TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL
Embark on a transformative journey through the heart of Bhutan with the Trans Bhutan Trail, a historic path that connects the country from west to east. Over nine days, this immersive experience takes you from the vibrant city of Thimphu to the serene valleys of Bumthang, passing through ancient monasteries, majestic dzongs, and picturesque villages.
Begin your adventure in Paro, then travel to Thimphu to explore its cultural landmarks. From there, traverse the stunning Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 chortens, and descend into the lush Punakha Valley. Hike through diverse landscapes, from verdant forests to terraced fields, reaching remote villages like Limukha and Chungsakha where you will experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality. As you trek, visit iconic sites such as the Punakha Dzong, Gangtey Monastery in the Phobjikha Valley, and the impressive Trongsa Dzong. Each step reveals Bhutan’s rich history and spiritual heritage, deeply intertwined with the trail. The journey culminates in Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, offering a serene conclusion to an unforgettable adventure. This trip not only challenges and rewards hikers with its natural beauty and cultural depth but also offers a rare glimpse into the timeless traditions of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Trip Details
Embark on a divine journey through mystical Bhutan, where sacred and sublime meet in a seamless blend of culture and nature. From the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery to the tranquil Gangtey Valley, immerse yourself in spiritual heritage and breathtaking landscapes, leaving with unforgettable memories and deep peace.
Duration
12 Days & 11 Nights
Group Size
Minimum 03 Members
Trip Type
Adventure, Spiritual and Culture Trip
Include
The tour prices cover a multitude of benefits, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. Included are accommodations in premium hotels, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout your stay. Transportation is provided for the entire itinerary, allowing you to travel with ease and convenience. Meals featuring authentic local cuisine are included, giving you a taste of the region’s culinary delights. Additionally, entrance fees to select sites are covered, eliminating the hassle of purchasing tickets. The expertise of knowledgeable guides is also provided, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of each location you visit. This comprehensive package ensures a worry-free and memorable journey.
- Rate inclusive of all three meals both local and continental healthy cuisine.
- Rate inclusive of all accommodation [three-star hotels with double/twin sharing basis]
- Rate inclusive of air-conditioned tourist standard transportation.
- Rate inclusive of local tour English-speaking licensed guide on all your sightseeing tours.
- Rate inclusive of extensive choices of flexible comprehensive tour itineraries.
- Rate inclusive of Bhutan Government Royalty fees of $ 100 per person per nights.
- Rate inclusive of all entry fees, museum fees and historical attraction fees.
- Rate inclusive of all applicable taxes – BST 10%, Service Charge 10%
- Rate inclusive of one-time visa fee of USD 40.
- Rate inclusive of airport arrival and departure transfer in Bhutan.
- Rate inclusive of arrival refreshments.
- Rate inclusive of one bottle mineral water each a day.
- Rate inclusive of a small farewell gift on the day of departure.
- Rate inclusive of one-time cultural program for group exceedingly above 7 members.
Exclude
Regrettably, certain elements are not encompassed in our Bhutan packages, necessitating clients to cover additional expenses independently. These include international airfare, which clients need to arrange on their own, and travel insurance, which is essential for covering any unforeseen incidents. Personal expenditures such as souvenirs, extra meals, and other incidental costs are also not included. Additionally, entrance fees to specific attractions are not covered, requiring clients to pay these separately. Clients must ensure they are prepared to bear these costs beyond the package provisions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
- Rate does not include incoming & outgoing Bhutan airfares and airport taxes.
- Rate does not include drinks and alcohols and non- alcoholic beverage.
- Rate does not include guides speaking language other than English.
- Rate does not include expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, potter, telephone/fax calls, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, any insurance etc
- Rate does not include extra expenses or loss due to nature and un-foreseen events beyond the control of our management.
- Rate does not include any service outside Bhutan.
- Rate does not include onetime bank transfer charge of USD 45.
- Rate does not include tipping to guide, driver etc.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Journey where sacred and sublime seamlessly intertwine, immersing you in its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Morning: Arrive at Paro International Airport.
