Compare Bhutan Cultural Journey by World Expeditions vs Bhutan Expedition: Hike the Trans Bhutan Trail by Intrepid Travel

Day 1 Join Paro (2200m)

After clearing customs and immigration in Paro, you'll be met by our group leader. There's time to freshen up and have lunch before heading out to hike to Zuri Dzong (2,600m). This scenic small hike to the Dzong will serve as an acclimitization walk as offer a glimpse into the beautiful landscapes of Bhutan. After the hike, we check into the hotel for a trip briefing and a welcome dinner. Overnight: Hotel Drukchen or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 2 Drive to Haa Valley (70km; 3hrs)

After breakfast we drive towards the Haa valley via Chele La Pass, the highest motorable road in Bhutan. Before making it to Chelela, we visit Kila Gompa Nunnery, reputedly the oldest nunnery in Bhutan consisting of a series of buildings pressed against the cliffs. Around 50 nuns pursue higher Buddhist college studies here. We then embark on a scenic 1.5-2hr hike to Chele La, passing serene forests, chortens and fluttering prayer flags. Our transport will pick us up from the pass and transfer us to the below valley of Haa. Arriving at Haa, we visist Lhakhang Karpo & Nakpo, established in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo in his missiong to build 108 temples in one day to pin down the giant ogress who was obstructing against the spread of Buddhism in the Himalayan region. Lhakhang Karpo has been renovated recently and also hosts the annual Haa Tshechu. A short distance away is Lhakhang Nakpo, where it is believed a hidden lake is below the shrine. There is an opportunity to stroll down the small town of Haa and its one-street town. We check into our heritage lodge and its traditional architecture. Try the hot stone baths that are renowned in Bhutan. Overnight: Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 3 Drive to Gangtey (6hrs)

After breakfast we drive to Gangtey (approx. 6 hrs drive), which is a wide and beautiful valley the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo, designated as conservation zone within the Jigme Singye Wangchuk National. It is a natural habitat for wildlife, including nesting grounds for endangered black-necked cranes that migrate from Central Asia in the winter (late October and stay till March). We visit the Crane Centre created to provide information on this elusive species. Overnight: Hotel Dewachen or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 4 Explore Gangtey

After breakfast at leisure, drive up to visit the Gangtey Monastery on a forested hill overlooking the green expanse of the entire Phobjikha valley. Black neck cranes circle this monastery before landing in the valley and taking off for Tibet in February end for 110 km non-stop journey. From this monastery, we embark on a hike (approx 2hrs) starting by the Mani stone wall, through pine and bamboo forests and ends in Khewa Lhakhang. Views over the Phobhikha Valley and wetlands are endless and breathtaking. Overnight: Hotel Dewachen or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 5 Drive to Bumthang (68km, 4-5hrs)

Today we cross the Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain range towards Trongsa. Enroute we pass the beautiful 18th century Chendebji Chorten, erected to subdue harmful, anti-religious demons. Upon arriving at Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan's ruling dynasty. After lunch we visit the Ta Dzong Museum that houses a rare collection of historical artifacts belonging to the Royal Family. We continue to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan and stop at Zungney village mid way. Bhutan is well known for their bright coloured wooled fabrics known as Yathra and we will visit a factory where ladies weave these vibrant fabrics in different patterns and shapes. Overnight: Rinchenling Lodge or similiar

meals : B,L,D

Day 6 Explore Bumthang

Legend has it that throughout the Buddhist Himalayas, valleys hidden from the outside world exist. Sheltered and protected, together these regions could become the last bastions of traditional Tibetan Buddhism. Shangri-La in James Hilton's Lost Horizons is based on this very idea. There remain few places more suited than Bumthang, Bhutan's spiritual heartland, to stand as symbols of such ideals. We will be dropped off at Jambay Lhakhang, from where we still start our sightseeing tour on foot. Jambay Lhakhang was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, on the same day as the Kyichu temple in Paro. This temple has been repaired and rebuilt several times of the year and is of significance to Buddhist tales. On our hike, we also visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang and the Kenchosum Lhakhang - all traditional temples that have been preserved and restored. We end the day with a visit to the Swiss Cheese Factory. Taste the local cheese and try Panda beer, produced by the Swiss Brewery. Overnight: Rinchenling Lodge or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 7 Bumthang - Tang Valley

Tang is the most remote of Bumthang's valleys with not as much agriculture as the valley below, although in places where the soil is fertile and deep the Arcadian scenes are picture perfect. Terton Pema Lingpa the famous saint responsible for discovering many treasures as prophesized by Guru Rimpoche was born in this valley. The people of this valley raise sheep and at higher elevation, yaks. We visit the Ogyencholing Museum that was restored in the 19th Century. This museum offers a glimpse into history with exhibits that capture the ambiance and lifestyle of the former Governor. In the afternoon we start a hike on the ancient trails of local merchants and traders. We cross Baetely La (pass) at 2900m and end at the famous Kharchu Dratsang where our car will drive us to the hotel. Overnight: Rinchenling Lodge or similiar

meals : B,L,D

Day 8 To Punakha (6hrs)

