VALES OF BHUTAN
A Journey through Valley's. Forest's. Traditions and Magical Landscape

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Accommodation: Heritage Lodges, Hotel and Deluxe Camps
Grade:  Moderate
Max trek altitude: 3,720m (Hike Over Saga La)
Duration: 08 Nights / 09 Days
Trek Leader: English Speaking Cultural Guide

The secluded Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan awaits intrepid travelers seeking a unique experience. Join us on a remarkable journey through the enchanting valleys of Haa,  Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, where ancient fortress-monasteries and the spirit of Buddhism permeate every aspect of daily life. Bhutan, known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon measures its wealth by Gross National Happiness.
 
 
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Fly to Paro (2200m), Drive to Haa (2960m). ( 75km) ( 3hrs)
Enjoy the sensational one hour of flight from Kathmandu to Paro that offers the best panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas, including Everest and Kanchenjunga.  Meet your guide in Paro and embark on a scenic drive to the picturesque valley of Haa. Depending on your flight timings, you may have the option to hike to Dzongdrakha Monastery, one of the many sacred places blessed by Guru Rinpoche and a wonderful introduction to architecture and symbology of Bhutanese Buddhism. Continue on to Haa valley over the Chele la pass (3998 mts) and settle in at the comfortable Lechuna Heritage Lodge for the night.


Day 01: Fly to Paro,  Drive to Haa. ( 75km) ( 3hrs)
On a clear day the panoramic views of the Himalaya are sensational, including Everest and Kangchenjunga, but particularly exciting is the approach through the Bhutanese foothills and the landing, including a few steep turns to land at the tiny airstrip of Paro. In Paro you will be met by your guide and start your trip to the valley of Haa, Depending on your flight timings, the option of hiking to Dzongdrakha Monastery  ( total 1 hrs)(The complex is constituted of four shrines, devoted to Drolma (Tara), Tsheringma (Goddess of Longevity), Guru Rinpoche and the Buddha of the Future, Maitreya. As per local verbal custom, when Guru Rinpoche first came to Bhutan, he came from Nepal, first landing at Drakarpo, and then Dzongdrakha before arriving at Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) beyond north up the valley. Visit the Lhakhang Karpo (11th century) on the way to Haatey Overnight : Lechuna Heritage Lodge.

Day 02: Panorama Walk (4-5hrs)
The walk is thoughtfully paced, making it suitable for participants of all fitness levels. This leisurely pace allows for a more profound connection with the rural surroundings, providing insights into the daily lives of the Bhutanese people. As you traverse the trail, take in the natural beauty, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy the tranquility that surrounds you. The journey not only offers a physical experience but also becomes a spiritual and cultural exploration. After completing the panorama walk, return to the lodge for a restful overnight stay. Reflect on the day's experiences and the unique insights gained into the traditional lifestyle of Bhutan.
 Overnight: Lechuna Heritage Lodge.

Day 03:  Trek to Choeduephu (2865) via Sagala Pass (3720m) (6hrs)
The trek today is popularly also known as the Planters Trail; in the old day’s farmers from Haa walked this same trail to Paro for rice plantation and in return they would be paid with rice in return for their labour, as rice was not possible to grow in the Haa valley. After an early breakfast, drive to the village of Thaklung to commence your trek. Cross yak grazing meadows and ascend gradually through pristine alpine forest trails that once connected the valleys of Haa and Paro.  Once at Sagala Pass savor the panoramic views including that of the Mt. Jhomolhari (7315 mts) and Jitchu Drake (6989 mts). Following a short lunch break, begin your descent of about 2 hours plus and arrive at our tented campsite in Choedue (2,865m). Overnight in comfortable deluxe tents with proper beds and attached toilets. Walking Time: 6hrs. Altitude gain: 740m Altitude loss: 855m Overnight: BOU deluxe Camp

Day 04:  Excursion to Yak Herders Camp (6hrs)
Embark on a full-day excursion to the Yak Herders camp (3,560m). Hike through forests of spruce, fir, hemlock, and rhododendron until you reach the Yak herder camp. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and a picnic lunch amidst nature's beauty. Return via a different trail, offering glimpses of the iconic Tiger's Nest and the Paro valley. Pamper yourself with a traditional stone bath prepared with mineral-rich mountain water before dinner. Walking Time: 6hrs. Altitude gain: 695m Altitude loss: 695m Overnight: BOU deluxe Camp

