Arrival in Paro (2,280m/7,480ft)

Arrival at Paro International Airport: A representative of Amen Bhutan Tours & Treks will provide a warm greeting to you upon your arrival at Paro International Airport. The agent will help you with your bags and transportation; just look for a sign with your name on it.

Transfer to Accommodation: You will be taken to your assigned lodging in Paro following your meeting with your representative. Your lodging in Paro will be convenient and comfortable thanks to the hotel Amen Bhutan Tours and Treks has chosen.

Rest and Check-In: After your travel, you’ll check into your hotel and have some time to relax and unwind. In particular, if you have come from a lower level, use this time to unwind and adjust to the altitude.

Pre-Trek Meeting: Amen Bhutan Tours and Treks will host a pre-trek meeting in the late afternoon or early evening. Your trekking guide will give you a thorough rundown of the schedule for the forthcoming Bumthang Cultural Trek during this meeting. They will go over important information about trekking, safety measures, and any gear or preparations that are required.

Introduction and Briefing: You will get the chance to get to know the trekking staff and your fellow hikers during the pre-trek meeting. In addition to making an introduction, your guide will answer any queries or worries you may have regarding the hike. Additionally, they will go over crucial details on cultural sensitivity, environmental conservation techniques, and proper trekking etiquette.

Meal: You’ll have a delectable meal at the hotel or at a neighboring restaurant following the pre-trek meeting. You will be able to enjoy the regional flavors and culinary delights during the evening, which will include a variety of Bhutanese and foreign delicacies.

Accommodations: You will stay at the same hotel that you booked when you first arrived in Paro. The hotel provides cozy accommodations with contemporary conveniences, guaranteeing a good night’s sleep before to your trekking journey.

Rest & Relaxation: After dinner, you’ll have the rest of the evening to yourself to unwind and rest. Use this time to recuperate and get ready for the thrilling voyage that lies ahead. You can decide to spend a quiet evening in your room or venture out into the surroundings of your lodging.

The first day of your agenda for the Bumthang Cultural Trek has ended. Your first day of hiking will start with a visit to the well-known Tiger’s Nest Monastery tomorrow.

Touring and Getting Used to It 4 to 5 hours (5 km) of hiking to reach Tiger's Nest Monastery (3,180m/10,433ft) journey

Breakfast: Refuel for the day ahead of you with a substantial breakfast at your Paro hotel.

Travel to Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Following breakfast, your hiking guide will drive you to the trailhead of one of Bhutan’s most famous sites, Tiger’s Nest Monastery. You’ll see vistas of traditional Bhutanese architecture and rural life as you travel through scenic valleys and forested slopes.

Arrival at Trailhead: You will get out of the car at the trailhead and get ready to hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Your guide will give a quick orientation prior to the start of the trip, going over crucial safety precautions and proper trekking technique.

Beginning of the Hike: After packing your necessities and trekking equipment, you’ll head off on foot in the direction of Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The trail gradually climbs toward the monastery located on a sheer rock as it winds through verdant pine forests and meandering paths.

Scenery: Ascending further on the trail will reward you with breath-taking, all-encompassing views of the Paro Valley below. Amidst the breathtaking scenery of the verdant landscapes and towering Himalayan peaks, there are lots of opportunities for photography and admiration while you climb.

Reaching Tiger’s Nest Monastery: After climbing for two to three hours, you will reach Paro Taktsang, popularly known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The monastery, perched perilously on a cliff’s edge at 3,180 meters (10,433 ft) above sea level, is a symbol of Bhutan’s rich religious and cultural legacy.

Rest and Exploration: After arriving at Tiger’s Nest Monastery, spend some time exploring its elaborate architecture, revered shrines, and peaceful environs. In addition to having time to relax and take in the calm atmosphere, you will have the chance to hear about the history and significance of the monastery from your guide.

Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in a beautiful location close to the monastery after touring Tiger’s Nest. Admire the breathtaking views of the neighboring valleys and mountains while your trekking team prepares a delectable dinner for you.