Afternoon: Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1.5 hours).
Evening: Explore Thimphu, visit Tashichho Dzong and
the National Memorial Chorten.
Overnight: Thimphu.
Embark on an exhilarating hike to the famed Tiger’s
Nest, or Paro Taktsang, an iconic monastery perched precariously on a cliffside
3,120 meters above sea level, where the journey begins with a gentle ascent
through pine forests, punctuated by the scent of blooming rhododendrons and the
sight of fluttering prayer flags, leading you to a steep and challenging climb
that rewards your efforts with awe-inspiring views of the Paro Valley below;
upon reaching the monastery, marvel at its stunning architecture and profound
spiritual significance as the legendary meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, whose
journey on the back of a tigress gave this sacred site its name, offering a
deeply enriching and unforgettable experience that encapsulates the mystical
allure and serene beauty of Bhutan.
Morning: Drive to Dochula Pass, enjoy panoramic views
of the Himalayas.
Afternoon: Hike from Dochula Pass to Lungchutse
Monastery and then to Trashigang Goenpa (6 km, approx. 4-5 hours).
Evening: Continue drive to Punakha.
Overnight: Punakha.
Morning: Visit Punakha Dzong.
Afternoon: Hike from Punakha Dzong to Limukha (11 km,
approx. 5-6 hours).
Overnight: Limukha village (local homestay).
Morning: Hike from Limukha to Chungsakha via Dompala
(14 km, approx. 6-7 hours).
Afternoon: Visit Chungsakha Lhakhang.
Overnight: Camp in Chungsakha.
Morning: Hike from Chungsakha to Chorten Ningpo (12
km, approx. 5-6 hours).
Afternoon: Explore Chorten Ningpo Monastery.
Overnight: Camp near the monastery.
Morning: Hike from Chorten Ningpo to Tikke Zampa and
drive to Phobjikha Valley (8 km hike, 1-hour drive).
Afternoon: Explore Gangtey Monastery and the beautiful
Phobjikha Valley.
Overnight: Phobjikha.
Morning: Drive from Phobjikha to Trongsa (approx. 5
hours).
Afternoon: Visit Trongsa Dzong and the Tower of
Trongsa Museum.
Overnight: Trongsa.
Morning: Drive to Bumthang (approx. 2.5 hours).
Afternoon: Visit Jakar Dzong and Kurjey Lhakhang.
Overnight: Bumthang.
In Bumthang explore the following places of interest.
Jakar Dzong
Known as the “Fortress of the White Bird,” it is one of the largest dzongs in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of the Bumthang Valley.
Kurjey Lhakhang
A sacred monastery where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on a rock. It’s an important pilgrimage site for Bhutanese Buddhists.
Jambay Lhakhang
One of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. It hosts the annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival with mask dances and rituals.
Tamshing Lhakhang
Founded by the revered saint Pema Lingpa in 1501, it houses beautiful religious paintings and is a center of spiritual activity.
Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
A sacred lake where Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures. It’s a popular site for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Swiss Farm and Cheese Factory
Visit the Bumthang Swiss Farm to see local cheese and honey production. It’s a unique blend of Bhutanese and Swiss agricultural practices.
Today, after enjoying a leisurely breakfast in your hotel, embark on a scenic drive to Paro, with a captivating stop en route at Wangdue Drong, where you can explore the historical Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, marvel at the stunning views of the Punak Tsang Chhu River, and soak in the serene ambiance of the surrounding lush landscapes, making it a perfect blend of cultural enrichment and natural beauty on your journey through Bhutan.
After enjoying a delightful breakfast in the hotel, embark on a picturesque drive to Paro airport, where you will bid a fond farewell to your attentive Bhutanese guide and driver, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes of Bhutan, before departing to your onward destination, carrying with you cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the rich culture and warm hospitality that made your journey truly extraordinary.
BOOK THIS TRIP NOW
If you’re pleased with the itinerary, seize the opportunity and book now to revel in the divine beauty of Bhutan.