Day 05: Walk to Road Ends (5km). Drive to Thimphu (2335m)(1.5hr)
After breakfast, we embark on a leisurely one and ahlf hour stroll through a serene pine forest, eventually reaching the road where your vehicle awaits. This morning walk not only offers a refreshing start to the day but also provides an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us.
Following our tranquil walk, we drive about an hour to the capital city, Thimphu, Visit the lively Farmer's Market, where vibrant colors and the bustle of daily life characterize the atmosphere. Here, we can engage with the local culture and witness the exchange of fresh produce and handmade goods. In the afternoon, we embark on a brief tour of the magnificent Tashichho Dzong. Similar to many dzongs in Bhutan, this fortress-like structure serves dual purposes, housing both administrative offices and the monastic community. Notably, the premises also include the office of the King of Bhutan, adding a touch of regal significance to our visit.Overnight: Hotel

Day 06: Drive to Punakha (1245m) (3-4hrs)
Begin the day by visiting the Buddha Point close to the city. The Dordenma Buddha Shakyamuni statue is a massive structure 54 mts in height and manifest’s Peace and Happiness for all sentient beings.  From here head towards the Dochu La Pass (3,140m/10,302ft), and over to Punakha valley. At the pass make a short coffee break and view the panoramic Himalayas with the impressive 108 Memorial Chortens in the backdrop. Descend through varied forests until you reach the warmer Punakha valley.  A short detour to visit the most impressive Wangduephodarng will be well worth the effort. The Wangduephodtang Dzong was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal around the same time as the Punakha Dzong in the 17th century. History has it that this Dzong was built to fulfill the prophecy of unifying the country. This Dzong is also proof of the resilience of the people since it was built rebuilt four times after the Dzong was destroyed due to natural calamities like, earthquake and fire. Drive 30 minutes or so to Punakha for overnight.: Hotel

 
Day 07: Drive to Paro (2220m)(130km) (4hrs)
Enjoy a scenic drive to Paro, stopping at the impressive and beautiful Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Mo and Po Chuu rivers. The Dzong itself is the second largest and also the second oldest in the country. Built by Shabdrung Ngwang Namgay in the 17th century and is all the more precious because it houses the relics of the Shabdrung himself and one of the foremost religious master Pema Lingpa. Punakha used to be the capital of the country until as early as 1954. On the return drive heading back to Paro visit the renowned Chimi Lhakhang, a temple built by the "Divine Madman”. Legend has it that barren couples are able to bear children after receiving blessings here. After 3 hours on the road with short breaks along the way arrive in Paro and overnight at Nemjo Heritage Lodge, a beautifully curated farm house with all the comforts of a hotel. Overnight: Nemjo Heritage Lodge

Day 08 Taktsang Monastery (3120m) (4-5hrs)
The best is kept for last !. The Taktsang Monastery, also famously known as the Tigers Nest was built in 1692 by the then ruler Gyalmo Tenzin Rabgye and is one of the 13 Tiger Nest caves in historical Tibet in which Guru Padmashambava practiced and preached Vajrayana Buddhism.  The monastery lies at an altitude 3120 meters and offer’s the best views of the Paro valley below. The hike excursion takes anywhere between 3 to 5 hours depending on the level of fitness.  On the return it is a must to visit the oldest, beautiful and quaint Kichu Lhakhang . The Lhakhang is one of the 108 temples that was built by the Tibetan King Songsten Gempo in the 7th century and houses one of the most magnificent Sakyamuni and Chenrigzi statues.
Round up the visit to the country with an evening of cultural program and farewell dinner Overnight: Nemjo Heritage Lodge

Day 09: Departure. Flights out of Bhutan are usually in early part of the day.
 

 

Unseen Bhutan
A wonderful, easy paced tour designed to get you under the surface of Bhutanese culture.  The first of its kind in Bhutan that incorporates all the key culture sights, including the iconic Taktsang Monastery called Tiger’s Nest. Staying at tradional houses restored to suit the needs of the travellers.We meet villagers in their own homes, and travel right into the smallest and western most district of Haa. Spend time in Haa, exploring the villages and monasteries with gentle walks. The tour is called “unseen” because other valleys like Paro are more popular, hence leading to the Haa Valley to be undiscovered. On this captivating tour, we show you a pristine valley that has retained it’s charm, it’s natural beauty, as well as the customs, of local men who still travel by horse over mountain passes to trade goods with China.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Accommodation: Lodges and Deluxe Camp
Grade: Moderate
Max trek altitude: 3,720m ( hike over the Saga la)
Duration: 06 Nights / 07 Days
Trek Leader: English Speaking Guide
Group Size : 2 -8 person only