Descent: After lunch and some downtime, you’ll head back down the trail in the direction of the trailhead. The climb downward provides an alternative viewpoint on the terrain and several chances to take in the peace and beauty of the surroundings.

Return to Paro: At the trailhead, you will meet your means of transportation to make the trip back to Paro. As you make your way back to your accommodation, consider the amazing experience you had at Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

supper and relaxation: After returning to your Paro hotel, savor a delicious supper before turning in for the evening. After a rewarding day of trekking and sightseeing, take advantage of this chance to relax and recover.

The Bumthang Cultural Trek itinerary’s second day comes to an end here. You’ll drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, tomorrow to start the next part of your tour.

Drive to Thimpu from Paaro (1hour)

Breakfast and Check-Out: Start the day off well at your Paro hotel with a delectable breakfast. Make sure all of your items are packed and prepared for departure before checking out of the hotel after breakfast.

When everyone is ready, you will leave Paro and travel through beautiful scenery to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The trip between the two cities is not too long—it takes around an hour to complete.

Scenic Drive: As you travel into Thimphu, take in the lovely rural vistas and scenic sceneries. Views of rural Bhutanese life can be seen as the road winds past verdant valleys, terraced fields, and traditional settlements.

Arrival in Thimphu: Bhutan’s capital city will welcome you with its lively atmosphere and winding streets after you arrive. After the travel, check into your assigned lodging and freshen up.

After settling in, you’ll have some free time to spend exploring Thimphu at your own pace. You could decide to take a leisurely stroll around the city to take in the lively atmosphere, or you could visit nearby markets, art galleries, or cultural attractions.

Optional Activities: You can choose to see well-known sites like the Tashichho Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, or the enormous Buddha Dordenma Statue that towers over the city, depending on your preferences.

Lunch: Savor a delectable meal at a nearby eatery, choosing from a variety of international or indigenous Bhutanese foods.

Proceeding with Your Exploration: Proceed with your exploration of Thimphu during the afternoon. You could choose to unwind in one of the city’s parks or gardens or browse traditional boutiques and artisan stores.

Dinner: Savor the delights of Bhutanese cuisine in a local restaurant or at your accommodation in the evening. Think back on the day’s events and share with your fellow passengers the highlights of your adventure.

Stay for the Night: After supper, head back to your Thimphu lodging for a peaceful night’s sleep to refresh yourself for the adventures that await.

Day 03 of your program for the Bumthang Cultural Trek comes to an end here. Before moving on to your next stop, you will continue your tour tomorrow in Thimphu with additional sightseeing and cultural activities.

Drive to Punakha via Dochu-La Pass (4-5 hours)

Breakfast and Check-Out: At your Thimphu hotel, begin the day with a full breakfast. Before leaving the hotel, make sure all of your items are packed and prepared for travel.

Departure from Thimphu: Meet your driver and guide for the trip to Punakha after breakfast. Get into your car and get ready for a breathtaking journey throughout the rural landscape of Bhutan.

Traveling over Dochu-La Pass: From Thimphu, the route progressively rises to the spectacular Dochu-La Pass, which is 3,100 meters (10,170 ft) high. Admire the expansive vistas of the neighboring valleys and the Himalayan mountain ranges as you go.

Stop at Dochu-La Pass: As you get to Dochu-La Pass, stop and have a moment to stretch your legs and take in the stunning surroundings. A group of 108 chortens, or stupas, adorn the route, providing a calm environment for contemplation and photography.

Proceeding to Punakha: Proceed in the direction of Punakha via the short detour at Dochu-La Pass. After descending the pass, go down the meandering mountain paths that lead to the Punakha Valley, which is subtropical.

Scenery: The Punakha Valley welcomes you with verdant trees, terraced farmland, and traditional Bhutanese villages scattered throughout the terrain. There are many opportunities along the way to enjoy Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural legacy.

Arrival in Punakha: Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, is reached after a 4- to 5-hour drive. After the trip, check into your assigned lodging and relax.

