Bhutan Treks

Samtemgang Winter Trek

Outline Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at Paro Airport.
During the flight, one will experience breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Chomolhari and Mount Jitchu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro Airport, you will be received by our representatives and escorted to your hotel where arrangements will have been made for two nights halt.

Day 2 Paro - Sightseeing
Visit the National Museum (Ta-Dzong). Once the watch tower for the Rinpung Dzong it was converted to the National Museum in 1968. Visit the Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located on a hill top above the Pachu (Paro River) of Paro Valley. You have to walk about 15 minutes by crossing an ancient wooden bridge built in typical Bhutanese architecture. The Dzong houses the District Administration Office and the District Monk Body. It was built in 1645 A.D.
Lunch at Hotel
Visit the Drugyel Dzong, located 16 kms. away from Paro town. Although in ruins, this Dzong is of great historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. From here, the peak of Chomolhari "Mountain of the Goddess" can be seen on a clear day (All. 7,329 mtrs/24,029 ft.). On the way back visit a typical Bhutanese farmhouse.

Visit Kyichu Lhakhang (Lhakhang means Monastery). Kyichu Lbhkhang was built in 659 AD by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. It is considered one of the holiest places in Bhutan as it marks the advent of Buddhism in the country.

Day 3 Paro - Thimphu
Drive along the winding road along the Paro Chu (chu means water or river) down stream to the confluence with the Wang Chu then turn upstream and travel along 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. Evening: Reception with cultural entertainment.


Day 4 Thimphu - Khuruthang
Drive to Khuruthang with pack lunch provided from the hotel. Stop at Dochula pass for a grand view of the Himalayan mountain ranges (if the weather is clear). Lunch at camp site.
After lunch, drive down to Punakha and visit the Dzong.

Day 5 Khuruthang - Limukha
Drive till Punakha. The trek begins with the gradual climb through Chirpine forests, On the way, visit a village called, Dompala.

Day 6 Limukha - Chungsaka
The trail today takes you through rhododendron and oak forest. Enroute pass the famous Drukpa Kuenley Lhakhang. Overnight in camp. Distance 14 kms, about 5 to 6 hrs walk.

Day 7 Chungsaka - Samtengang
The trail now takes you through the village of Sha Wangdi District. Camp at Samtengang at lake side. Distance 13 kms - about 5 hours.

Day 8 Samtengang - Wangdi/Thimphu
The trail now drops down till the motor road. Drive till Wangdiphodrang and lunch at the Guest House. Overnight in Motithang Hotel.

Day 9 Thimphu - Sightseeing
Visit Simtokha Dzong. This is one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan. It was built in 1629 A.D. It houses the largest monastic school in the country. Visit the Wood Craft and Painting School where traditional art and crafts are still kept alive. Visit the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts are displayed and can be purchased. Lunch and afternoon siesta
Evening:

Day 10 Paro - Paro Airport