HIGHLIGHTS
Walk to the iconic Tigers Nest Monastery
Explore the villages and monasteries of Haa Valley
Get a real sense of the Bhutanese lifestyle
Vist the Yak Herders Camp
Drive over Chele La Pass

Day 01: Fly to Paro,  Drive to Haa. ( 75km) ( 3hrs)
On a clear day the panoramic views of the Himalaya are sensational, including Everest and Kangchenjunga, but particularly exciting is the approach through the Bhutanese foothills and the landing, including a few steep turns to land at the tiny airstrip of Paro. In Paro you will be met by your guide and start your trip to the valley of Haa, Depending on your flight timings, the option of hiking to Dzongdrakha Monastery  ( total 1 hrs)(The complex is constituted of four shrines, devoted to Drolma (Tara), Tsheringma (Goddess of Longevity), Guru Rinpoche and the Buddha of the Future, Maitreya. As per local verbal custom, when Guru Rinpoche first came to Bhutan, he came from Nepal, first landing at Drakarpo, and then Dzongdrakha before arriving at Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) beyond north up the valley. Visit the Lhakhang Karpo (11th century) on the way to Haatey Overnight : Lechuna Heritage Lodge.

Day 02: Village Walk ( 4-5hrs)
This cultural landscape is exemplary of the traditionally distinct, rural Bhutan. Forest, fields and farm houses dominate the landscape. Your day begins with a small ceremony at the Chundu Lhakang and continue  walking through the lower village of Lechuna down to the Haa Chhu (river) before crossing a quaint wooden bridge. From here the walk to the Jamte Gompa is a gradual ascent of not more than 1.5 hours through pristine forest which later opens up to the village. Visit the 300 year old plus monastery, which is presently undergoing renovation work due to earthquake damage. This is followed by a visit to a local farmers house for a cup of tea and 'zau'. The views of the southern Haa valley can be enjoyed best from here. After the tea break we will take a seldom-used animal track that connects onto to the main trail after about half an hour and continue on to the Chumpa Bridge to stop for a picnic lunch beside the river. After lunch we walk slowly through the beautiful Chuma village taking time to see the villagers at work and even have some interaction. Walking along the village path we continue on to our lodge in time for high tea. For those who are interested in looking around the village our guide can accompany them.. Overnight: Lechuna Heritage Lodge.

Day 03:  Trek to Choedue via Sagala Pass (6hrs)
After early breakfast drive to the village of Thalung. From here we commence out trek crossing yak grazing meadows for a little over an hour begin the ascent towards Saga La .The walk through old pristine alpine forest trail that once connected the two valleys of Haa and Paro, climbing gradually all the up to the pass which is 3720 meters.  After a short lunch break, begin the decent  and for the next 2.5 hours before the valley suddenly opens up and the camp site at Choedue(2865 m) is reached.. Overnight: Camp
Walking Time: 6hrs. Altitude gain: 740m Altitude loss: 855.
 
Day 04:  Excursion to Yak Herders Camp (6hrs)
Today will be a full day excursion to the Yak Herders camp (3560m). We start off with a climb to the base of a hill through forest of spruce, fir hemlock and rhododendron, till we reach the yak herders camp. Spend time by the camp with views of the mountains and a picnic lunch. We make our way back through a different  trail that meanders downhill through the pristine forest , the view of Tiger’s Nest and the Paro valley can be seen as we make our way back to the camp. The highlight of the day will be a traditional stone bath prepared with mineral rich mountain water close by the campsite before dinner
Walking Time: 6hrs. Altitude gain: 695m Altitude loss: 695,
 
Day 05: Paro
After breakfast follow the old trail to the restored fortress of Drukgyel Dzong which once served as a bastion against the Tibetan invasions from the north.  Pick up by your vehicle and drive to Paro with stop at town. Check into  Nemjo Heritage Lodge.  In the evening a cultural program with cocktail, snacks and followed by dinner will be organized.
 
Day 06: Hike to Taktsang Monastery
 Early morning start for hike up to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (3120m), perched high above the Paro valley. The monastery is perched some 2,000ft up on a cliff overlooking the valley and was said to be where the legendary Indian saint, Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tigress to defeat five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan.
The excursion will take anywhere between 4 to 5 hours so lunch will be served on the way down from the monastery at the View point restaurant.  Once down in Paro valley complete the day with visit to the Taa dzong Museum and the Paro Rinpung dzong.  Farewell dinner at Nemjo Heritage
 
Day 07: Transfer to the airport for departure