This 36-day journey through Bhutan is a celebration of cultural depth, spiritual discovery, and alpine adventure. From tranquil valleys to cliffside monasteries, every day unfolds a new chapter in Bhutan’s timeless story. With the unforgettable Tiger’s Nest trek as its highlight, this itinerary blends immersive heritage experiences with serene landscapes and local hospitality—crafted for travelers seeking meaning and magnificence.
Duration: 36 Days / 35 Nights
Style: Cultural trekking & nature immersion
Highlights: Historic monasteries, Himalayan passes, authentic cuisine, local experiences, and untouched forest trails
You’ll explore sacred temples, hike to legendary mountain monasteries, and engage in traditional Bhutanese rituals. The itinerary includes visits to Paro’s iconic landmarks such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Kichu Lhakhang. Along the way, you’ll enjoy guided walks, cultural performances, and reflective moments in serene settings. Comfortable accommodation and nourishing meals round out the experience, ending with a farewell dinner steeped in Bhutanese tradition.
Welcome to Bhutan! Your guide greets you at Paro airport and ushers you toward one of the kingdom’s most scenic drives. Rising through pine forests, you reach Chelela Pass (3,810m) — Bhutan’s highest paved road — adorned with prayer flags and breathtaking views. Feel free to join your guide in the spirited Bhutanese exclamation “Lha-geh lu!” (“May the gods triumph!”).
After descending into the tranquil Haa Valley, settle into your heritage lodge and enjoy your first taste of Bhutanese flavors at a handpicked local restaurant — think red rice, yak cheese, and fiery ezay chili dip.
Stay: Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge or similar
Meals: Dinner
Today begins your Trans Bhutan Trail adventure! Starting from Katsho, follow a historic trading route once used to barter dried yak meat for rice across valleys. The trail snakes along the Haa Chhu River, passing yak herders and rhododendron forests.
Highlights en route:
Trek Stats:
14.3 km | 6–7 hrs
+895m / -1,245m
Max Altitude: 3,684m
Stay: Metta Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Included:
Begin with gentle trekking through Paro’s golden rice paddies and quiet hillsides. Stop at Dopshari village, where you’ll dive into Bhutan’s culinary arts with a hands-on cooking session featuring farm-fresh local ingredients.
Then, take part in an archery challenge — the nation’s beloved sport — and test your skills in a game of khuru, traditional darts. Wind down the day with scenic views over Paro Valley as you climb toward Upper Dopshari.
Trek Stats:
14.92 km | 7–8 hrs
+758m / -301m
Max Altitude: 2,830m
Stay: Metta Resort or similar
Included:
Today’s stretch dives into some of Bhutan’s most pristine woodland. Trek past reforestation areas, cascading streams, and hidden prayer sites. At Jelila Pass, stop for lunch before opting for a short detour to Jela Dzong, a historic shrine tied to mystical legends of protector deities.
Bird lovers, be on the lookout for colorful Himalayan species darting through blue pine and rhododendron canopy. Spend the evening under stars at a cozy forest campsite with warm organic meals and the whisper of mountain winds.
Trek Stats:
12.81 km | 7–8 hrs.
+770m / -812m
Max Altitude: 3,473m
Stay: Deluxe forest camp
Meals: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Included:
Final trek day begins with a climb to Pumola Pass (3,994m) — the highest point on the trail — where yak pastures ripple across alpine slopes. Take in majestic views before descending toward Bhutan’s capital via open ridgelines with sweeping views of the Thimphu Valley.
Your journey ends at the regal Buddha Dordenma, a 51-meter bronze statue guarding the valley. Its gleaming presence marks both a cultural milestone and the end of your sacred journey.
Trek Stats:
17.53 km | 7–8 hrs
+1,197m / -1,373m
Max Altitude: 3,994m
Stay: Tashi Yoedling Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast | Picnic Lunch | Dinner
Included:
Climb above tree line through forests and alpine scrub. Pass through a meadow with a mani wall and stream before ascending Tahung La (4,500 m). From this high vantage point, look west toward Kanchenjunga. Continue to Thombu Shong, a grassy yak pasture with herder huts.
