Explore Trans Bhutan Trail Journey

Flying into Bhutan offers unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayan ranges, featuring iconic peaks such as Mt. Everest (8,848m/29,028ft), Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft), and Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,564m/24,836ft). On arrival we meet you at Paro International Airport after clearing your immigration and customs formalities. We'll then transfer you to your hotel in Paro for check-in. Paro is renowned for its iconic landmarks, including the famous Taktshang Monastery, also referred to as Tiger’s Nest, and serves as a hub for Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. Time permitting, we drive to Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower situated around 6-km from Paro town, which has now been repurposed as the National Museum of Bhutan. From here, embark on a short hike to Zuri Dzong, an ancient fortress in Paro dating back to 1352, houses the valley’s guardian, Zaa (Rahulla). Accessed via a small bridge, the trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paro valley. The hike, about 1.5 hours from the National Museum Watchtower or an hour from Uma Paro Resort, winds through cypress and pine trees, providing a leisurely stroll amidst stunning scenery. Enjoy a delightful evening with the Bhutan Green Travel, featuring a warm welcome drink and a dinner to kickstart your journey in style. Overnight in Paro.

This morning, we venture onto the Trans Bhutan Trail (4-km/2 hours) once again. Our path leads us eastward from Lamgong Village, ascending gradually through a steady incline following the northern ridge of the valley before descending to the village of Dopshari. You will be enchanted by the picturesque emerald, green terraces and traverse the scenic rice paddies that characterize the Paro valley until you arrive at the charming traditional village of Dopshari. Enjoy a delightful hot lunch in the village, where you'll have the chance to sample Ema Datshi, a quintessential Bhutanese dish featuring chilli peppers, onions, and cow cheese. After experiencing village life, hike to Dop Shari's upper regions for stunning panoramas of the Paro Valley. Enjoy the natural beauty before returning to your hotel in Paro to end the day.

Bhutan’s famous Paro Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is an unforgettable sight. No visit to Bhutan would be complete without a trip to Paro Taktshang (3,120m). The monastery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, 900m above the Paro floor valley. The hike (4-km) starts at the base of the mountain from the road point at Ramthangkha, 12-km from the Paro town. Expect a walking duration of around 4-5 hours for the complete round-trip hike, along with an additional hour allocated for touring the monastery at a comfortable pace. Gentle horse or pony rides are offered as a transport option halfway up the trail. Gentle horse/pony rides are available for transport halfway up the trail, where you will be treated to a breathtaking vantage point showcasing the monastery perched on the cliff wall. The latter part of the afternoon is free for leisure. Consider indulging in a hot stone bath at a farmhouse for a relaxing experience. Spend the night in Paro.

Today, we commence our journey to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, home to approximately 138,736 inhabitants. En route, we'll stop at the historically significant 13th century Tachog Lhakhang, a revered temple built by Saint Dupthop Thangtong Gyalpo, known for his expertise in building iron bridges. Continuing our journey, we traverse through Chhuzom (24-km), a vital crossroads linking Thimphu (30-km) northeast, Haa (82-km) southwest, and Phuentsholing (141-km) south. Arrive in Thimphu and tour the monumental Kuenselphodrang, home to the world's largest 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue, erected in 2006 on a hill overlooking Thimphu's southern entrance. Our next stop is at the Motithang Takin Reserve, home to Bhutan's national animal. Next, proceed to Sangaygang Hill, located near the Bhutan Broadcasting Service Tower, to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Thimphu Valley. From Sangaygang, embark on a gentle hike (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours) through a serene pine forest to reach the Wangditse Gonpa. After exploring this peaceful site, descend to the Dechen Phodrang Monastic School, where your transport will be waiting. If time permits, visit the iconic Tashichhodzong, originally built in 1216 and later reconstructed in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This majestic fortress serves as the seat of several government ministries, the office and throne room of His Majesty the King, and the Central Monk Body. If time permits, visit the newly inaugurated Changyul Park in Changzamtog, Thimphu, opened on 23 August 2024. Spanning seven acres along the Wangchhu River, the park features meadows, a riverside gallery, a community hub, an adventure play area, an outdoor gym, an arboretum, a rose garden, and riverfront amenities. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