Today we will head to the warmer valley of Punakha. Visit the village of Lobesa where a short walk ends at Chimi Lhakhang, the auspicious fertility monastery built in 1499. We will also visit the impressive Punakha Dzong - a fortress monastery which acts as the winter residence of the monastic order’s head, with numerous rooms and grand courtyards to be explored. Overnight: Meri Puensum Resort or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 9 Drive to Thimphu

After breakfast we commence the drive towards Thimphu, the nation's capital. Thimphu is the largest city with a population of 1.2m and also without traffic lights! It is home to the Government, royal family and has an interesting mix of Himalayan and western influence. Later in the afternoon, we visit the tallest sitting statue of Buddha Dodenma (52m). This statue fulfills an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th Century A.D of emanating an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. We also visit the Jungshi paper making factory where you can observe the traditional process of producing hand made paper passed down through generations. This type of paper was originally used by monasteries for manuscript books and writing prayer books. This factory continues to preserve and promote this ancient tradition.

meals : B,L,D

Day 10 Morning hike to Cheri Monastery

This morning, we will drive for 45 minutes to the start of the hike to Cheri Monastery (about 2hrs walk return). This monastery was established in 1620 and is now a major centre for the Drukapy Kagyud sect of Buddhism, the state religion. This significant site serves a monastic school for the study of Buddhist philosophy, metaphysics, mathematics, poetry and other Buddhist studies. After a riverside lunch, we return to town (45 minutes) to visit National Institute for Zorig Chusum (painting school), where students are taught the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. We conclude the day by visiting the Royal Textile Academy which displays the significance of textile weaving as an important component of Bhutanese culture and tradition.

meals : B,L,D

Day 11 Drive to Paro

After a morning of exploring the town, we drive to Paro. In the evening head out to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a contemporary of Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang. Legend says that a giant demoness lays across the whole area of Tibet and the Himalayas and was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. So in order to control her, King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet is believed to have built 108 temples which are places on all points of her body. Kichu Lhakhang was one of the 108 monasteries (pinning her left sole of the feet). Overnight: Hotel Drukchen to similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 12 In Paro, visit Tigers Nest Monastery

We drive to the foot of the Taktsang Monastery - the famous Tigers Nest Monastery (3120m) said to have been one of the divine resting places of the Guru Ringpoche. This Monastery was blessed and sanctified as one of Bhutan’s most sacred religious sites. It hangs on a cliff and stands above a beautiful forest of blue pine and rhododendrons at 10,000 ft. Today Paro Taktsang is the most sacred site for pilgrimage for Buddhists around the world and a special hiking place. The main street, only built in 1985, is lined with colorfully painted wooden shop fronts and restaurants and handicrafts for souvenirs. Paro remains one of the best Bhutanese towns to explore on foot and is worth an hour or two's stroll at the end of a day of sightseeing. Overnight: Hotel Drukchen to similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 13 Trip concludes

After breakfast our trip concludes with a transfer to the airport for onward arrangements.

meals : B

Day 1 Paro - Thimphu

Welcome to Paro International Airport! You will be greeted by your guide at the arrival gate and transferred by private vehicle to Thimphu, Bhutan’s Capital city. Along the way, stop at the Tachogang Lhakhang temple which was founded by Thankthong Gyelpo, a man who is revered in Tibetan and Bhutanese culture, and see some of his belongings inside this sacred place. After visiting the temple, continue to Thimphu and check into your hotel where you’ll have time to freshen up before joining your leader for an orientation walk to get acquainted with Thimphu’s highlights. Tonight, head off with your leader and group for an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant and learn about the rich history of Bhutanese cuisine as you tuck into a traditional feast, including seasonal vegetables and the country’s signature dish – red rice with a tasty chili cheese.

Day 2 Thimphu

After breakfast, embark on the Buddha Point Park Hike which will start from Debsi towards Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang) home to the country’s largest Buddha statue. The Buddha Dordenma is located atop a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. Hikers can enjoy the panoramic view of the Thimphu Valley and enjoy the hike amidst fluttering colorful prayer flags and the beautiful sky while heading up the hill. After visiting Buddha Point, you will continue the hike inside the park to Changangkha. After lunch, visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum, more commonly known as the Arts & Crafts School or Painting School, where you can watch students learning traditional artistic skills. At the National Library, you’ll see printing blocks for prayer flags and many beautiful archaic texts.

Day 3 Lobesa

After breakfast, travel along the Dochula Pass which sits more than 3000 metres above sea level and is marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten and fluttering prayer flags. If the weather is clear, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas as you hike along this scenic trail. This afternoon, you’ll visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang a temple that was built in honour of the fourth King Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuk and celebrates the 100th anniversary of the monarchy in Bhutan. After visiting the temple, you’ll travel down to the valley and hike a section of the trail known as the Divine Madman Trail. It is believed that Drukpa Kuenley, who is also known as the Divine Madman, came here from Tibet to overpower evil spirits. After a stop for lunch in the beautiful village of Lumitsawa, you’ll continue walking until Thinleygang Lhakhang temple. Visit Thinleygang Lhakhang temple before driving to your hotel in Lobesa.