Following breakfast, return to Buddha Dordenma and rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail. Before modern infrastructure, this section connected Thimphu with Punakha and the eastern districts. Begin descending into the Debsi Valley, cross a river by motor bridge, and pass through the old town of Babesa.
Your first landmark is Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest surviving fortress, built in 1629. Known for housing both administrative and monastic bodies, its architecture includes ornate murals, carvings, and a three-storey utse (central tower).
From Simtokha, the trail climbs gently through strawberry fields and market gardens before reaching Hongtsho. The day concludes with a vehicle transfer back to your hotel.
Trek Distance: 20 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +570 m
Elevation Loss: –399 m
Starting Elevation: 2,609 m
Ending Elevation: 2,780 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,780 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Tashi Yoedling or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, return to Hongtsho and ascend into dense forest and wide meadows. The trail reaches Dochula Pass at 3,100 m, a revered spiritual site marked by 108 chortens and used for prayer offerings. During clear seasons, sunrise reveals sweeping views of the Himalayan range.
Explore nearby meditation caves and the Druk Wangyal Chorten before descending into a forested valley. This stretch is known as the Divine Madman Trail, where Drukpa Kuenley once walked after arriving from Tibet in the 16th century.
Stop for a picnic lunch at Lumitsawa, and continue to Thinleygang Lhakhang, a historic temple. Upon arrival, settle into your campsite where dinner is prepared from fresh, organic ingredients.
Trek Distance: 12.88 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +436 m
Elevation Loss: –1,404 m
Starting Elevation: 2,780 m
Ending Elevation: 1,770 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,116 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a restful day in Punakha with a guided cultural immersion. Begin at Punakha Dzong, perched between two rivers, accessible by crossing Bazam Bridge in formal Bhutanese attire (gho for men, kora for women).
Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful. It houses sacred relics including the Rangjung Kharsapani and has withstood floods, fires, and invasions over centuries. It served as Bhutan’s capital until the 1950s and remains the winter seat of the monastic body.
Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s heritage or simply relaxing.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin today’s hike through golden paddy fields, climbing steadily to a hillside chorten that marks the day’s highest point. Stop for a picnic lunch with sweeping views before descending into Lingmukha Valley.
The final segment runs along a feeder road flanked by rice terraces. Visit Lingmukha Lhakhang, built by Terton Dorjee Lingpa who is said to have discovered sacred treasures in the area during the 4th century.
End the day at camp, where dinner is served using locally sourced produce.
Trek Distance: 12 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +948 m
Elevation Loss: –81 m
Starting Elevation: 1,288 m
Ending Elevation: 2,147 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,147 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin today’s hike by climbing from the depths of Lingmukha Valley toward a ridge-top rest stop. This section of trail was historically shared between the villages of Lingmukha and Phangyul, separated geographically but deeply connected by shared cultural roots.
Descend toward the Shar Valleys, taking in panoramic views. If time allows, visit Chungse Azhe Gyalzom Lhakhang, said to mark the spot where the Divine Madman’s thrown Chan-do stone landed. Continue to the village of Chungseykha for a traditional hot lunch.
The trail continues past hillside farming communities and the temple of Lhakhang Thangkha, believed to be one of the eight lings established by Kunkhyen Longchen Rabjam. Camp overnight in Samtengang, with dinner sourced from local organic ingredients.
Trek Distance: 13.85 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +935 m
Elevation Loss: –1,133 m
Starting Elevation: 2,147 m
Ending Elevation: 1,950 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,462 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today’s journey takes you along one of the most historically significant stretches of the trail, once used by messengers Garp Lunghi Khorlo and Pemi Tshewang Tashi. With no settlements along the route, the trail offers pristine solitude and connection with nature.
After an initial climb out of Samtengang, the path levels out before descending into Razawo Valley. Here, visit one of Bhutan’s oldest chortens, dating back to the era of Buddha Kashyapa.
Proceed to camp where a nourishing dinner awaits, prepared from local ingredients.
