treasures in these sacred valleys of Bumthang. Since that time the establishment of temples and monasteries became popular and Buddhist religion came to practice in Bhutan.

Bumthang Cultural Trek is three days trek and the rest is an overland tour that offers you an opportunity to explore the hidden natural beauties, sacred monasteries and temples, lifestyle of people, and Swiss farm. This trip also covers other popular landmarks of Bhutan like Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey (Phobjikha), Punakha, and Wangdue. We had mentioned everything in the detailed itinerary regarding what is included in this trip. Please go through it if you are interested to know more. 

We understand that you have your own unique reason to travel to Bhutan. If this itinerary doesn’t meet your time, interest, and looking for customized trips. Himalayan Wander Walkers strive to create a perfect tour program by serving amazing travel experiences and the best planning advice.

Outline Itinerary ( 11 Days )

Day 1

Arrival to Paro (2200m) and Drive to Thimphu (2320m).

Landing to Paro will offer you one of the best views of the Himalayas including Everest. On your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers's representative. Our Guide and driver will help you to arrange your luggage in the vehicle and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. On the way you will visit three different sites; Tamchog Lhakhang which is built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet, Memorial Chorten, and Kuenselcholing View Point. In the evening relax for the day and stroll around Thimphu city.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 2

Sightseeing in Thimphu.

After your breakfast, you will hike to Cheri Monastery which was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620 and the first monk body was established. It will take about an hour to and fro. The hike en route to the Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary, a chance to see different birds and raw deer.  After the hike, you will drive to Buddha Dordhenma, one of the world's largest statues of Shakyamuni Buddha (54m/177 ft) which is dedicated to world peace. If you are lucky enough then you will experience the weekend market which held only three days a week; Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Your today’s last tour will be Tashicho Dzong, the largest landmark in Thimphu that home to the Royal Bhutanese Government offices. On the way to Tashicho Dzong, you will visit the Bhutanese Craft Bazaar or market. Here you will find varieties of products with the touch of Bhutanese traditional design. The souvenirs from this market will cherish your Bhutan travel memories in the future.   

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 3

Drive from Thimphu to Trongsa(2200m) via Dochu la (3100m) Pele La (3420m)

Today you will drive to Trongsa after your breakfast. The road passes over the Dochu la and Pele La which will offer you magnificent views of the Himalayas. On the way, you will visit Druk Wangyal Chorten (108 stupas) and Chendebji Chorten. Before your arrival at the Trongsa hotel, you will see the Trongsa Dzong from the car. Trongsa is the home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty’s ancestors.  

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 4

Drive from Trongsa to Jakar, Bumthang (2800m).

After your breakfast, you will visit the Trongsa Dzong which is the largest Dzong in Bhutan. In Trongsa Dzong, you will also visit the museum where the collection of Bhutan Royal family artifacts. Then drive to Bumthang which takes about 2 and a half hours, the heartland of the spiritual. After your lunch at Jakar, you will visit Jakar Dzong, Tamshing temple (one of the most sacred Lkakhang), and 7th centuries old Jambay temple.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 5

Trek from Toktu Zampa (2,620 m) to Ngang Lhakhang (2,800 m)

Hiking Distance:  12 km

Walking hours:  4-5 hours

Ascent: 170m

Descent: Nil

The trail goes along the Chhugor Chu, a river familiar with the trout. After your pleasant hike in the forest reaches Thangbi Lhakhang for lunch. After lunch, you will trek to Ngang Yul, the land of swans. It was once occupied flocks of swans. And finally, you will reach your camp next to Ngang  Lhakhang.

Overnight accommodation at tented camp. (Meal: B, L & D)

Day 6

Trek from Ngang Lhakhang (2,800 m) to Tahung (2,920 m)

Hiking Distance: 16 km

Walking hours: 6 hours

Ascent: 750 meters

Descent: 670 meters

Today the trek starts from the Draphe Dzong, the ruin of strategic fort in the past years. The trail climbs up through the bushes and bamboo forest. In between, you will walk on the treeless grassland which eases to views of the blue sky. Continue to ascend Phephe la which is marked by a stone cairn and praying flags at 3360 meters height. Then the descending from the pass via rich vegetation will lead to a Yak pasture. The camp will be ready overnight just behind the village of Tahung which is the best among other available campsites.

Overnight accommodation at tented camp. (Meal: B, L & D)

Day 7

Tahung (2,920 m) - Mesithang (2,600 m)

Hiking Distance: 16 km  

Walking hours: 4-5 hours  

Ascent: Nil

Descent: 230 meters

Today you will trek toward the south along the Tang Chu river, another river popular for trout on the way to Tang Rimochen Lhakhang.  After half, an hour of walk from the Mebar Tsho (the burning lake) will reach Tang Ogyencholing, the only museum own by a private family. You will see some of the Bhutanese artifacts. Later hike to the main road where your driver is waiting for you.  