Lunch: Savor a delectable meal at your hotel or at a nearby restaurant, choosing from a variety of international or Bhutanese cuisine options.

Visit Punakha Dzong: You have the option to spend the day touring Punakha Dzong, a stunning stronghold situated where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers converge. Discover this cultural landmark’s rich history and complex architecture.

Rest and Exploration: Take the rest of the day to leisurely explore Punakha. You may choose to go to the local markets, have a leisurely walk by the river, or just unwind and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the valley.

Dinner: Savor the flavors of Bhutanese cuisine for dinner in the evening, either at your hotel or at a nearby restaurant. Think back on the day’s events and be ready for tomorrow’s exciting new day.

Stay for the Night: After supper, head back to your Punakha lodging for a peaceful night’s sleep to refresh yourself for the adventures that await.

The agenda for your Bumthang Cultural Trek comes to an end here on Day 4. You’ll continue your tour the following day by exploring Punakha more thoroughly before moving on to Bumthang.

Drive to Bumthang via Throngsa (6-7 hours):

Breakfast and Check-Out: Start the day right at your Punakha hotel with a hearty breakfast. Before leaving the hotel, make sure all of your items are packed and prepared for travel.

Departure from Punakha: After breakfast, head to Bumthang for a picturesque drive with your guide and driver. Say goodbye to Punakha and start your next journey through the stunning countryside of Bhutan.

Travel to Trongsa: The 6-to 7-hour drive from Trongsa to Bumthang passes through a variety of scenic locales and quaint settlements. Savor the ride as you pass through lush valleys and twisting mountain roads, stopping occasionally to stretch your legs and admire the surroundings.

Scenery: Leaving Punakha behind, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of terraced fields, thick forests, and gushing waterfalls as you ascend towards Trongsa. To preserve the untamed beauty of Bhutan’s harsh landscape, always have your camera close at hand.

A halt in Trongsa is recommended midway through your tour. Trongsa is a medieval town that is well-known for its magnificent dzong (fortress). Seize the chance to visit Trongsa Dzong, an architectural wonder situated atop a ridge with a view of the Mangde Chhu river valley.

Lunch: Savor a delectable meal at a neighborhood Trongsa restaurant while trying out international or Bhutanese specialties.

Stay the Night: After supper, head back to your Bumthang lodging for a peaceful night’s sleep to refresh yourself for the adventures that await.

The agenda for your Bumthang Cultural Trek comes to an end here on Day 5. You’ll spend the following day touring Bumthang and taking in all of its historical and cultural sites.

Sightseeing in Bumthang city including Jakar Dzong

Breakfast: Fill up for a full day of adventure and discovery by starting your day with a delectable breakfast at your Bumthang hotel.

See Jakar Dzong: Following breakfast, have a guided tour to Jakar Dzong, popularly referred to as the “Castle of the White Bird.” Dating back to the 17th century, this medieval fortress-monastery serves as the administrative hub of the Bumthang district. Discover the dzong’s elaborate architecture, courtyards, temples, and antiquated artifacts. With the help of your informed guide, discover the rich history and cultural significance of this architectural wonder.

Tamshing Lhakhang: After seeing Jakar Dzong, go to Tamshing Lhakhang, a well-known temple close by. Constructed in 1501 by the well-known Bhutanese saint Pema Lingpa, Tamshing Lhakhang is famed for its exquisite murals that portray the life of Guru Rinpoche and Buddhist teachings.

Kurjey Lhakhang: Next, pay a visit to Kurjey Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s holiest places. There are three primary temples in this complex, the oldest of which is from the eighth century. See the exquisitely decorated main temple and the hallowed caverns where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his physical imprint.

Lunch: Take a break and enjoy some international or Bhutanese food at a nearby restaurant.

Visit Jambay Lhakhang, another important Bumthang temple, following lunch. Constructed in the 7th century by Songtsen Gampo, the Tibetan monarch, Jambay Lhakhang is said to house the “fertility temple,” wherein aspirant couples gather to offer prayers at the yearly Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival.