After breakfast, we leave Thimphu and set off on a 19-kilometer journey to Dochula Pass, which takes about 45 minutes. At an elevation of 3,050m, Dochula Pass offers stunning views and is home to the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. If weather permits, this spot provides awe-inspiring panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s highest, Mount Gangkar Puensum, towering at 7,564 meters. Starting from Dochula, the Trans Bhutan Trail (13.7 km/5 hr) meanders into the neighbouring valley, leading you through conifer and warm broadleaf forests along a picturesque stretch dubbed the ‘Divine Madman Trail.’ According to legend, Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman, journeyed from Tibet to tame malevolent spirits here. Following a lunch break in the scenic village of Thinleygang, you'll visit Thinleygang Lhakhang temple, now a monastery school. Descend into the lower valley, passing by farms and crossing a suspension bridge to reach Toeb Chandana. Here, you can explore the nearby Chandana Lakhang, built to sanctify the area and ward off an evil presence. After your visit, bid farewell to Toeb Chandana and begin the ascent towards Sew Drangsa. In recent years, this route has occasionally been used by the central monastic body to travel to its winter residence in Punakha and return to Thimphu in the summer. At Sew Drangsa, you’ll find a clearing adorned with prayer flags, where monks traditionally stop for lunch en route, as you will do today. From this point, the trail descends towards Punakha Dzong (fortress), offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley along the way. Your driver will then escort you to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Punakha.

Morning sightseeing includes a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple located on a hill near Sopsokha village. Built in 1499 by Saint Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman, this sacred site is believed to bless childless couples from Bhutan and beyond, granting them children. We’ll then drive to the scenic Phobjikha Valley (2,900 m) via Nobding, a small town along the way. The journey passes by the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, originally built in 1638 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The dzong, which resembles a sleeping elephant, suffered fire damage in 2012 but was fully restored to its former glory in November 2022. Phobjikha Valley is a haven for nature lovers and serves as the winter habitat for the rare, Black-Necked Cranes that migrate from the Tibetan Plateau between late October and mid-March. We’ll also visit the 17th century Gangtey Gonpa, a monastery perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of the valley. It is the only Nyingmapa School of Buddhism in western Bhutan. Take time to explore the valley, interact with locals, and visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre to learn more about these remarkable migratory birds. Overnight stay in Phobjikha.

After breakfast, we head east towards the Pelela Pass (3,390m), the traditional boundary between west and central Bhutan. Along the East–West Highway, yaks often graze by the roadside, and local craftspeople sell fine yak-hair products. At Pelela, we re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail for an 8.98-km trek (3 to 4 hours). Descending through meadows, watch for secluded yak herder camps scattered across the valley. We pause in the village of Rukubji for a traditional farmhouse lunch and visit the Kuenzang Choling Lhakhang, a temple uniquely located on a plateau near two rivers. Rukubji is known for its rare local dialect, Ngyen-Kye, which blends Bhutanese dialects with English words but is now spoken by only a few households. Engage with villagers over tea to learn about this linguistic heritage. From Rukubji, we drive about an hour to Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s Royal Family and the birthplace of its constitutional monarchy. Trongsa Dzong, the former seat of the Trongsa Penlop (Governor), holds great historical significance as all Bhutanese kings serve as Penlop before ascending the throne. On the way take a stroll along the Chendebji Chorten below the road. A nice stop to stretch your legs and walk around the stupa! This 18th century monument resembles the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. A highlight awaits at the Thumangdra viewpoint, offering a perfect vantage to capture breathtaking photos showcasing the scenic beauty of the landscapes and the grandeur of the dzong. Overnight stay in Trongsa.