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 8

Drive to Punakha (1350m)

Today you will visit different places within the Bumthang valley. In the morning you will visit Swiss Farm where you will explore the procedures of brewing Red Panda beer (only native beer), sweet cheese, apple brandy, and other local dairy products. This project was first established by Fritz Maurer. Yoser Lham Shop is the main outlet for the Swiss Farm. Then drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival enjoy a stroll through the Punakha Township.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 9

Sightseeing in Punakha and drive to Paro.

Today you will hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of fertility). It was built by the Divine Madman who is originally known for Lama Drukpa Kunley in 1499. The hike is about 30 minutes en route to the rice field. On the route, you will find wooden phalluses hanging in local houses and paintings on the wall of the house. This site is especially popular for the childless couple who come to pray for a child. Then drive to Punakha Dzong. Punakha Dzong is located between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. It is the second-largest dzong of Bhutan and built-in remarkable structure. Later drive to Paro.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 10

Hike to Taktsang and visit the farmhouse.

Today we will hike to the most important landmark of Bhutan. After your breakfast, your guide and driver will receive you from your hotel and drive to the hiking point. The hike will be about 5 hours both way up and down. Those who are difficulty with walking can hire a horse to ease your hike. Taktsang or Tiger Nest was beautifully lying on the edge of the rocky mountain which was burned by fire in 1998 and restored later. This is also a popular pilgrimage site of Guru Rinpoche (Tantric Master).  You can hire a horse also if it’s challenging to hike up. Later you will drive to Paro and invite for dinner at the farmhouse to experience the local dishes which are served and prepared by Paro farmers. This will provide you an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of a farming family. A hot stone bath is an optional element for those who want to experience the traditional bath.

Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.

Day 11

Dept from Paro airport

Our team is saying goodbye as your journey to Bhutan comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 2 hours before your scheduled flight guide from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful countries of Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet.

*AP (American plan) = Meal includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

 

Include

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Thimphu and Paro.
2 nights in tented camp
Meals: All breakfasts, Lunches, and Dinners
Airport transfers on by private vehicle
Professional English speaking guide and necessary transportation.
All park entrance fees, trekking permits, and taxes
All Government Royalties
Transportation during the trek.
Sightseeing and site entry fees as listed

Exclude

International flights
Personal travel insurance, trekking gears.
Aerated & alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
Tips for guide and helpers.
Luxury hotels/resorts available on supplement cost
Specialized /language guides available on supplement cost
Travel / Medical Insurance

Important Information

* The Price given here is per person based on a minimum of 2 pax. The price will be cheaper with an increase in the number of people.

* If you are flying from Nepal then let us know we can help you to book your flight to Bhutan.

* Single Room Supplement is an extra charge.

Equipment

What to Bring for Trek?

Although trekking gear is available in Bhutan you are advised to bring your own gear.

  • Footwear
  • Trekking or running shoes
  • Camp shoes or thongs
  • Socks (polypropylene)
  • Clothing
  • Down or fiber-filled jacket
  • Jumper or piled jacket
  • Hiking shorts
  • Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella
  • Hiking pants
  • T-shirts or blouses
  • Underwear
  • Sun hat

Other equipment

  • Rucksack
  • Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional, “normal” mats provided by Bhutanese tour operators)
  • Water bottle
  • Torch, batteries, and bulbs

Useful Information

CHECKLISTS

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Bhutan. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will work in Bhutan.)
  • Guiding, Food, and Camping

In Bhutan, all trekking supplies - camping equipment, kitchen implements, food - are all carried by pack animals. Porters are rather unusual in Bhutan with loads usually carted by horses or, in higher regions, yaks. All trekkers are accompanied by a guide, a cook, and usually at least one horseman or yak herder. With the surest footing; they lead trekking groups across the passes. The horseman and cook will usually run ahead during a trekking day. They will have prepared a packed lunch for hikers and will go on to the night’s resting place to set up camp.

They set up tents, cook dinner, and ready the area for arriving trekkers. When trekkers reach the campsite they are greeted with a hot cup of tea and biscuits in the dining tent. After six hours in the mountains, no drink will ever taste sweeter. For dinner, the cook will usually prepare a buffet of dishes that are as welcome as they are delicious.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING FORTRESSES, MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN BHUTAN

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

 

Frequently Asked Question