Visit to a Swiss Farm: Finish your sightseeing tour by going to a Swiss farm located in Bumthang. Discover the methods used to produce Swiss cheese on the farm and discover how different crops are grown in the area.

After the scenic trip, you will have free time to stroll about Bumthang’s quaint streets, do souvenir shopping, or mingle with the amiable people.

Dinner: Savor a superb meal of Bhutanese specialties at your accommodation or at a nearby restaurant.

Stay for the Night: Following dinner, head back to your Bumthang lodging for a peaceful night’s sleep while thinking back on the cultural gems you’ve discovered over the day.

The agenda for your Bumthang Cultural Trek comes to an end here on Day 6. You’ll experience Bhutan’s natural beauty and spiritual legacy even more as you set out on an exciting trek from Bumthang to Ngang Lhakhang tomorrow.

Trek from Bumthang to Ngang Lhakhang (300m), 5-6 hours:

Breakfast and Preparation: At your Bumthang lodging, begin the day with a substantial breakfast. For the day’s hike, bring the necessities: water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket.

Meeting with the Trekking Team: Meet your trekking guide and support team at the agreed-upon meeting spot. A briefing on the day’s trekking route, safety precautions, and points of interest en route will be given by your guide.

Trekking: Set out from Bumthang in the direction of Ngang Lhakhang, a charming village tucked away in Bhutan’s peaceful valleys. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as it winds through verdant woods, meadows, and traditional Bhutanese villages.

Views of the Himalayas and lush valleys below: Ascend the trail and take in the expansive vistas of these mountains. Look out for the distinctive wildlife and vegetation that are native to the area, such as vibrant birds and budding wildflowers.

Stop for a picnic lunch at a beautiful location along the trail, where you can enjoy the unspoiled scenery and clean mountain air. Enjoy a fantastic supper cooked by your trekking team that includes regional specialties from Bhutan to replenish your energies.

Cultural Encounters: You can come across local villagers herding yaks or caring to their fields along the route. Seize the chance to engage with the amiable residents and discover more about their rituals and traditional way of life to acquire insight into Bhutanese culture.

Reaching Ngang Lhakhang: Following five to six hours of hiking, you will reach this ancient temple tucked away in a tranquil setting. With the help of your guide, explore the temple complex and discover its spiritual significance. Admire the quiet beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the place.

Accommodations: Spend the night at your Ngang Lhakhang lodging after checking in. After a long day of hiking, the lodging options could be a historic farmhouse or a quaint guesthouse that offers a peaceful getaway.

supper and relaxation: Savor a substantial supper made by your hosts, which includes filling Bhutanese cuisine. After dinner, spend some time indulging in some relaxation and contemplation while taking in the peace and quiet of Ngang Lhakhang.

Evening Activities: Go stargazing or have cross-cultural discussions with your fellow hikers and the local hosts. Take in the friendly welcome and intricate customs of rural Bhutan.

Restful Night: Head back to your room and drift off to sleep, soothed by the fresh mountain air and the sounds of the natural world.

Trek from Ngang Lhakhang to Ugyenchholing (3100m), 6-7 hours:

Morning Preparation: Start the day off well with a hearty breakfast that is provided to you at your Ngang Lhakhang lodging. As you get ready for the day’s hike, fill your daypack with necessities like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.

Meet your knowledgeable trekking guide and support staff when you arrive at the designated meeting spot. A briefing on the day’s trekking route will be given by your guide, who will also point out any interesting locations, tricky spots, and safety measures.

Trek Start: Leave Ngang Lhakhang, say goodbye to your kind hosts, and head towards Ugyenchholing to begin your journey. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes as it meanders through virgin forests, green meadows, and isolated valleys.

Gradual Ascent: You will progressively ascend to higher heights as you go in the direction of Ugyenchholing, reaching an elevation of 3100 meters (10170 feet). Acclimate to the shifting altitude gradually, moving at a steady pace and drinking plenty of water the entire way.