Day 4 Trongsa

After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll drive to Pelela Pass and re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail at the boundary between western and central Bhutan and begin your hike. Along the way, visit the Rukubji Lhakhang temple and rest a while with your group as you share a delicious hot lunch prepared by the locals. Afterwards, transfer by vehicle to the beautiful village of Chendebji which is home to the Chendebji Chorten. If you’ve been to Kathmandu in Nepal, this large white structure might look familiar as it was built to resemble the famous Bouddhanath Stupa of Kathmandu. From Chendebji, you’ll continue to Trongsa and visit the Trongsa Dzong which is the largest and most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. Located on a cliff overlooking the Mangde Chu river gorge, this Dzong is a magnificent sight. After you’ve enjoyed the view, check into your hotel where you may like to enjoy a relaxing evening after a full day of exploring.

Day 5 Bumthang

If your group didn’t have time to visit Trongsa Dzong yesterday, there’s time for a visit this morning before the drive to Yotongla Pass where you’ll re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail and immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of Bhutan. After hiking over the pass, you’ll descend through green meadows and open forest until you reach the serene Gyaltsa River. After you’ve had a rest, follow this pristine river until you reach Gyaltsa Village where your private transfer to Bumthang will be waiting. You won’t go hungry on this full day of walking as the group will stop to enjoy a delicious lunch along the trail. On arrival in Bumthang, check into your hotel for the next two nights. After checking into the hotel, head out for a visit of Bumthang Brewery, producers of Bhutan’s celebrated Red Panda Beer. Nearby is Bhutan’s only commercial cheese factory. Both the brewery and the cheese factory are legacies of a Swiss-run development project called Swiss Farm, which introduced distinctive European farming and production techniques into the Bumthang area. 

Day 6 Bumthang

After breakfast, begin your day with an excursion to the luscious yet secluded Tang Valley. You'll have time to take in the splendor of this tranquil location, which is home to sacred shrines, herds of yaks, and verdant hillsides dotted with grazing sheep. After reaching Tang village, you start a short hike crossing the suspension bridge towards the century old Ugyensholing Heritage Museum. After visiting the museum, you drive to Pema Choling Nunnery where women and girls who enroll here follow a nine-year course in the Nyingma Peling Buddhist tradition and are known for a particular drum ceremony known as “chod”. After visiting the nunnery, head south along the Trans Bhutan Trail towards the sacred Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), where, in the 15th century, the great treasure hunter Pema Lingpa is said to have discovered several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures. Take time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings and consider engaging in some meditation, as many locals do. You will continue the second half of the hike by climbing gently through the forest and reach another small, beautiful village of Phomrong. Our vehicle will be waiting for us in Phomrong to transfer us back to the hotel.

Day 7 Punakha

Today you will head back to Punakha via Trongsa to walk along one of the most iconic sections of the Trans Bhutan Trail and recreate what it was like for those arriving in the city of Trongsa on foot many years ago. Drive to Trongsa. Your hike starts from Trongsa Dzong, you’ll descend until the Mangde River. After crossing the old cantilever bridge over the river, stretch your legs for a steep climb through the forest until the Trongsa viewpoint. After some rest and spending some time at the viewpoint, sit back and relax on the drive to Punakha where you will check into your hotel.

Day 8 Paro

After breakfast, drive to Dochulla Pass from where we will start our hike to Simtokha. Throughout the hike, we are treated to a scenic path that runs alongside charming villages and meandering streams, granting us unique glimpses into Bhutanese life and culture. Prepare yourself for one of the longest hours hikes of this trip. After reaching Simtokha, you’ll drive to Paro. Check-in to the hotel and relax for the rest of the evening.

Day 9 Paro

After breakfast, you’ll re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail for a short hike. Drive up to Tsendona. From here, you’ll hike through the thin pine forests to the upper reaches of Dopshari and enjoy the spectacular views over the Paro valley. Take time to enjoy the scenery before reaching the traditional village of Dopshari. Enjoy a delicious hot lunch in the village where you might have the opportunity to try Ema Datshi, a traditional Bhutanese dish made with chili peppers, onions, and yak cheese. After the hike, you’ll visit Ta Dzong which was originally built as a watchtower but now houses a National Museum. Join your leader for a tour of the extensive collection of antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons, armour, household objects and historic artifacts. After you have visited the museum, stroll around the local market of Paro. Drive back to the hotel and take a rest for tomorrow’s another big day.

Day 10 Paro

After breakfast, lace up your hiking boots and set off on a 5 hour hike to the Taktshang Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most famous monasteries. Perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor, it’s also known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site is considered to be a deeply sacred place and is visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of the building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour. Along the way, you’ll also visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. This is one of the country’s most famous temples as it marks the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. After you’ve returned to your hotel and had time to freshen up, join your leader for a stroll around the streets and market area of Paro.

Day 11 Paro

After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, your adventure will come to an end and your driver will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your flight out of Bhutan.