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16 DAYS

3PARO-3DRUK PATH TREK – 2THIMPHU-2GANGTEY-2BUMTHANG-2PUNAKHA-1PARO

M3 Itineraries

Day 01

Arrive Paro, Transfer to Hotel & Explore

Attractions
01: Mountain Views
  • Mouth Everest
  • Kanchenjunga and Makalu
  • Jhomolhari
  • Jichu Drake
  • Tserimgang
02: Places and Temples
  • Rinpung Dzong

On a clear day, the flight to Paro is breathtaking, with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan’s own snowy peaks, the sacred Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. On arrival at Paro airport and after completion of airport formalities, you will be met by our M3 representative. Drive from Paro to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan and an exciting blend of tradition and modernity.

On arrival, check in hotel. (Overnight at hotel in Paro)

Day 02

Hike to Taktsang

4-5hours hike Up/Down

we are giving this hike before trek to adapt the altitude.

Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Taktsang Monastery

In the morning, take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest.  It is believed that Guru Rinpoche, founding father of the Bhutanese form of Mahayana Buddhism, arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery.  The main structure was severely damaged by fire in 1998, but after many years of painstaking restoration work, the complex has now been fully restored to its former glory.  Evening at leisure. (Overnight at hotel in Paro)

Day 03

Explore Paro valley

Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • National Museum
  • Paro Dzong
  • Kyichu Lhakhang

After Breakfast at hotel, you will visit the National Museum (Closed on govt holiday) where an intriguing collection of artifacts provide a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom. Just a short walk downhill lays the dominating Paro Dzong, a fine example of Bhutanese historic architecture. From the Dzong, the tours cross Nyamai Zampa, a traditional cantilever bridge and enjoy the beauty of the nature

 

Later visit Kyichu Lhakhang: This lhakhang, built in the 7th century, is one of the two oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan (the other being Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang). Kyichu Lhakhang is composed of twin temples.  The first temple was built by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. In 1968, H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, arranged for a second temple to be built alongside the first one, in same style. (Overnight at hotel in Paro)

DRUK PATH TREK/PARO - Thimphu (3N4D)

This route can also be called the “Black Regent’s Trail”. The father of 1st King –Trongsa Penlop Jigme Namgyal alais the “Black Regent” used this trails while trying to bring the Bhutanese rule under one hand. These trails were well used during his time. Through out the trail we see little Stupas and Cairns used as trail markers. At rest points there are always a house for night halts. In the absence of houses we find caves or a big tree under which the travelers take refuge. During the court of the 1st 2 Kings the Royal Runners have to complete the trips in minimum nights. It’s almost like a marathon run. The royal runners wear 2 sets of Kho, a sword, a dagger, a flint stone to light the fire & his wooden bowl. This makes the travel lighter using the Khos as sleeping bags at night. We will start at Ta Dzong (museum).The high light on this trek is the star watch at Jeli Dzong. Bhutanese important events are all checked with the stars such as birth, marriages, death, appointment of new posts, first day of school, business and anything… The star pattern changes every second. If run in April and May, it is great to watch the monal pheasants (an endangered species of bird in the Himalayas).

Day 04

Druk Path trek

Day 01: Paro - Jele Dzong
8km, 4-5hr

Altitude gain – 3503ft/1068m, Altitude loss – 269ft/82m

We meet our trek crew and the horses above the Ta Dzong. Today’s trek climbs non-stop over 1065m, before dropping down over 80km to camp. This is a major effort at this altitude, so take your time and drink as much as possible. The trail winds its way steeply through blue pine forest and around several farmhouses and fenced apple orchards.

After 1hr or so of steady climbing there will be nice views over the Paro valley. Visible above is Jele Dzong, located on top of the ridge and surprisingly nearby. At 9825ft/2995m, after 2hr trekking, the route passes a long mani wall in a big flat grassy field – a possible campsite but with poor water sources. Climb steadily up now through blue pine, fir and bamboo. The trail continues up through the forest. Just before reaching small pass (11,540ft/3518m) below the Dzong, the route opens up a bit. Tonight’s small campsite (11,270ft/3436m) is a little way down from the pass. It can be cold here because wind, which often picks up in the afternoon. You may be able to hear the monks playing instrument in the lhakhang during one of their prayer sessions.  (Overnight in camp)

Day 05

Druk Path Trek

Day 02: Jele Dzong – Jangchu Lhakhang
8km, 4-5hrs

Altitude gain – 1726ft, Altitude loss – 0ft/0m

From Camp, climb back to the ridge and the small pass leading to the dzong (11,790ft/3595m). The valley to the east of Jele Dzong is Gidakom. At the village of Gida is a hospital that traditionally treaded leprosy and tuberculosis. About halfway down this valley is forestry roads winds up and gets quite close to the Dzong. At the end of the valley are several lakes.