Trek Distance: 16.24 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +800 m
Elevation Loss: –855 m
Starting Elevation: 1,989 m
Ending Elevation: 1,934 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,798 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: No Meals Included
Leave Razawo following the river before climbing steadily toward Pelela Pass. The trail leads into open pasture and forests of walnut and oak en route to Rida village. Pause to visit the village temple, which houses a bronze statue of Sangay Tsepadme—the Buddha of Longevity. Legend holds it was crafted by a miraculous child gifted to an infertile couple.
Ascend further through rhododendron forest until reaching Pelela Pass at 3,413 m, traditionally marking the boundary between western and central Bhutan. Craftspeople often sell yak-hair goods here.
After a picnic lunch at the pass, descend to Longtey meadows and camp overnight.
Trek Distance: 15.7 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,488 m
Elevation Loss: –245 m
Starting Elevation: 1,934 m
Ending Elevation: 3,174 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,413 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today’s trail descends into meadows dotted with yak herder camps. Stop at a farmhouse in Rukubji for lunch, then visit the Kuenzang Choling temple, built some 300 years ago on the subdued form of a snake-demoness. Rukubji’s unique dialect, Ngyen-Kye, blends local languages with touches of English and is now spoken by only a few households.
After tea and conversation with villagers, return to the trail for a gentle forest climb before descending to Chendebji. Visit Chendebji Chorten, built where three ridges and three sky edges converge, said to pacify a local demoness.
Settle in at camp with another fresh and locally inspired meal.
Trek Distance: 16.04 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +249 m
Elevation Loss: –930 m
Starting Elevation: 3,174 m
Ending Elevation: 2,470 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,174 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Start the day at Chendebji Chorten, then follow the old highway before diverging into Bhutan’s countryside. Stop for a hot lunch in Tangsibji village.
Pass by several hydroelectric project sites, underscoring Bhutan’s commitment to renewable energy and its role as a carbon-negative nation. Visit Trashichoeling Lhakhang, built in 2002 as a tribute to Bhutan’s Fourth King.
Upon reaching Tshangkha, stop at the local temple built in 1701 by Choezang, Chamberlain of Trongsa. The temple was first blessed by Lopen Golay and remains central to community religious life.
Conclude the day with dinner at camp, prepared with organic ingredients.
Trek Distance: 22.52 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +316 m
Elevation Loss: –444 m
Starting Elevation: 2,470 m
Ending Elevation: 2,278 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,470 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Absolutely, Ugyen. Here’s the next segment, Days 17 to 21, crafted in the same structured and immersive style you’ve requested—clean formatting, detailed storytelling, and continuity throughout:
Start the day with a short, steep ascent out of Tshangkha, passing Ugyen Choling and Tsangkha Sheydra before descending to the National Highway at the Trongsa viewpoint. From this vantage, begin your descent into the Mangde Valley, recreating the age-old tradition of garps (messengers) arriving into Trongsa on foot.
Cross the cantilever bridge over the Mangde River and ascend into Trongsa Dzong via its western gate. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy a guided tour of the Dzong, which was originally established as a meditation space in 1541 and expanded over time into the country’s most strategic fortress.
With over 450 resident monks and 23 chapels, the Dzong is both spiritually and politically significant. Continue with a visit to the Ta Dzong, once a watchtower and now housing the Royal Heritage Museum.
End the day with a gradual ascent toward Kewathang for camp and dinner.
Trek Distance: 13.01 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +881 m
Elevation Loss: –773 m
Starting Elevation: 2,278 m
Ending Elevation: 2,374 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,435 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Kewathang and begin a steady climb toward Yotongla Pass, traveling through dense forests and changing ecological zones—a paradise for birdwatchers. After crossing the pass, enjoy a picnic lunch before descending into open meadows.
Follow the Geytsa River for a scenic riverside walk, eventually reaching Chuchi Lhakhang, believed by locals to be one of the 108 temples established across the Himalayas by King Songsten Gampo.
The day concludes with a warm dinner and relaxing stay at your hotel.
Trek Distance: 19.38 km
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,082 m
Elevation Loss: –571 m
Starting Elevation: 2,374 m
Ending Elevation: 2,889 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,427 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Chumey Nature Resort or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today’s route has historical significance, once used by Bhutan’s royalty traveling between Trongsa and Bumthang. Climb gradually through pine forests to reach Kikila Pass, intersecting briefly with the scenic Owl Trek.
