The Trans Bhutan Trail

The adventure begins with the most spectacular of all mountain flights. Flying past the great snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountain range, the descent into Paro takes you through a narrow valley between the mountains and past villages and houses dotted along the hillslopes. The valley then suddenly opens to reveal a wider valley with rice fields; villages and the airstrip located along the riverbank. Paro airport is the only airport in the world where the altitude exceeds the length of the airstrip. On arrival at Paro airport and after completion of airport formalities, you will be met by your tour guide. You will then be transferred to your hotel. After an early lunch, we will visit the National Museum, known as Ta Dzong, which houses a fine collection of ancient thangka paintings, textiles, weaponry, and other artifacts. From above the museum, we will take a short 1.5-hour leisurely hike on the Zurik Trail, which leads to a stunning view of Paro Dzong (fortress), the airport, and the whole of the Paro Valley and township. Our driver will be waiting to pick us up at the end of the trail. After the hike, there will be free time to roam the quaint streets of Paro at your leisure as you acclimatise to the altitude. Included Activities: Visit Taa Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan) Zurik Trail hike Accommodation: Resort Thim Dorji or equivalent (4*) Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Today we drive to Haa valley en route Kila Nunnery, a cliff face monastery—home to over 60 nuns who follow a strict daily routine of prayer, meditation and study. The visit allows you to mingle with the nuns and ask questions. We will then head north towards a sacred sky burial site, ascending gently through a forest of hemlock and rhododendrons. In Bhutan, according to Buddhist custom, children under the age of eight are not cremated but instead given a sky burial. From this spot, weather permitting, you will enjoy stunning views of the eastern Himalayas. Mountain passes are among the most sacred places in Bhutan, and it is customary to burn incense as an offering here. You may also hang colourful prayer flags—an expression of respect to the gods and a prayer for safety along the epic Trans Bhutan Trail. Afterwards, we follow an undulating ridgeline towards Chele La, a mountain pass at 4000 metres, where our driver will be waiting to take us on to the Haa Valley. Later in the day, there will be time to relax or enjoy some gentle acclimatization walks with your guide. Activities: A visit to Kila Nunnery (A cliff face monastery) Chele La ridgeline hike Walking around the town of Haa and the local villages Accommodation: Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge or equivalent (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, join your guide for an acclimatisation walk along the Haa Panorama Hiking Trail. This enchanting trail winds through pine forests and offers views of lush green hills and scenic valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass the charming Katsho Eco Camp, then continue towards the Bjungneydra Monastery—also known as the Mini Tiger’s Nest—perched near a cliff edge. The walk concludes at the picturesque Wangtsa Village, a peaceful and rural setting. After lunch, visit the Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) complex, located just south of Haa Dzong, to attend a traditional pre-expedition blessing ceremony in preparation for your upcoming journey along the Trans Bhutan Trail. Later, make a brief visit to Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple), the abode of Ap Chundu, a revered local guardian deity believed to protect the people of Haa and bestow good health and success. Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening. Included Activities: Explore Haa Panorama Hiking Trail Visit Lhakhang Nagpo & Karpo (temples) Accommodation: Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Katsho, where you will begin your first day of trekking on the ancient historical 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 continue gently uphill further, look out for the sky burial site of Gungkarpo along the way to Kaleyla pass, which we visited earlier during our acclimatisation hike. At Kaleyla, on clearest days you will enjoy afar partial stunning views of the Himalayan vistas to the north, there you will be provided with a picnic lunch during this stop. Afterwards, 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, check into your hotel where your guide will arrange for dinner either at your hotel or in a local restaurant. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Resort Thimdorji or similar (4*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail heading east. The trail ascends gently from Lamgong village, passing through the sprawling rice paddies of the Paro Valley before curving around the northern ridge and descending into the traditional village of Dopshari. At Dopshari, enjoy a cookery demonstration and a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local farmhouse. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport, and play a quick game of khuru (traditional darts). In the afternoon, set out on the trail once more for a final climb up to Upper Dopshari (Damchenang), where your hike concludes with stunning views over the Paro Valley. Return to your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax and unwind. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Cookery demonstration Archery and khuru (darts) session Accommodation: Resort Thimdorji or similar (4*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail heading east towards Tsalunang. Today’s trek begins with a climb from Upper Dopshari (Chubjakha), passing through community reforestation projects into lush mixed conifer forests, following the course of a pristine mountain stream. Along the way, you may find the perfect spot to hoist some lungdhar (prayer flags) near Jele La (pass). Enjoy a picnic lunch in the vicinity of Jela Dzong. If time permits, you may wish to take a short detour to visit the Dzong, which was built on the site where Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is said to have encountered the protective deity Pal Yeshe Goenpo during his pilgrimage to Paro. The temple’s main relics are statues of Du Sum Sangye (the Buddha of the Past, Present, and Future). It is believed that the Buddha once faced north but miraculously turned to face southwest towards Paro. From Je La, the trail descends gently into the Tsalunang Valley, winding through forests of blue pine and rhododendron. Birdwatching enthusiasts will want to keep an eye out for some of Bhutan’s beautiful species along this stretch. Upon arrival in Tsalunang, check in at your farmhouse accommodation and enjoy a leisurely evening. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Local Farmhouse Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at the farmhouse, continue your hike east towards Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu. Situated 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. It is also the only capital without traffic lights, offering a unique blend of modern life and Bhutanese tradition. From Tsalunang, the trail climbs through forests of fir, blue pine, and dwarf rhododendron, passing yak pastures before reaching Pumo La Thabzakha (pass), the highest point on the Trans Bhutan Trail at 3,994 metres (13,104 feet). In the past, herders from Punakha would bring their cattle here during summer to escape the heat of the lower valley. Stop for a picnic lunch while taking in the spectacular mountain views at Pumo La Thabzakha. Then descend along the trail through picturesque meadows, with long ridges offering sweeping views of the Thimphu Valley. Towards the end of the day, you will arrive at Buddha Point, home to Thimphu’s iconic Buddha Dordenma statue. This 51-metre (167-foot) gilded bronze statue, filled with 125,000 miniature Buddhas and sitting atop a three-storey base housing a chapel and thousands of donated statuettes, was commissioned to mark the 60th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Check in to your hotel, then head out for dinner with your guide at one of the city’s excellent restaurants. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Buddha Dordenma Accommodation: Tashi Yoedling or similar (3*) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, return to Buddha Dordenma to rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail. Before the National Highway was built, the section of the trail you will follow today was a busy thoroughfare connecting Thimphu with Punakha and further east. From here, you will descend through the Debsi Valley. After crossing the river on the motor road bridge, follow the old east-west highway through the town of Babesa until you reach Simtokha Dzong. Built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Simtokha Dzong is said to stand on the site where a demon once vanished into a rocky outcrop. It is believed to be the first fortress in Bhutan designed to house both administrative and monastic residents, and it is also the oldest dzong to survive as a complete structure. The dzong features many fine murals, carvings, and tapestries, a three-storey utse (tower), and several chapels. From Simtokha, the trail climbs steadily, passing through orchards, strawberry fields, and market gardens. The hike ends in Hongtsho, where you will join your vehicle for the drive back to the hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Tashi Yoedling or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, return to Hongtsho, from where the trail winds through dense forest and across open meadows. The path eventually reaches Dochu La, a mountain pass at 3,116 metres (10,224 feet) above sea level. Dochu La is renowned for some of the most spectacular sunrises in Bhutan, so an early start is recommended. On clear mornings, you can enjoy panoramic views of the distant Himalayan range. Be sure to visit the Druk Wangyal Chorten, also known as the '108 Chortens', and explore the nearby meditation caves. After a short break at the pass, begin a historic descent into the adjacent valley, joining a section of the trail known as the 'Divine Madman Trail'. This is the path once travelled by Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman, who came to Bhutan from Tibet in the 15th century to fulfil his destiny of subduing evil energies. Over the coming days, you will encounter numerous important cultural sites and hear extraordinary stories connected to his life. Stop for a picnic lunch at Lumitsawa before continuing down towards Thinleygang Lhakhang, a historic temple. Upon arrival at the temple, conclude your walk and transfer to a local farmhouse, where you can relax and experience various aspects of traditional Bhutanese life. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Druk Wangyal Chorten (stupa) Accommodation: Local Farmhouse Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, head down towards Toeb Chandhana to follow in the footsteps of the Divine Madman. If time permits, visit the Toeb Chandhana Lhakhang, also known as Chandhana Lhakhang, meaning "where the arrow landed." According to legend, Drukpa Kuenley fired an arrow from Tibet to determine his path, and it landed here. The temple was built in the 15th century to ward off the evil energy of a demoness and later served as the religious seat of Ngawang Chogyal. The two hills at either end of the temple are said to resemble the knees of Ngawang Chogyal himself. Next door is the house of Toeb Tshewang, where Kuenley’s arrow is said to have struck. Legend has it that, disguised as a hunting beggar, Kuenley courted Tshewang’s wife. In a fit of jealousy, Tshewang drew a sword, which Kuenley miraculously knotted. Recognizing Kuenley’s divine power, Tshewang offered his wife to him to aid in fulfilling his prophecies. The house still contains the eleven-stepped wooden ladder that the arrow is said to have struck, and Tshewang’s descendants have preserved the house as a monument for fifteen generations. After the visit, bid farewell to Toeb Chandhana and begin the ascent towards Sew Drangsa. In recent years, the central monastic body has occasionally used this route to travel between its winter residence in Punakha and summer residence in Thimphu. At Sew Drangsa, you will find a clearing marked with prayer flags, where the monks traditionally stop for lunch and where you will also pause. From here, the trail descends towards Punakha Dzong, offering spectacular views of the Punakha Valley along the way. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner with your guide at a local restaurant. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Toeb Chandhana Lhakhang (temple) Accommodation: The Four Boutique or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, rejoin the trail heading east towards Lingmukha. The trail first passes through paddy fields before climbing steadily to a chorten, which marks the highest point of today’s hike. Stop here for a picnic lunch and enjoy scenic views of the valleys to the north. After lunch, the trail descends into the picturesque Lingmukha Valley. The final hour or so of today’s hike follows a feeder road. The valley is often called Lingmup Sher gi Zhom, or "the golden bowl," because of the many rice fields lying beneath the surrounding ridges. Here, you will visit Lingmukha Lhakhang, built by the great treasure revealer Terton Dorji Lingpa (terton means treasure revealer). According to oral tradition, Dorji Lingpa arrived in Lingmukha around the 14th century, built the temple, and settled there with his disciples. He is said to have discovered many termas, or hidden treasures, in the village. After visiting the temple, continue to your campsite, where dinner prepared from organic, locally sourced produce will be served. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Lingmukha Lhakhang (temple) Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, rejoin the trail heading east towards Samtengang. Historically, this section of the trail was often used by the people of Lingmukha and the nearby village of Phangyul. Although separated by a steep ridge, the two villages consider themselves close relatives who share the same cultural roots. The trail rises from the depths of the Lingmukha Valley, climbing steeply through dense forest to a rest stop at a ridge-top. From there, the trail descends sharply, offering panoramic views of the Shar Valleys. If time allows, stop to visit Chungse Azhe Gyalzom Lhakhang, a temple built on the spot where a small disc-like stone, known as a Chan-do, is said to have landed after being thrown by the Divine Madman, Lam Drukpa Kuenley, from Sha Kuenzangling on the opposite side of the valley. After lunch, continue along the trail, passing small farming villages perched on steep slopes and Lhakhang Thangkha, a temple believed to be one of the eight lings, or meditation and teaching sites, of Kunkhyen Longchen Rabjam. The trail then climbs to Samtengang, where your campsite is set up for the night. Dinner at the campsite will be prepared using organic, locally sourced produce. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, set out on a historically significant section of the trail, once used by the messenger Garp Lunghi Khorlo and the chamberlain Pemi Tshewang Tashi. This is an isolated part of the trail, passing through no human settlements, allowing you to be fully immersed in nature throughout the day. Leaving Samtengang, the trail begins with a climb, then levels out before descending towards Razawo by the end of the day. At Razawo, visit the chorten, believed to have been built during the time of Buddha Kashyapa and considered one of the oldest in Bhutan. After visiting the chorten, continue to your campsite for the night, where dinner made from organic, locally sourced produce will be served. Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Razawo Chorten (stupa) Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, set out on the trail, which follows the river briefly after leaving Razawo. The path starts along a farm road before entering open meadows and forests of oak and walnut. From a certain point, the trail begins climbing towards Rida village. The rest of the day involves a steady climb to Pele La, the mountain pass. The main highlight of Rida village is the temple, which houses a bronze statue of Sangay Tsepadme, the Buddha of longevity, facing Pele La. Legend says the statue was built by a young monk, the son of a local couple who had been unable to have children until blessed by the Tsepame (Longevity Buddha). The monk created the statue in gratitude for his parents’ kindness. From the temple, the trail continues up through rhododendron forests to Pele La. At 3,413 metres (11,198 feet), the pass is one of Bhutan’s highest and traditionally marks the boundary between western and central Bhutan. Local craftspeople often sell fine yak-hair products along the roadside. After visiting the pass, descend to the meadows of Longtey below Pele La. On arrival, settle into your campsite and enjoy a dinner prepared from organic, locally sourced produce. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Shar Ridha Temple Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, continue on the Trans Bhutan Trail. As you descend through the meadows, look out for the remote yak herder camps scattered throughout the valley. Stop at a traditional farmhouse in the village of Rukubji for a hot lunch, then visit Rukubji’s village temple, Kuenzang Choeling. The temple is believed to have been built around 300 years ago by a master named Tshendhen Duelwa. Unlike most temples, it is not located on a ridge overlooking a valley, but on an extended plateau near two rivers. This is said to be because the master built the temple on top of the head of a snake-demoness he subdued there. Rukubji is also known for its unique local language. Over tea, you will have the chance to learn about the dialect, called Ngyen-Kye, which blends other dialects from across Bhutan with some English words. Today, it is spoken by only a dozen or so households. In the afternoon, rejoin the trail for a gentle climb out of the valley through forest, then descend to the village of Chendebji, where you will camp for the night. Dinner at the campsite will be prepared using locally sourced organic ingredients. Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Lunch at Traditional Farmhouse Visit Rukubji Lhakhang (temple) Accommodation: Deluxe camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, visit Chendebji Chorten, believed to mark the point where three ridges and the edges of the sky meet. The chorten was built by Lam Ngedup Tshering Wangchuk to subdue a local demoness, Nyala Dudm, and bring peace to the Chendebji Valley. Next, visit the Nikka Chu Hydroelectric Dam to see how Bhutan generates green energy. These renewable energy projects contribute to Bhutan’s status as the only carbon-negative country in the world and provide electricity for export to India. Continuing east, stop at Trashichoeling Lhakhang in Trashiling village, considered the central point of the country. The temple was built in 2002 by His Holiness the 70th Je Khenpo (chief abbot) as an offering to His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan. Trongsa is Bhutan’s geographical center and closely linked to the Royal Family. The first two hereditary kings ruled from Trongsa Dzong, and the crown prince still serves as the Penlop of Trongsa before ascending the throne. The Trans Bhutan Trail passes directly through the city, and in the past it even went through Trongsa Dzong. You will recreate this historic experience by descending into the valley below the viewpoint, enjoying views of the dzong across the valley. At the bottom, cross the old cantilever bridge over the Mangde River before climbing the opposite side to enter Trongsa Dzong through the Western gate. After lunch at a local restaurant, tour Trongsa Dzong. The dzong was first built in 1541 by Wangchuck as a small meditation room after he discovered self-manifested hoof prints of the deity Pelden Lhamo. The dzong took its present form in 1644 and was enlarged at the end of the 17th century. It houses around 450 monks who spend winters in Trongsa and summers in Bumthang. You will visit a selection of its 23 temples before heading to Trongsa Ta Dzong, now the Royal Heritage Museum. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax, followed by dinner with your guide at your hotel. Included Activities: Visit Chendebji Chorten (stupa) Visit Nikka Chu hydropower project Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Trongsa Dzong Accommodation: Norbulingka Resort and similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, leave Trongsa and continue on the trail for a gradual climb to Yotong La, a mountain pass. Today’s trek passes through several ecological zones, making it especially rewarding for birdwatchers. From Kewathang, the trail winds through dense forest before reaching the pass, where you will stop for a picnic lunch. From Yotong La, the trail descends through meadows and open forest until it meets the Geytsa River. The final stretch is a pleasant riverside walk to Geytsa, passing Chuchi Lhakhang. While there are no official records of its construction, locals believe it was one of 108 temples built across the Himalayas by King Songsten Gampo in the 7th century. Enjoy a warm dinner at the camp this evening with your guide. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, set out on a historic section of the trail that was traditionally used by the Royal Family when travelling between Trongsa and Bumthang or to Kuenga Rabten, where the Second King had his summer residence. From Geytsa, the trail climbs through pine forests to Kiki La (pass), where it briefly follows the route of the Owl Trek. From Kiki La, the trail descends gently into the Bumthang Valley, offering spectacular views of Jakar Dzong along the way. Later, visit the impressive Jakar Dzong, also called the "Castle of the White Bird." This massive fortress dominates the Chamkhar Valley and the town below. It was built in 1549 by the Tibetan Lam Nagi Wangchuk as Eastern Bhutan’s main defensive stronghold and later became the seat of the First King of Bhutan. Unique features include its fifty-metre tower and a sheltered passage with two parallel walls connected by fortified towers, which ensured access to water during a siege. Dinner this evening will be at the hotel with your guide. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Jakar Dzong (fortress) Accommodation: Yugharling Resort or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Bumthang is the name for a group of four valleys—Chumey, Choekhor, Tang, and Ura—with altitudes ranging from 2,600 to 4,000 metres (8,530–13,125 feet). The area is home to many ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries. While in Jakar, take the chance to visit one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. The 7th century Tibetan king Songsten Gampo is said to have built 108 temples in a single day, and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang is believed to be one of them. The Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival is one of the most interesting events in the area. In the evening, attend the festival and watch the chams, or traditional dances, including Tercham, the Naked Dance, which was first performed by Terton Dorji Lingpa. Other dances include Mewang, Macham, Ging Tsholing, Dramtse Ngacham, and Zhana Cham, performed by villagers from Norgang, Changwa, and Nangsiphel. Afterwards, continue across farmlands into the valley towards Kurjey Lhakhang. The site includes three temples. The temple on the right was built in 1652 against the rock face where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. The middle temple, considered the most sacred, is built on a cave containing a rock with the imprint of the Guru’s body. Included Activities: Visit Jambey Lhakhang (temple) Visit Kurjey Lhakhang (temple) Accommodation: Yugharling Resort or similar (3") Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, head east out of Bumthang through the charming town of Chamkhar, then climb up to Badha La (pass), enjoying spectacular views of Lhodrak Karchu Dratsang. The monastery is one of the most important in Bhutan and is believed to have been founded in 1984 by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche, a descendant of a Tibetan lama whose lineage traces back to a close disciple of Guru Padmasambhava. Originally, the two-story monastery could house 70 monks, but it has since grown to accommodate over 400. The building includes a large assembly hall with statues of Guru Rinpoche and a terrace with breathtaking views of the Chokhor Valley and Jakar Dzong. After Badha La, the trail descends towards Babzur village and continues to Pema Choling Nunnery. Women and girls at the nunnery follow a nine-year course in the Nyingma Peling Buddhist tradition and are known for a special drum ceremony called chod. From the nunnery, continue south to the sacred Mebartsho, or Burning Lake. In the 15th century, the treasure hunter Pema Lingpa is said to have discovered several of Guru Rinpoche's hidden treasures here. According to legend, Pema Lingpa had a dream calling him to this spot on the Tang River. When he arrived, he saw a temple at the bottom of the river with many doors, one of which was open. He swam into a large cave where a one-eyed woman gave him a treasure chest. He later repeated the feat in front of locals while holding a lit butter lamp that did not go out underwater, which is why the pool is called Burning Lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch outdoors before returning to your hotel. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Pema Choling Nunnery Visit Mebartsho (Burning Lake) Accommodation: Yugharling Resort or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, rejoin the trail and head southwest towards Ura Valley. The trail follows the old east-west highway briefly before turning back into the rolling countryside, passing fields of buckwheat. Stop for a picnic lunch near the village of Tangsibi before continuing on the switchback climb to Sheytang La Chorten. From the chorten, enjoy fantastic views of the Ura Valley. Then descend into the valley and continue to your campsite for a locally-sourced organic dinner. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, visit Ura Lhakhang, built in 1982. Its main statue is a two-story Guru Rinpoche, and locals say a human-size copper Guru Rinpoche statue in the temple once helped protect the valley from a past outbreak of leprosy. After the visit, continue your trek through Ura Valley and climb towards Wangthang La (pass). This section passes through the scenic Phrumseng La National Park, a large nature reserve that is home to red pandas, tigers, and rare birds. Stop for a picnic lunch before descending to Gayzamchu (river), where you will camp for the night. At the campsite, enjoy a hot shower and a locally-sourced organic dinner. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Ura Lhakhang (temple) Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, set out for another challenging day, climbing through Phrumseng La National Park towards Thrimshing La (pass). From Gayzamchu, the trail winds through rhododendron forests—keep an eye out for the rare and elusive red panda. Stop for a picnic lunch before descending from Thrimshing La through dense forest and past herder camps to Sengor, where you can enjoy stunning valley views. You will camp overnight at Sengor. On arrival, take some time to explore the nearby area before enjoying a locally-sourced organic dinner. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, descend gently into Sengor Valley, passing Sengor Lhakhang, an ancient temple thought to have been built in the 18th century by the First Patseling Trulku Drubtob Namgyel Lhundrub. Continue through dense forest towards Latong La (pass). Today’s trail passes through a variety of vegetation, offering a wonderful glimpse of Bhutan’s natural beauty. For most of the day, you will hear the Phangphang La waterfall in the distance. The walk includes three river crossings, and your guide will check local conditions for safety. At the end of the day, drive back to your previous camp for the night and enjoy a locally-sourced organic dinner. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Sengor Lhakhang (temple) Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, rejoin the trail, following an undulating path that gradually descends through pastureland to the rustic community of Saling. Much of the descent uses dry-stone staircases built by ancestors, a reminder of a time when traders, pilgrims, and messengers would have passed this way. From Saling, continue a steep descent through dense tropical forest to the base of the mountain, crossing a suspension bridge over the Kuri Chu (river) as the climate becomes noticeably warmer. The trail also passes the mystical ruins of Zhongar Dzong. The fortress was likely destroyed by fire and an earthquake, though legend says it fell due to a curse from its architect, Zochen Bala. According to the story, Bala was killed by the king to prevent him from replicating the design elsewhere, but he was reborn as an evil serpent believed to live beneath the ruins. You will camp overnight at Lingmithang. On arrival, take time to relax and unwind. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, head east towards Mongar. The trail follows the East-West highway for much of the morning, reaching the Kuri River. From Kuri Zampa, the trail turns into dense forest and climbs sharply up to Mongar. If time allows, visit Mongar Dzong, the town’s main landmark. Built in 1930, it serves as both the district administrative headquarters and the home of the local monastic body. The monastery provides accommodation, food, and spiritual education for young monks, especially those from rural areas. Afterwards, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner with your guide at a local restaurant. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Wangchuk Hotel or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, head east from Mongar towards Ngatshang. Today you will climb towards Kori La (pass), passing through the villages of Wengkhar and Themnangbi along the way. At Kori La, stop for a picnic lunch at a sacred spot called Wadipa Nye (sacred site), just above the pass. A statue of Guru Rinpoche marks the place where, in the 7th century, a cow herder saw him meditating and offered him milk. An annual festival is held here, during which locals place their hands under a rock. If their hand comes out with animal fur, it is believed they will receive great prosperity. Tonight, camp near Kori La. On arrival, take time to relax and enjoy the calm mountain surroundings. Included Activities Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, follow the trail as it descends towards Ngatshang. On arrival, visit the Jarong Khasor Stupa. Some locals believe that a bend in the stupa’s base was caused by the spiritual impurities of the Trashigang Dzongpon’s body as it rested there on its way back to Trashigang. Continue east, descending through sub-tropical forest to the village of Sherizampa. At Sherizampa, check into your campsite, where you can enjoy a hot shower and a locally-sourced organic dinner. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, cross the old suspension bridge and follow the trail as it climbs through pine and lemongrass forests, along ridges with stunning views. Stop at Baging La (pass) for lunch, then continue gently uphill to Drametse. Take a short detour to visit Drametse Lhakhang, a temple built in the 16th century by Ani Cheten Zangmo, the granddaughter of Terton Pema Lingpa. Ani Cheten Zangmo came here from Bumthang to escape a marriage proposal from a local king and found the site ideal for meditation. Drametse means ‘the peak without enemies’ and is the main seat of Terton Pema Lingpa’s lineage, as well as an important religious and cultural center for eastern Bhutan. On arrival, check into your campsite and take time to relax and explore the Drametse community. Included Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, head out on the trail as it descends steeply from Drametse past the village of Bazur, where you will visit Bazur Lhakhang. Before the reign of His Majesty the Third King of Bhutan, the temple was used to store royal grain, but it was later restored as a temple at the request of one of the workers. From Bazur, the trail descends gently for a while before climbing a steep ridge to reach Narang, where you will stop for lunch. After lunch, continue down through the village towards Durung, on the border between Mongar and Trashigang districts. Cross the river and visit the community temple of Dongnga Choeling. From there, the trail climbs up towards Gongthung. In Gongthung, visit Jarong Khashor Stupa, a Nepalese-style stupa built during the visit of a lama from Pemakhue (now Arunachal Pradesh, India). After the visit, head to the campsite, where you can relax, enjoy a hot shower, and a locally-sourced organic dinner. Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Jarong Khashor Chorten (Stupa) Accommodation: Deluxe Camping Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at camp, set out on the Trans Bhutan Trail for your final day of trekking, having covered nearly 400 kilometres since leaving Haa one month ago. From Jarong Khashor Stupa at Gongthung, the trail descends through small villages until reaching Chazam, the bridge over the Dangmechu (river) that leads into Trashigang. Along the way, enjoy views of Trashigang Dzong in the distance. Trashigang Dzong will be your final stop on this remarkable journey from west to east. Built in 1659 on a ledge with steep cliffs on three sides, the fortress overlooks the Dangme and Gamri rivers. It is said that Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal prophesied its construction and instructed Trongsa Penlop Minjur Tempa to mobilize local leaders to build it. Local stories suggest that the Tibetan army retreated at the sight of the Dzong. In the late afternoon, check into your hotel, then head out with your guide to a local restaurant to celebrate your achievement. Activities: Hike on the Trans Bhutan Trail Visit Trashigang Dzong (fortress) Accommodation: Doejung Resort or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, travel to Yonphula airport for your domestic flight back to Paro. On arrival, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, which means 'Fortress on a Heap of Jewels.' The Dzong was originally built in 1458 and was restored by His Majesty the Third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, to mark his royal wedding in 1951. Next, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, it was part of a mission to subdue a demoness across the Himalayas. Surrounded by orange trees and ancient prayer wheels, the temple is an important pilgrimage site and a symbol of Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage. Visiting Kichu Lhakhang is believed to bring spiritual merit and blessings for a prosperous journey. After the visit, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Activities: Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress) Accommodation: Metta Resort & Spa or similar (3*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, drive to the parking area for Taktsang Monastery and begin the hike up to the famous Tiger's Nest. This monastery, Bhutan’s most famous, is perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century and meditated in a cave for three months, giving the monastery its name, "Tiger's Nest." Shrines have existed here for centuries, and the main temple of the current complex dates from 1692. The monastery was damaged by fire in 1951 and 1998 but has been fully restored. The hike through pine forest is steep and takes about five hours round trip, but the views along the way and from the cafeteria viewpoint make it worthwhile. After the visit, return to your hotel in Paro to relax or do some last-minute shopping. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide at a nearby restaurant. For extra relaxation, you may try a traditional hot stone bath at a local farmhouse. River rocks are heated and placed in a wooden tub, warming mineral-rich water infused with aromatic herbs known for their soothing and healing properties. The facilities are basic and rustic, but the experience offers a glimpse into a traditional Bhutanese practice. Activities: Visit Tiger's Nest Monastery Rustic Hot Stone Bath (optional) Accommodation: Resort Thim Dorji or similar (4*) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure flight. Meals included: Breakfast