Leaving the Dzong walk north for about 10min on the ridge with the beautiful view before disappearing into forest, this looks rather bleak as a result of damage by bark beetles. Cross over to the easterly side of the ridge at 12,135ft/3700m). Go up and around a small peak, a steep 100m ascent to an altitude of 12,300ft/3750m). Looking back you see part of the Paro valley. To the south, the Dagala range is visible (another trekking area). After 3hr pass campsite Jangchu lhakhang is reached/3962m), is reached, just after a small saddle. (Overnight in camp)

Day 06

Druk Path Trek

Day 03: Jangchu Lhakhang – Simkota
15km, 6 hours

Today is an interesting walk through coniferous forests and then climb up to a pass with great views of the valleys below. On clear days you see great views of western peaks. As you go higher up we pass through fields of wild onions growing especially at the end of May-June. These onions are used very much in traditional medicine and we use some in our cooking on the treks too. We have some ups and down and we see other species of pheasants amongst the rhododendron bushes. Lots of other herbs used in medicines are also found in this region. At Jangchula pass 3880meters we see the Jimilangtso Lake to your right side. The well beaten path that leads into the mountains goes to Lingshi. To reach the camp, descend to the valley floor then to the lake. The lake has so many brown trout and for trekkers with fishing interests, it is advisable to bring their tackles. The legend says that farmers should keep their cows near the lake in summer so that the mystical ox would emerge from the lake and father the cows. If a cow gives birth to a beautiful, strong calf, then the farmers believe that the calf is the offspring of the lake ox. As a respect to the native’s belief we would request all the trekkers not to throw any trash in the lake to avoid catastrophe such as hail storm, rain or snow fall.  Little further, not much climbs is the Janetso Lake. (Overnight in camp)

Day 07

Druk Path Trek

Day 04: Simkota Tsho – Phajoding – Thimphu
10km, 5-6hr

Altitude gain – 755ft/230m, Altitude loss – 1330ft/405m)

The trail is good, but there are seven minor climbs to small passes before you finally look down to Phajoding monastery and Thimphu. Monks frequently pass here on their way to meditate at the sacred lake Jimilang Tsho.

When climbing up Bhutan Himalayas can be seen. From the pass, climb 250m up to a small rocky outlook (14,170ft/4320m) on the left side. It is covered with prayer flag, this place was formerly used for sky burials, and has an incredible view ober the whole of Bhutan Himalayas. After this excursion descend a little, then climb to pass (13,430ft/4095m), and is very windy. There is a good view over the last part of the trek: a steep descent to Phajoding monastery and finally Thimphu.  (Overnight in hotel in Thimphu) 

Day 08

Explore Thimphu valley

Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • National Memorial Chorten
  • Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre
  • Post Office
  • Institute for Zorig Chusum
  • National Library
  • Tashichho Dzong

Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world, is the seat of government. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil service, and foreign missions with representation in Bhutan. It is also the headquarters for a number of internationally funded development projects.

National Memorial Chorten. The building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had wanted to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”), and a monument to peace.

Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre: The private weaving centre frequently produces ceremonial textiles for Bhutanese royals, including the gho and kira (traditional attire) worn by the King and Queen for their marriage ceremony in October 2011. Visitors to the centre can watch weavers at work and interact with them.

Post Office, located in the heart of the town, is worth a visit. Here you will observe the different stamps available in Bhutan. You can also make personalized stamps with your pictures on it and take it as a souvenir or send a letter or a postcard to your family/friends with your picture on the stamp! (Closed on Sat 1 pm/ Sun / Govt. Holidays)

Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School) where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. (Open Mon-Fri 10 am-3:30 pm, Sat 10 am-12 pm, Closed on Sun & Govt. Holidays)

National Library: which holds a vast collection of Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion? (Open Mon – Fri 09 am – 04 pm, Closed on Sat, Sun & Govt. Holidays)

Later in the evening visit Tashichho Dzong: The “fortress of the glorious religion” was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichho Dzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during the Thimphu Tsechu (held in autumn) and while the monk body is resident in its winter quarters at Punakha Dzong.

In the evening, take a stroll along the town’s main street (Overnight at Hotel in Thimphu)

Day 09

Transfer to Gangtey Valley

5-6 hrs/130 Km
Attractions
01: Mountain Views
  • Masagang
  • Tsendegang
  • Terigang
  • Jejegangphugang
  • Kangphugang
  • Zongaphugang
  • Gangkar Puensum
02: Places and Temples
  • Gangtey/phobjikha valley
  • Crane Information Centre

After an early breakfast, you will set off for Phobjikha; driving up to Dochu-la pass (3,088 m/10,130 ft) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chortens, Mani walls, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road.  If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the northeast will be revealed in all their glory. On a clear day, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m) a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m.

