Bhutan Treks
Bumthang Cultural Trek
Outline Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Paro International Airport
During the flight, one will experience breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Mount Chomolhari and Jitchu Drake in Bhutan.
On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received and escorted to your hotel by the representatives of Rainbow Tours and Treks.
Day 2 Paro - Sightseeing
Morning: Drive to Drugyal Dzong (a ruined fortress - 16 kms away from Paro town). The Dzong, although in ruins, holds great historical significance. It was from this fortress that the Bhutanese repelled many Tibetan invasions. The name means "The Victorious Bhutanese." This spot unfolds a magnificent vista of Mount Chotnolhari, "Mountain of Goddess" (Alt. 7329 mtrs). Visit a typical Bhutanese farm house on the way back.
Day 3 Paro - Thimphu
Drive along the winding road alongside the Paro Chu (Chu means water or river) to the confluence with the Wang Chu, then follow the Wang Chu to Thimphu, the Capital. Lunch will be served at the Hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten, dedicated to the Late Third King. Overnight in Hotel.
Day 4 Thimphu - Sightseeing
Visit Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Royal Government, and the summer residence of the Head Abbot and the monk body. Wander through the town, visit shops and the Handicrafts Emporium, where Bhutanese textiles and other handicrafts are available. Visit the workshop where the handicrafts are made. Visit the painting and woodcrafts schools where traditional painting and other arts are kept alive. Visit the National Library and see the ancient manuscripts preserved there. Visit Simtokha Dzong (6 kms. from Thimphu), the oldest fortress built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1629 A.D.. The Simtokha Dzong also houses the largest monastic school in the country.
Evening :
Day 5 Thimphu - Trongsa
The journey to central Bhutan begins today. The drive to Trongsa takes about 7-8 hours from Thimphu. Pack lunch stop at Chendebji Chorten.
Overnight at Hotel in Trongsa.
Day 6 Trongsa -Jakar (Bumthang
) Drive for 2 1/2 hours to Jakar. Bumthang (the "Plain of Ghosts") is a land of myth and mystery and tales of the great Guru Padmasambhava who performed formidable feats and miracles here. A beautiful view of Jakar Dzong (" Castle of the White Bird") can be had from View Point. Lunch will be served in Hotel. Afternoon: hike up to Lame Gompa, a temple built by the First King of Bhutan for his two nun sisters. Outside Lame Gompa one can see a workshop for traditional Bhutanese paper-making.
Overnight halt in Hotel.
Day 7 Bumthang - Halt
Visit the Dairy Farm, the Swiss Cheese Factory and Apple Juice Factory. Walk around Bumthang valley in preparation for the excursion to Nganglakhang.
Day 8 Bumthang - Nganglhakhang
Distance - 20 kms, about 5 - 6 hours journey. Altitude of Nganglhakhang - 9500 ft. The route follows the Chamkharchu, a river rich in trout. Stop for lunch at Thangbi Lhakhang. From here the trek enters the Ngang Yul (Land of the Swan ) at the centre of which lies the Nganglhakhang (Swan Temple). This place was filled with swans in ancient times, hence the name.
Overnight halt at camp.
Day 9 Nganglhakhang - Ugyenchholing Distance 23 kms. About 7-8 hours journey. Altitude of Ugyenchboling - 9300 ft. The trek starts with a gradual climb to Phepela Pass at an altitude of 3353 mtrs, 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. Along the way, the Ugyenchholing Palace can be seen.
Overnight halt in camp.
Day 10 Ugyenchholing - Jakar Distance - 10 kms. About 2 - 3 hours journey. Altitude - 9000 ft. The trail follows the Tang Chu, another trout-filled river. On the bank of the river is the Tang Rimpoche Lhakhang. The trek will pass the Membar Tsho (Flaming Lake). From Panshing, the group will be picked-up by vehicle and driven to Jakar.
Overnight halt in Wangdichholing Lodge.
Day 11 Jakar- Trongsa Drive to Trongsa along the East - West Highway. Stops can be made along the way to enjoy the scenery. Lunch at Hotel in Trongsa.
Afternoon:, leisurely stroll through Trongsa town.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 12 Trongsa - Thimphu Drive back to Thimphu along the East - West Highway. Picnic lunch will be arranged at Wangdi Guest House.
Overnight halt in Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 13 Thimphu - Paro International Airport
Drive to Paro International Airport where our representatives will bid you Bon Voyage
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