From here, descend into the Bumthang Valley with magnificent views of Jakar Dzong, one of the region’s most prominent fortresses. Arrive at your hotel and unwind with dinner shared alongside your guide.
Trek Distance: 16.08 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +667 m
Elevation Loss: –976 m
Starting Elevation: 2,889 m
Ending Elevation: 2,580 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,421 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Yugharling Resort or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart from Jakar and head east through the vibrant town of Chamkhar. Climb toward Badhala, passing Lhodrak Karchu Dratsang, one of Bhutan’s most respected monasteries. Established in 1984, it is home to over 400 monks and features a grand assembly hall with revered statues of Guru Rinpoche.
Continue downhill toward Babzur village and make your way to Pema Choling Nunnery. Here, women study the Nyingma Peling tradition and perform the ritual “chod” drum ceremony.
Later, descend to Mebartsho—the Burning Lake—where treasure hunter Pema Lingpa is believed to have retrieved sacred relics from underwater while holding a lit lamp. Enjoy a riverside picnic before returning to your hotel.
Trek Distance: 14.39 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +673 m
Elevation Loss: –508 m
Starting Elevation: 2,580 m
Ending Elevation: 2,702 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,047 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Yugharling Resort or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Take a full day to rest and explore Jakar’s cultural and spiritual landmarks. Begin at Jakar Dzong—Castle of the White Bird—built in 1549 and a focal point of Eastern Bhutan’s defense and governance.
Next, visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, linked to the legend of 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songsten Gampo in a single day. The site hosts the unique Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival, featuring traditional dances including the Terchham (Naked Dance).
Continue into the valley to Kurjey Lhakhang, composed of three temples and built on a cave believed to bear the physical imprint of Guru Padmasambhava. The complex is one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites.
Return to your resort for a restful evening.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Yugharling Resort or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin the day heading southwest on the trail toward Ura. After a brief stretch along the old East-West highway, the route meanders into quiet countryside lined with buckwheat fields. Stop near the village of Tangsibi for a picnic lunch and a short rest.
Resume the hike with a climb along a series of switchbacks leading to Sheytangla Chorten. From this vantage, enjoy sweeping views across Ura Valley before descending into the village itself.
Trek Distance: 16.5 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +922 m
Elevation Loss: –473 m
Starting Elevation: 2,702 m
Ending Elevation: 3,150 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,492 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Local Farmhouse
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day with a visit to Ura Lhakhang, built in 1982 and housing a dramatic two-storey statue of Guru Rinpoche. According to local accounts, a copper statue within the temple is credited with warding off the spread of leprosy in the valley.
Continue your trek climbing toward Wangthangla Pass through Phrumsengla National Park, an ecological treasure home to red pandas, tigers, and endemic birds. After a scenic picnic lunch, descend into Gayzamchu Valley.
Your camp awaits near the river, complete with a hot shower and dinner sourced from local organic produce.
Trek Distance: 10.87 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: +912 m
Elevation Loss: –614 m
Starting Elevation: 3,150 m
Ending Elevation: 3,447 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,775 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a steep climb through rhododendron forests toward Thrimshingla Pass. The trail winds through one of Bhutan’s richest biodiversity zones—keep watch for red pandas and flitting birds overhead.
Stop for lunch amidst alpine scenery before descending into the valley below. Pass herders’ camps and thick forest en route to Sengor, where spectacular valley views await.
Camp overnight in Sengor, with another hot shower and locally prepared dinner to end the day.
Trek Distance: 12.7 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: +411 m
Elevation Loss: –807 m
Starting Elevation: 3,447 m
Ending Elevation: 2,982 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,691 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today’s trail descends gently through Sengor Valley and skirts Sengor Lhakhang, a historic temple believed to be built by the First Patseling Trulku Drubtob Namgyel Lhundrub in the 18th century.
The hike is shaded by rich forest and enlivened by the distant rush of Phangphangla waterfall. Cross three fords during the journey, with your guide monitoring water levels.