Natural Beauty: As you travel throughout a variety of terrain, passing by traditional Bhutanese villages, bubbling streams, and lush woods, you can fully immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty. Along the walk, keep an eye out for sightings of indigenous fauna and plants.

Lunch pause: Take a short pause at a beautiful location along the trail to enjoy a refreshing meal and the peace and quiet of your surroundings. For lunch, your trekking team will whip up a delectable picnic that will fuel you for the rest of the hike.

Cultural Encounters: As you hike, you can come across local peasants going about their everyday lives or managing cattle. Have cordial conversations with the locals and discover more about their customs and way of life.

Arrival at Ugyenchholing: After six to seven hours of hiking, you will reach this tranquil village tucked away in Bhutan’s mountains. As you settle in, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this outlying Himalayan community.

Relaxation and Exploration: Take some time to stroll through the village, explore Ugyenchholing at your own pace, or just unwind in the peaceful surroundings this evening. Take in the tranquility of the mountains and Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery.

supper and Stay: Savor a substantial supper made by your hosts, which will include healthful Bhutanese food with touches of regional flavor. Once you’ve finished dinner, head back to your lodging to have a good night’s sleep and refresh yourself for the adventures that are ahead.

The Bumthang Cultural Trek itinerary ends here on Day 8. The next day, you will resume your trekking adventure by moving on from Ugyenchholing to Jakar, the Bumthang region’s cultural center.

Trek Ugyenchholing to Jakar:

Morning Preparation: Begin your day at Ugyenchholing with a hearty breakfast provided by your lodging. As you pack, be sure you have everything you’ll need for the day’s hike.

Meeting with the Trekking Guide: Arrive at the agreed-upon meeting spot to meet your knowledgeable trekking guide and the staff providing support. A summary of the trekking route for today and any pertinent safety advice will be given by your guide.

Trekking: Set off from Ugyenchholing in the direction of Jakar, the center of Bumthang culture. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan scenery as it winds through virgin woods, secluded valleys, and gorgeous meadows.

Gradual Descending: From the highest peaks of Ugyenchholing, you will gently lower as you hike towards Jakar, taking in the beautiful scenery and mild slopes along the route. Take your time to appreciate the untamed beauty of Bhutan’s untamed landscape.

Highlights of the local culture: There are a number of historical monasteries, prayer flags waving in the wind, and chortens, or stupas, that may be seen along the trekking route. As you go by, your guide will explain the cultural significance of these locations.

Lunch Break: Take a well-earned break at a picturesque location along the trail to have a packed lunch that your trekking team has prepared. Take a nap and rejuvenate in the peace and quiet of the surrounding mountains.

Final Stretch: After lunch, carry on walking along the meandering mountain paths and across gurgling streams in Jakar. Savor the peace and quiet of the natural surroundings while keeping a look out for wildlife sightings.

Arrival in Jakar: The kind people of the local community will greet you when you arrive in Jakar, following several hours of hiking. After a long day of travel, check into your lodging and take some time to rest and recuperate.

Touring Jakar: Take your time touring the quaint town of Jakar in the evening. You might opt to take in the lively ambiance of this old town by going to local markets, artisan workshops, or cultural sites.

Dinner and Overnight Stay: At your hotel or a nearby eatery in Jakar, savor a delectable dinner of foreign or traditional Bhutanese cuisine. After dinner, head back to your lodging to have a good night’s sleep and refresh yourself for the adventures that lie ahead.

The agenda for your Bumthang Cultural Trek ends here on Day 9. You’ll get the chance to see more of Jakar and the nearby sights the following day before traveling through Bhutan’s magnificent scenery.

Drive back to Punakha (5-6 hours):

Breakfast and Check-Out: Start your day right at your Jakar lodging with a satisfying breakfast. Make sure everything is prepared for the trip back to Punakha as you pack your luggage.

Departure from Jakar: After breakfast, get in the car with your driver and head back to Punakha through beautiful scenery. Say goodbye to Jakar as you go from the Bumthang region’s cultural center.

