Trans Bhutan Trail Highlight
Overview
Walk a section of the historic Trans Bhutan Trail, reopened after 60 years. Connect with history, nature, and community on this unique trekking experience. Enjoy local cuisine, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery throughout the day.
This itinerary is designed to give you a comprehensive experience of Bhutan's unique culture and stunning landscapes.
Highlights
- Hike sections of the historic trail
- Camping and Homestays
- Chendebji Chorten
- Trongsa Dzong
What's Included
- TBT Trail Permit
- Certified Trail Guide
- Mix of Camping/Hotels/Homestays
- Luggage transfer
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Paro - Thimphu
Arrive in Paro and transfer to Thimphu. In the evening, attend a special briefing on the Trans Bhutan Trail. This historic trail was used for centuries by pilgrims, messengers, and armies, connecting the east and west of Bhutan. Walking it is walking through history. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu - Dochula - Punakha
Drive to Punakha via the Dochula Pass. Visit Punakha Dzong, a key location in the trail's history as the old capital. Receive your 'Trail Passport' which you can stamp at various points. Enjoy a relaxed evening by the river preparing for the journey east.
Day 3: Punakha - Chendebji
Drive further east to Chendebji (4-5 hours), passing through Wangdue Phodrang. Stop at the Pele La Pass (3,420m) which traditionally divided western and central Bhutan. Arrive at Chendebji Chorten, a Nepalese-style stupa built in the 18th century. Camp overnight near the Chorten, soaking in the historical atmosphere.
Day 4: Trek: Chendebji to Tshangkha
Begin your first section of the Trans Bhutan Trail walk. The trail meanders through lush temperate forests of hemlock and fir. Pass through the small village of Chendebji and interact with locals who have lived along this trade route for generations. The walk is moderate (approx 4-5 hours). Arrive at Tshangkha village for a homestay or camp experience, offering authentic insight into rural life.
Day 5: Trek: Tshangkha to Trongsa
A spectacular day of hiking. The trail climbs to a viewpoint that offers your first sighting of the massive Trongsa Dzong, the 'Fortress of the Vanguard of the Warriors.' The view of the Dzong stretching along the ridge is iconic. Descend to the Mangde Chhu river and cross the old cantilever bridge before the final climb to the Dzong. Visit the Royal Heritage Museum in the Watchtower (Ta Dzong) to learn about the Wangchuck dynasty. Overnight in a hotel in Trongsa.
Day 6: Trongsa - Bumthang
Drive to Bumthang (2.5 hours), crossing the Yotong La Pass. Stop at the Chumey valley to see the famous 'Yathra' weavers. Arrive in Jakar, Bumthang. visit the Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang. Bumthang is a valley of myths and legends, and the trail here connects many sacred sites.
Day 7: Bumthang Valley Hike
Walk a section of the trail within the Bumthang valley (Babadishong to Pema Choling). This pleasant walk takes you through pine forests and past the Swiss Farm area. Visit Mebar Tsho (The Burning Lake), a sacred pilgrimage site. Enjoy a traditional Bumthang buckwheat lunch at a local farmhouse.
Day 8: Bumthang - Phobjikha
Begin the return journey west. Drive to the Phobjikha Valley. Visit the Gangtey Monastery. walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, which overlaps with local feeder trails used by monks and villagers. Spend a peaceful night in this glacial valley.
Day 9: Phobjikha - Paro
Drive back to Paro (5-6 hours). En route, stop for lunch at Nobding or Wangdue. Arrive in Paro and check into your hotel. Use the evening to verify your gear for the Tiger's Nest hike tomorrow.
Day 10: Tiger's Nest Hike
Conclude your Trans Bhutan Trail discovery with the ultimate pilgrimage: the hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest). Just as ancient pilgrims did, ascend the path to pay homage at this sacred site. Reflect on the kilometers you've covered and the history you've witnessed. Farewell dinner with traditional music and dance.
Day 11: Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport. Your trail journey ends here, but the connection to Bhutan's path will remain. Tashi Delek!
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