Then continue onwards, reaching Wangduephodrang town in time for lunch. From here, it is a long, winding descent into the Wangduephodrang valley, which is about 1,700m below the pass. Continuing on the highway, we follow the scenic Dang Chhu before climbing thru forests of bamboo and oak, and just before crossing the Pele La pass, enroute Radak Shang Temple and finally you will find the hidden Phobjikha Valley. Gangtey/phobjikha valley is considered one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Bhutan (3000 m/9800 ft). The area is best known as the home of the rare Black-necked Cranes that migrate to Bhutan from Tibet in Nov and leave by March, and thus is a protected area for wildlife. On arrival visit the Crane Information Centre to learn more about these elegant and shy birds.

(Overnight at hotel/farm house in Gangtey)

Day 10

Explore Gangtey Natural

1.5 Hrs /Easy walk
Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Gangtey Goempa Monastery
  • Gangtey Natural Trail
  • Khewa Lhakhang

After breakfast Visit the 16th century Gangtey Goempa Monastery perched on a hill that rises above the valley floor making it a landmark for the valley. It is the central seat of the Pedling tradition of Buddhism in Western Bhutan, and was built as a centre of spiritual teaching.

After the visit; explore the Gangtey Natural Trail, considered as the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trails in Bhutan. The trail hike starts from the mani (like Chorten) stone wall to the north of the Gangtey Gonpa and ends in Khewa Lhakhang. The hike takes about 1.5 hrs. Starting from the Prayer-wall on the northern side of Gangtey monastery, the trail leads down towards a sloping area of green grass, flanked by pine trees on either side.  At this point the Semchubara village should be visible on the opposite side, at roughly the same height.  The path continues to descend until it crosses a river, called the Bara Chhu.  The loud babbling of the Bara Chhu River meets the silent meandering Nake Chhu River. After the Bara Chhu Bridge, the trail passes through the lower parts of the Bara village and by a lonely chorten/stupa.  Here you will have a good view of Bara village on your left and Gangtey monastery to your right. As you reach Semchubara village, there is a small shed for resting below the trail. Walking further from there, you reach the edge of the wetland where the Cranes roost in the winter. After few minutes’ walk you are opposite to the crane information centre. Continue walking and you will reach Khewang Lhakhang, which makes an interesting visit and provides additional insight into the religious and cultural history of Phobjikha/Gangtey Valley.

Afternoon at leisure or if you would like to further explore the valley on foot you may do so.

(Overnight at hotel/farm house in Gangtey)

Day 11

Phobjikha/ Gangtey – Jakar/ Bumthang

6-7 hr drive/188 kms
Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Trongsa Dzong
  • Trongsa Ta Dzong
  • Trongsa Museum
  • Chhume Valley

The journey today takes you via Trongsa and onwards to Jakar/Bumthang. The initial part of the drive takes you across the Black Mountain Range that divides western and central Bhutan. You will drive up winding mountain roads through oak and rhododendron forest and across the Pele-la pass (3,300m), the traditional boundary between east and west. The pass is marked by a large white chorten and prayer flags. There is an abrupt change in vegetation at this point, with mountain forest replaced by high altitude dwarf bamboo.

As you continue towards Trongsa town, the impressive Trongsa dzong (fortress) stretched along a ridge above a ravine first comes into view about an hour before the winding road suddenly leads you into the town. Enroute in Trongsa, visit Trongsa Museum on the hillside above the town, built as a watchtower to guard Trongsa. You will enjoy the trip as you work your way around this quaint watchtower and discover the history of the Monarchs through the numerous artefacts displayed here. Lunch is served enroute. From here it is about a 3 hour drive to Bumthang over the picturesque Yotong-la Pass (3,400m). The road winds steeply up to the pass, then runs down through coniferous forest into a wide, open, cultivated valley known as the Chumey valley and into Jakar town.

Lunch is served enroute. There will be occasional breaks along the journey to stretch your legs and take pictures. Rest of the day at leisure. (Overnight at Hotel in Jakar/Bumthang)

Day 12

Peseling Monastery Hike

3.5 - 4 hrs/ Moderate Walk
Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Peseling monastery
  • Jambey Lhakhang
  • Kurje Lhakhang

After breakfast you will hike to Peseling monastery. This monastery was established by the first Peseling Tulku Siddha Namgyal Lhendub in 1769. A 2.5 hour steep climb from the valley, the monastery is home to around 25 monks. It is located on a steep incline. It offers fine panoramic views of the central Bumthang valley. It is a beautiful walk through a mix of forest, meadows and villages, and you are rewarded with great views.