Our day begins with morning sightseeing, as we explore the historical sites including the massive and majestic architectural masterpiece of the Trongsa Dzong with a distinctive yellow roof. It is the largest fortress in Bhutan, built in 1648, overlooking the gorge of the Mangdichhu River. Next, visit the Tower of Trongsa (known as Ta Dzong) stands tall as an ancient watchtower, offering captivating views of Trongsa town and its surroundings Then we continue your journey to Bumthang (68-km) about 2.5 hours via Yotongla Pass (3,425m). From here, you will rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail (7.4-km/3 hours trek), a route historically associated with the Royal Family, who frequently used it to travel between their residences in Trongsa and Bumthang. Starting from Yotongla, the trail descends through picturesque meadows and open forests until it reaches the Gyeltsachhu (river). You will then enjoy a scenic walk along the river to Geytsa Village, where you will meet your vehicle for a transfer to Bumthang. A picnic lunch will be served at a suitable spot along the trail. Upon arrival in Bumthang, the evening is yours to spend at leisure, allowing you time to stroll through the streets of the small town of Jakar.
Overnight stay in Bumthang.

After breakfast, head east out of Bumthang through the beautiful and charming town of Chamkhar. Continue climbing up to Badhala, enjoying spectacular views of the Lhodrak Karchu Dratsang monastery along the way. The trail, which covers 14.39 km and takes about 6-7 hours to complete, begins to descend after Badhala as you approach the village of Babzur and continue towards the Pema Choling Nunnery. Here, women and girls undertake a nine-year course in the Nyingma Peling Buddhist tradition and are known for their unique drum ceremony called "chod." After visiting the nunnery, the trail continues south towards the sacred Mebatsho, or "Burning Lake." According to legend, in the 15th century, the great treasure hunter Pema Lingpa discovered several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures at this site. Lingpa had a dream in which he was summoned to this specific spot on the Tang River, where he saw a temple with many doors at the bottom of the river. Swimming down into a large cave, he was handed a treasure chest by a one-eyed woman. Later, he repeated this feat in front of the local people, holding a lit butter lamp that miraculously stayed alight underwater. It is because of this event that the pool is called "Burning Lake." Enjoy a picnic lunch outdoors before heading back to your hotel. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

We will explore the pristine Bumthang Valley, also known as Jakar, revered as the religious heartland of Bhutan and home to some of the country’s oldest temples and monasteries. After breakfast, drive to Kenchosum Lhakhang, a historic 8th century temple. This sacred site is famed for its ancient relic— a broken bronze bell said to have been gifted by a mermaid. According to legend, the bell's sound could once be heard as far as Lhasa in Tibet when rung. The temple suffered extensive damage due to a butter-lamp fire in 2010 but was beautifully reconstructed, brightly painted, and re-consecrated in 2014. Inside, it houses three statues of Due-Sum-Sangay (the Buddhas of the Past, Present, and Future) and other revered relics. Next, visit Tamshing Lhakhang, a center for Nyingma Buddhist teachings founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa. From here, take a short walk and cross the bridge over the Chamkharchhu River to reach the Kurjey Lhakhang complex. This sacred site comprises three temples encircled by walls adorned with 108 chortens. Kurjey Lhakhang is where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century, subdued the local demon Phola Shelging Karpo, and healed the ailing King Sindhu Raja of Bumthang. Your next sightseeing is Jambay Lhakhang (Temple of Maitreya), believed to be one of 108 temples built in a single day by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. This temple is steeped in history and mythology, having been constructed to suppress the evil spirits of a demoness hindering the spread of Buddhism. Today, enjoy an authentic traditional Bhutanese meal at Sherab Dema Farmhouse, where you can try your hand at archery or relax in a soothing traditional hot stone bath. Overnight stay in Bumthang.

This morning, we will arrange for your transfer to Bathpalathang Domestic Airport in Bumthang for a short 35-minute flight to Paro International Airport via Drukair (ATR 42-600). The ATR flight is equipped with the ClearVision system, specifically tailored for serving small airports in the country. This short-haul flight promises a unique experience as you soar over the skies of the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan! Upon arrival in Paro, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure. We have allotted some time for this purpose and to explore the quaint surroundings of Paro town. Overnight stay in Paro.

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast. We transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Our guide and driver from Bhutan Green Travel will see you off. Tashi Delek (Goodbye and Good Luck)!