Arrive at Latongla for a restful night at camp. Enjoy a rejuvenating shower and a wholesome dinner amid the tranquil mountain setting.
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +289 m
Elevation Loss: –589 m
Starting Elevation: 2,982 m
Ending Elevation: 2,650 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,982 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Brace yourself for a major descent through dense forest as you leave Latongla behind. Today’s trail loses nearly 2,000 m in elevation, with dry-stone staircases offering a glimpse into the past when traders, pilgrims, and messengers used this bustling route.
Midway through the descent, explore the haunting ruins of Zhongar Dzong. Local legend holds its demise was the result of a curse from its architect, Zochhen Bala, who was killed by the King after completing the fortress. Some believe Bala still haunts the site in serpent form.
Finish your trek in Lingmithang Valley where the warmer climate signals your entry into Bhutan’s subtropical zones. Camp overnight with a hot shower and delicious dinner prepared with local ingredients.
Trek Distance: 14.7 km
Trek Duration: 9–10 hours
Elevation Gain: +111 m
Elevation Loss: –1,974 m
Starting Elevation: 2,650 m
Ending Elevation: 739 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,650 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Lingmithang and follow the East-West highway as it winds toward Kuri Zampa. Cross the Kuri River, then branch off into thick forest for a steep climb to Mongar. The ascent through subtropical vegetation offers a noticeable shift in climate and scenery.
On arrival in Mongar, take time to visit the Mongar Dzong. Built in 1930, this fortress is the administrative heart of the region and houses a monastic school for boys from rural communities. Explore the monastery courtyard and observe the intersection of governance and spiritual life.
Check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner with your guide at a local restaurant.
Trek Distance: 15.8 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,601 m
Elevation Loss: –191 m
Starting Elevation: 739 m
Ending Elevation: 1,601 m
Maximum Elevation: 1,601 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Wangchuk Hotel or similar (3-star)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin your ascent from Mongar to Korila Pass, passing through rural hamlets including Wengkhar and Themdangbi. The path winds gradually upward, offering views of forested slopes and distant ridgelines.
Stop at Wadipa Nye for a picnic lunch. This sacred site honors a moment in the 7th century when Guru Rinpoche was discovered meditating by a cowherd. Local folklore says touching a specific rock here may reveal animal fur—a sign of impending prosperity.
Camp near Korila with a warm shower and nourishing dinner prepared by your support crew.
Trek Distance: 11.01 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Elevation Gain: +889 m
Elevation Loss: –128 m
Starting Elevation: 1,600 m
Ending Elevation: 2,324 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,324 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin the day descending into the village of Ngatshang. Visit Jarong Khasor Stupa, notable for the bend in its lower structure said to have been caused by the resting of a spiritually impure body en route to Trashigang.
Continue the descent through lush subtropical forest to Sherizampa, where the surrounding vegetation reflects the shift in altitude.
Camp overnight in the village with the comforts of a hot shower and a freshly made organic dinner.
Trek Distance: 13.09 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +27 m
Elevation Loss: –1,528 m
Starting Elevation: 2,324 m
Ending Elevation: 882 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,324 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross an old suspension bridge and begin a forested climb through pine and lemongrass toward Baginla. Stop for lunch here before continuing upward to Drametse.
Visit Drametse Lhakhang, a 16th-century temple built by Ani Cheten Zangmo, granddaughter of Terton Pema Lingpa. She established this site while fleeing marriage, naming it “Drametse” meaning “peak without enemies.” The temple remains a central spiritual and cultural landmark for eastern Bhutan.
Camp in Drametse with a chance to unwind after a long climb.
Trek Distance: 11.77 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,291 m
Elevation Loss: –77 m
Starting Elevation: 882 m
Ending Elevation: 2,112 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,112 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Leave Drametse and begin a steep descent toward Bazur. Visit Bazur Lhakhang, which once served as a royal grain store before being restored to its temple status. Ascend a steep ridge to Narang for lunch.
From Narang, descend into Durung near the border of Mongar and Trashigang districts. Cross the river and visit Dongnga Choeling Lhakhang, a community temple surrounded by farmhouses and prayer flags.
