Camp the Trans Bhutan Trail

Day 1: Arrival in Thimphu

Upon arriving in Paro, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. After checking in, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the city’s highlights if time permits. A visit to Buddha Point, where the massive Buddha Dordenma statue resides, offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You’ll also visit the Memorial Chorten, an important Tibetan-style stupa built in 1974. In the evening, you’ll gather with your group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Bhutanese cuisine and meet your fellow travelers and local tour leader.

Day 2: Trekking Begins – Pelela to Chendebi

Your first day of trekking on the Trans Bhutan Trail begins with a transfer to Pelela Pass, located at 3,407 meters (11,177 feet) above sea level. As you descend through beautiful meadows, you’ll catch glimpses of yak herder camps. A stop at a traditional farmhouse in Rukubji provides a hot lunch and a chance to learn about the unique local dialect from villagers over tea. After lunch, you’ll hike to the village of Chendebi, where you’ll camp for the night. Before dinner, you’ll visit the Chorten (stupa) that marks the convergence of three ridges, ending the day with a delicious, locally sourced dinner at the campsite.

Day 3: Chendebi to Tsangkha

After breakfast at camp, you’ll rejoin the Trans Bhutan Trail, trekking along the historic East-West National Highway toward Tangsibji. A farmhouse lunch will refuel you before you continue past several hydroelectric sites, highlighting Bhutan’s commitment to renewable energy. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Trashi Choeling Lhakhang temple before reaching your campsite in Tsangkha. After enjoying a hot shower, you’ll gather for a locally sourced organic dinner, sharing stories about the day’s adventures.

Day 4: Tsangkha to Trongsa

Today’s trek involves a short, steep climb out of Tsangkha, leading you to the Ugyen Choling and Tsangkha Sheydra. You’ll descend to the National Highway and take in breathtaking views of Trongsa Dzong, the geographical center of Bhutan. A memorable crossing of the old cantilever bridge over the Mangde River leads to your hotel in Trongsa, where you can relax and explore at your own pace before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Exploring Trongsa

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a tour of Trongsa Dzong, a historically significant fortress built in 1541. You’ll visit several temples within the dzong and the Trongsa Ta Dzong, which now houses the Royal Heritage Museum. The remainder of the day is yours to discover Trongsa, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and history at your leisure.

Day 6: Trongsa to Gyetsa

After bidding farewell to Trongsa, you’ll continue your trek toward Gyetsa. The trail begins with a gradual climb through dense forests and meadows, leading to a picnic lunch stop in Yotongla. The day concludes as you reach your campsite in Gyetsa, where you’ll enjoy a hot shower and a locally sourced organic dinner, reflecting on the day’s natural beauty.

Day 7: Gyetsa to Bumthang

Following breakfast, you’ll trek through a historically significant section of the trail used by the royal family. After passing through Kikila Pass and descending into Bumthang Valley, you’ll visit Jakar Dzong, known as the ‘Castle of the White Bird.’ This evening, you’ll experience a unique homestay, sharing a meal and stories with a local Bhutanese family, providing insight into their daily lives and traditions.

Day 8: Bumthang to Punakha

After breakfast at your homestay, you’ll head back to Punakha. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch and visit the Bazam, a bridge that requires formal Bhutanese dress to cross. Once across, you’ll explore Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortresses in Bhutan. In the evening, you’ll enjoy another homestay experience, where you can relax and savor a delicious homemade meal.

Day 9: Punakha to Paro

The next day, after breakfast, you’ll transfer to Paro, checking into your hotel and having lunch. Your afternoon will be spent exploring Paro’s attractions, including the Ta Dzong, which serves as Bhutan’s National Museum, showcasing the country’s rich heritage through various exhibitions. You’ll also visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong, known for its stunning architecture and scenic location. Dinner will be a delightful affair with your fellow travelers, sharing experiences from your journey.

Day 10: Trekking to Tiger’s Nest

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a memorable trek to Taktshang Goemba, famously known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest Monastery.’ Perched 900 meters (2,950 feet) above the valley floor, this iconic monastery offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore its significant religious sites, including the cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated. The trek down may include a stop at Machig-phu Lhakhang temple, allowing for a reflection on the awe-inspiring day spent in one of Bhutan’s most sacred locations.

Day 11: Departure

On your final day, enjoy breakfast before checking out of your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for last-minute shopping or exploring in Paro before your transfer to the airport for departure. Your journey on the Trans Bhutan Trail concludes, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s natural beauty, rich culture, and the warmth of its people.