Afternoon visit Jambay Lhakhang which was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo (one of the oldest temples, the other being Kichu in Paro). Then continue to Kurjey Lhakhang, heading further into the valley through farmlands for half an hour. Kurjey Lhakhang comprises three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 against the rock face where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. The middle temple is built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of the Guru’s body, and is therefore considered to be the most holy.

(Overnight at Hotel in Jakar/Bumthang)

Day 13

Jakar/Bumthang – Punakha

6hrs/172kms
Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Yatra weaving
  • Chendebji Chorten
  • Pho Chu and Mo Chu

Today’s journey back to Punakha will be a lengthy one. We will then drive on through the mountains and down to Punakha back tracking on the same highway travelled earlier.

 

Enroute stop by Chhume Valley, home to Bhutan’s famous Yatra weaving done on a handloom using sheep wool both of which are unique to this region. Here you will have a chance to browse the traditional textiles and perhaps see the weavers create their intricate patterns. Continue to Punakha passing through Yotong-la Pass (3,400m) and then Trongsa town. Stop en route at Chendebji Chorten, patterned on Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath Stupa, with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. It was built in the 18th century by Lama Shida from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was subdued at this spot. Continue to Punakha passing through Pele-la pass (3,300m).

Lunch is served enroute. There will be occasional breaks along the journey to stretch your legs and take pictures. Check-in at the hotel. (Overnight at Hotel in Punakha)

Day 14

Explore Punakha valley, Punakha

6hrs/172kms
Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten
  • Rafting in Punakha Mo chu
  • Punakha Dzong

Punakha is a low-lying subtropical valley known as the rice bowl of Bhutan. The warm climate allows for two rice harvests a year.  Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and is still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and central monk body.

In the morning visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten: This three storey chorten/stupa was built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Tsering Yangdon Wangchuck for the protection of the country. It has an impressive view of Punakha dzong especially when driving back to Punakha. The chorten is a half hour walk from the main road through paddy fields.

Then proceed to the bank of the Mochu River to prep for the rafting trip. Enjoy a few hours of rafting.

Rafting in Punakha Mo chu (female) river USD 350 (1-5 pax) and USD 60 per additional pax

In the afternoon visit Punakha Dzong, Placed strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Dzong was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative center of the region. Damaged over the centuries by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the dzong has been fully restored in recent years by the present monarch.  The dzong is open for visitors during the Punakha festival (early spring) and in the summer months, after the monk body has returned to Thimphu. Return to the hotel.  (Overnight at Hotel in Punakha)  

Day 15

Transfer to Paro Valley & explore

4 hrs/130 kms
Attractions
01: Places and Temples
  • Tachogang Temple
  • Traditional farmhouse
  • Rinpung Dzong

After breakfast depart to Paro. once again cross over Dochu-la mountain pass (3,088m/10,130ft).

Paro,This beautiful valley encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends.  It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the country’s only airport, and the National Museum. Mt. Chomolhari (7,300 m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley, its glacial waters plunging through deep gorges to form the Pa Chu (Paro River). The Paro valley is one of the kingdom’s most fertile, producing the bulk of Bhutan’s famous red rice from its terraced fields.

On the way you walk to Tachogang Temple. This temple is important because the man who taught building Iron-chain bridges lived here in the 15th century. We will actually walk over the bridge that was restored with the pieces iron-chain collected from across the country. So here we will get to compare the art of building wooden cantilever bridge to iron-chain bridges. Then continue to Paro.

In the evening drive back to Paro and visit a Traditional farmhouse for an opportunity to interact with a local family and learn something of their lifestyle. Later, take a stroll along the main street for a few handicrafts shops. (Overnight at hotel in Paro)

Day 16

International Departure

After an early breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination. 

Cautionary Note:

Please note that some of the sights/itinerary may change due to season, weather, national holidays, and special events. We maintain the rights to alter the itinerary since tours are made in advance and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve your overall travel experience in Bhutan

Due to the ongoing up-gradation of the only national highway (west-east: Punakha, Gangtey, Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar, Trashigang, Samdrup Jongkhar), there may be delays in transfer time/ arrival time due to poor road conditions, road closures, inclement weather and other unforeseen circumstances. During your journey, you may encounter areas of degraded roads, a bumpy ride, traffic jams, dusty conditions and road closures – we do apologize for the inconveniences.

The driving and hiking times mentioned are approximate times and do not include breaks in the journey for sightseeing, photo/tea/meal/rest stops. During the treks/hikes, there may be delays or diversion of hiking trails due to trail conditions, inclement weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Please note that some of the sights/itinerary may change due to season, weather, national holidays, and special events. We maintain the rights to alter the itinerary since tours are made in advance and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve your overall travel experience in Bhutan