Travel across the beautiful countryside of Bhutan: As you pass through valleys, forests, and traditional villages, take a seat back, unwind, and take in the stunning scenery of this beautiful country. It usually takes five to six hours to travel from Jakar to Punakha, depending on the weather and state of the roads.

Scenic Stops: Your driver may stop at cultural landmarks or picturesque vistas along the route so you can take a break and take some amazing pictures of the breathtaking scenery.

Lunch Break: Take a break from your travels and enjoy a leisurely meal at a nearby restaurant. Refuel there and enjoy the meal for the rest of your journey.

Proceeding to Punakha: Following lunch, continue traveling to Punakha by making your way down from the hilly region of Bumthang to the subtropical Punakha Valley. Admire the ways the scenery changes as you get closer to your destination.

Arrival in Punakha: The peaceful atmosphere of the valley and the magnificent Punakha Dzong, which is located at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, will greet you upon arrival in Punakha.

Check-In at Accommodation: After a long trip, check into your prearranged lodging in Punakha and take some time to unwind.

Free Time: Take the rest of the day to relax and take in Punakha at your own speed, or just take in the breathtaking views of the valley.

Supper: Enjoy a delectable supper at your hotel or at a nearby restaurant in the evening, where you can try international or Bhutanese specialties.

Stay the Night: After supper, head back to your Punakha lodging for a restful night’s sleep to refresh yourself for the adventures that await.

The agenda for your Bumthang Cultural Trek comes to an end here on Day 10. You can spend tomorrow exploring Punakha more thoroughly before travelling on to Paro.

Drive back to Paro via Dochu-La Pass:

Morning Preparation: Start the day off well at your Punakha lodging with a full breakfast. Make sure everything you own is prepared for the trip back to Paro by packing it all.

Departure from Punakha: Pick up your driver and start the journey back to Paro after breakfast. Say goodbye to Punakha and start your adventure across the breathtaking Bhutanese countryside.

Route via Dochu-La Pass: The road climbs out of Punakha and leads to the breathtaking Dochu-La Pass, which is 3,100 meters (10,170 ft) above sea level. As you travel through this mountain pass, take in breath-taking vistas of the surrounding valleys and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

Pause at Dochu-La Pass: Stop here to stretch your legs and take in the expansive views. Discover the area surrounding the pass, which is decorated with prayer flags and provides breathtaking scenery for photographs.

Proceeding to Paro: Proceed in the direction of Paro via the short detour at Dochu-La Pass. Return to the Paro Valley by descending from the pass and following the meandering mountain routes.

Beautiful Sceneries: Take in the breathtaking scenery as you travel through lush forests, traditional Bhutanese villages, and terraced fields. When you move over the varied terrain, keep an eye out for any sightings of wildlife.

Lunch Break: Take a break from traveling and have a leisurely meal at a nearby restaurant. Here, you can sample delectable international or Bhutanese cuisine.

Arrival at Paro: The picturesque atmosphere of this medieval town tucked away in the Paro Valley will welcome you. After the trip, settle in to your lodging and take some time to unwind.

Free Time: Take the rest of the day to relax and explore Paro at your own speed. You can also choose to engage in optional activities like going to the town’s marketplaces or historical monuments.

supper: Savor a delicious supper at your hotel or at a local restaurant in the evening while you take in the flavors of Bhutanese cuisine.

Stay for the Night: After dinner, head back to your Paro lodging for a peaceful night’s sleep while thinking back on the special moments from your cultural tour through Bhutan.

The agenda for your Bumthang Cultural Trek comes to an end here on Day 11. You will have another day to explore Paro before your trip comes to an end when you depart from Bhutan tomorrow.

Transfer to the Paro International airport – Departure

Flight Departure: After an incredible cultural hiking experience in Bhutan, your flight will take off from Paro International Airport.

Safe Travels: I hope your trip home is enjoyable and safe, and that you will have many wonderful memories of the time you spent discovering Bhutan’s cultural treasures.

The 12th day of your Bumthang Cultural Trek schedule comes to an end here. We wish you safe travels and look forward to seeing you again in Bhutan soon!