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12 days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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Embark on a relatively easy trek that unfolds the beauty of lush valleys and meanders alongside crystal-clear, trout-filled rivers. Often referred to as the ‘cultural heartland’ of Bhutan, Bumthang welcomes you with ancient temples that add a rich cultural layer to your journey. Commencing in Paro, the adventure kicks off with visits to the historic Ta Dzong and the national museum, set within a ruined fortress.
The trek commences from Bumthang after an enlightening exploration of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Bumthang, characterized by its unique and expansive valley ranging from 8,000ft to 13,000ft, offers a distinct landscape. Ascend to the highest point of the trek at Phephela Pass (3,360 m), guided by enchanting forested areas with ample opportunities for leisure and contemplation. On the third day of the trek, a 6-8-hour walk concludes the journey at Mesithang.
Renowned for its cultural diversity and scenic panoramas, the Cultural Bumthang Trek unveils the richness of Bumthang (2600m). The trek encompasses visits to Ngang Lhakhang, Ugyenchholing, the Phephe – La Pass (3600m), and culminates at Mebartsho before returning to Bumthang.
This trek, emphasizing cultural exploration over high-altitude challenges, proves suitable for a wide range of trekkers. The Bumthang Cultural Trek, set in the historical district of Bumthang, serves as a gateway to Bhutan’s cultural heritage, featuring ancient temples and sacred sites. With no prerequisite trekking experience required, this trek invites those who are physically fit and able to walk a full day with a small day pack, as animals will carry the bulk of the loads.
Commence the journey with a scenic flight to Paro, offering breathtaking views of Paro Dzong and the Himalayas. Upon landing, be greeted by our Bhutanese guide from Unseen Valley Tours and Travel and transfer to your hotel. After a period of rest, receive a briefing on the trek itinerary. Overnight at Hotel.
Sightseeing and Acclimatization Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,180m/10,433ft) - 4 to 5 hours (5km) trek. Embark on an early morning hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, navigating a steep ascent through a pine forest. Enchanting sights include temples, a sacred pool, and the monastery seemingly perched on a cliff. Evening at leisure. Overnight at Hotel.
After breakfast, drive to the capital city, Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a shrine built in memory of the Late king, where worshippers circulate, chanting prayers.
Post breakfast, journey to Punakha through Dochula pass (3,080m), offering spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas. Explore Punakha Dzong, a massive structure at the confluence of two rivers. Later, visit Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.
Embark on the journey to Central Bhutan, driving approximately 7-8 hours from Thimphu to Trongsa and an additional 2 hours to Bumthang. Overnight at Bumthang.
Explore the unique Bumthang valley, characterized by lush valleys and hilly forests. Visit Jakar Dzong, Yathra (Textile Weaving) Factory, and explore Jambay and Kurjey in Bumthang.
Follow the Chamkharchu river, stopping for lunch at Thangbi Lhakhang. Enter Ngang Yul (Land of the Swan) and reach Ngang Lhakhang, the Swan Temple. Overnight halt at camp.
Cover about 22 kilometers in seven to eight hours, ascending to Phephe La Pass (3350m), the highest point of the Bumthang Cultural Trek. Visit Ugyen Choling Palace, a repository of ancient artefacts. Overnight at the guest house/tented camp.
Cover about ten kilometers in three to four hours, following Tang Chu river. Visit Tang Rimochen Lhakhang and Mebar Tsho (flaming lake). Transfer to Jakar.
Begin with Bumthang Market, then drive to Wangduephodrang/Punakha, visiting the typical Bhutanese town of Wangdue along the way. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast in Punakha, drive to Paro, exploring remaining sites and time for shopping. Overnight at Paro.
Transfer to Paro International Airport – Departure On this day, be driven to Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan, bidding farewell as you board the plane to your homeland
Unseen Valley Tours and Travel, as a local tour operator in Bhutan, offers a cost-effective alternative to booking through foreign travel agents. Booking directly can save money, and local operators are essential for arranging tourist visas.
Solo travel is welcomed in Bhutan. Unseen Valley Tours and Travel ensures that you can travel independently, providing you with an individual guide and driver. Group travel is optional and not enforced.
The best times to travel are from March to May and September to November. During these periods, the weather is favourable, and numerous festivals take place. While travel is possible year-round, June to August is slightly humid due to the monsoon, and December to February is the cold winter season.
As of June 20, 2022, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF or Royalty) is USD 100 per night per person. This fee is separate from the actual travel cost, which includes government-approved hotels, transportation, guide fees, and meals. The old Minimum Daily Tariff is no longer applicable.
Unseen Valley Tours and Travel can arrange your airline tickets with no commission fees involved. Alternatively, you can purchase tickets directly from the airlines' websites: Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines.
All visitors are advised to get travel insurance coverage from their own countries.