Final ascent leads to Gongthung village. Visit Jarong Khashor Stupa, a Nepalese-style monument said to be built during a lama’s journey from Pemakhue in present-day Arunachal Pradesh.
Camp overnight with dinner prepared from fresh, local produce.
Trek Distance: 14.54 km
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,050 m
Elevation Loss: –1,337 m
Starting Elevation: 2,112 m
Ending Elevation: 1,781 m
Maximum Elevation: 2,112 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Deluxe Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart from camp for the final day of your Trans Bhutan Trail journey, having completed nearly 404 km over the past month. The trail leads downhill from the Jarong Khashor Stupa, descending through scattered mountain villages toward Chazam Bridge, which spans the Dangmechhu River.
Enjoy distant views of Trashigang Dzong, dramatically perched above the confluence of the Dangme and Gamri rivers. Upon crossing the bridge, check into your hotel before a guided visit to Trashigang Dzong. Built in 1659, this fortress was commissioned by Trongsa Penlop Minjur Tempa under the prophecy of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Legend tells of invading Tibetan forces retreating in fear at the sight of the Dzong’s formidable position.
Celebrate your accomplishment over dinner with your guide in Trashigang town.
Trek Distance: 7.01 km
Trek Duration: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: +334 m
Elevation Loss: –1,046 m
Starting Elevation: 1,781 m
Ending Elevation: 1,049 m
Maximum Elevation: 1,781 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: hotel or homestay
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day with a transfer to Yonphula Airport for the domestic flight to Paro.
Upon arrival, visit Ta Dzong, originally constructed in 1649 as a watchtower to defend Paro Dzong. Converted into Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968, it now displays a rich collection of paintings, relics, and historic artifacts.
Continue to Paro Rinpung Dzong, known as the “Fortress on a Heap of Jewels,” first built in the 15th century and beautifully restored in 1951 by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck to mark his royal wedding.
Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart your hotel after breakfast for a hike to Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage site. Located 900 meters above Paro Valley, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery clings to a cliff face, marking the spot where Guru Rinpoche is said to have arrived on the back of a flying tigress and meditated in a mountain cave for three months.
The trail begins with a gradual ascent through pine forest, passing a roadside chorten, prayer flags, and a small waterfall. After 2 to 3 hours of trekking, reach the viewpoint offering a dramatic photo opportunity, then continue to the temple complex.
Explore the meditation cave and chapels filled with murals, statues, chortens, and a holy spring. On the descent, you may wish to divert to Machig-phu Lhakhang before returning to the base.
Trek Distance: 9.15 km
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: ±724 m
Starting/Ending Elevation: 2,584 m
Maximum Elevation: 3,152 m
Included Activities:
Accommodation: hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin the morning with a visit to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, it houses sacred relics including the statue of Jowo Jamba. In the courtyard, the two orange trees are believed to bear fruit year-round. Later, stroll through Paro town for final shopping and reflection. Before returning to your hotel, treat yourself to a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, a soothing ritual using heated river stones to infuse medicinal herbs into the bath water. In the evening, celebrate the completion of your trek with a farewell dinner and cultural show hosted by your guide, featuring traditional Bhutanese music, food, and stories. Included Activities:
Accommodation: hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon with the blessings of the mountains at your back.
Meals: Breakfast
– International flights to and from Bhutan
– Personal drinks, bottled refreshments, and alcohol
– Gratuities for staff
– Expenses due to travel delays or unexpected disruptions
– Personal shopping or incidental expenses
For Trekking Days
– Rain-proof jacket and pants
– Warm layers suitable for mountain evenings
– Sturdy backpack with a waterproof cover
– 2 to 3-liter water storage bottles
– Wide-brim sun hat and UV-blocking sunglasses
– Optional trekking poles for stability
– Reliable waterproof trekking shoes
– Thermal gloves and insulated hat for colder altitudes
For Campsite Comfort
– Headlamp or flashlight with backup batteries
– Comfortable slip-on shoes for camp use
– Thermal base layers for cold nights
– Personal reading material or book
– Travel journal and writing supplies for notes or reflection
