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West at its Best(5N/6D)

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West at its Best

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Tour Overview

The Western Bhutan tour is a journey through stunning landscapes, rich culture, and historic landmarks, exploring the picturesque valleys of Paro, the vibrant city of Thimphu, and the breathtaking Punakha Valley. This tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance, allowing visitors to immerse in Bhutan’s vibrant culture. From the majestic Himalayan mountains to the serene valleys and rivers, the Western Bhutan tour is an unforgettable adventure that showcases the country’s untouched beauty, unique traditions, and harmonious way of life, leaving visitors with lifelong memories of this incredible destination.

  • Duration : 05 Days
  • Main Attractions : Buddha Dordenma Statue, CSI Market, Paro Taktshang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Punakha Dzong

Day 1 : Arrive Paro and drive to Thimphu

Once you land at Paro International airport, you will be greeted by our representative. Thimpu is located 50 km far from Paro. Driving through the Paro Valley, you will arrive at the meeting point of Paro and Thimpu Rivers at Chuzom. Passing along scenic chortens, we will follow the tapered section to Simtokha Dzong and reach Thimpu where we will stay overnight.

Day 2 : Thimphu sightseeing and drive to Punakha

We will visit National Library in Thimpu. We will also visit Painting School and Handicraft Emporium where we can buy souvenir items for our near ones. We will hike to Tango Monastery and Tashichho Dzong and head east to cross Dochula Pass (3150m) afterwards which we will reach Punakha- the old winter capital of Bhutan. The top of Dochula Pass allows unobstructed views of Eastern Himalaya including Gangkar Punsum (7550m) which is the highest Mountain of Bhutan. We will lower down through forest to Punakha valley

Day 3 :Punakha sightseeing and drive to Wangdue phodrang

We will start our tour in Punakha by visiting Punakha Dzong. We need to cross the suspension bridge to reach this holy site. Situated in between two rivers of Pho Chu and Mo Chu, Punakha fortress is known for its most detailed temple in Bhutan which was founded in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Punakha is used as the winter residence by Je- Khenpo. Our next stop will be at Khamsum Yuley Lakhang or Chimi Lakhang temple- the fertility temple. After the tour, we will drive to Wangdue Phodrang

Day 4 : Wangdue phodrang – Thimphu- Paro

Wangdue Phodrang is located 135km far from Paro. Early in the morning, we will start Wangduephodrang sightseeing tour by visiting Wangdue Phodrang Dzong (fort) which was established in 1638 at the meeting point of Mo Chu River and Tang Chu River. We will cross Pelela Pass (3250 m) to visit Chendebji Monastery. We will leave Wangdeu Phodrang and drive for three hours to reach Paro via Thimpu.

Day 5 : Paro Sightseeing and hike up to Taktsang monastery

We will take brief hike to Taktsang which is popular as a Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The site is sacred to Bhutanese. According to the popular belief, Guru Rinpoche flew to Bhutan from Tibet on the back of Tiger in 8th century and chose this spot for meditation. This Monastery exists in the rocky cliffs that towers to 900m above Paro Valley. 2 hrs of moderately challenging hike will take us to the Monastery. We will also visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong. This fort celebrates the victory of Bhutanese over raiding Tibetans. The fort offers stunning view of Chomolhari Mountain on a clear day. We will return to the hotel where we will stay overnight.

Day 6 : Depart Bhutan

Our representative will arrange for private vehicle to take you to Paro Airport little earlier than your scheduled flight from where you will board a plane for your onward destination. We hope to see you again.

What's Included in Package

✅Accommodation
✅Meals
✅Transportation
✅Tourist Guide
✅Fees & Permits
✅Adventure Equipment’s
✅Camp Assistances
✅All services and Assistance

What's not Included in Package

❌Flights: Domestic and international
❌Insurance (Travel and Health)
❌Personal Expenses

Contact details

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Buddha Dordenma Statue

Buddha Dordenma Statue /

BUDDHA DORDENMA STATUE

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Buddha Dordenma Statue

The Dordenma Buddha is a colossal statue measuring 51 meters high, built of bronze covered in gold plating. It sits atop the ridgeline that divides the city into the upper Thimphu valley (where the population is concentrated) and the more rural lower valley, which extends southward toward the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu Chhu rivers.

The statue was funded by a consortium of businessmen from Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China, with groundbreaking in 2006. The construction effort, lasting nine years and costing at least $100M, was completed on September 25, 2015. Coinciding with the 60th birthday of His Majesty, King Jigme Singye, the 4th ruler of the Wangchuck dynasty, the statue was formally dedicated as part of the centennial of the monarchy’s establishment. The consecration was overseen by Bhutan’s highest religious authority, the Je Khenpo (Trulku Jigme Chhoeda, with term 1996-present). In 2019, the organizers of the effort, the Buddha Dordenma Project, formally transferred authority over the site to the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan on June 26, 2019.

According to the Tourism Council of Bhutan, the statue’s presence fulfills an 8th-century prophecy from Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, rediscovered by Tertön Pema Lingpa (1450-1521). According to the Buddha Dordenma organization, the specific prophecy stated, “A Shakyamuni statue would be built…in the region between Wong and Paro, to bestow blessings of peace and harmony in the world.” The auspicious location was formerly the home of the Kuensel Phodrang palace, built by Sherab Wangchuk (1697-1767), the thirteenth Druk Desi (secular ruler of Bhutan). The palace was largely in ruins and essentially lost at the opening of the twenty-first century; hence, the statue’s construction did not involve the demolition of any pre-existing cultural heritage.

The bronze statue comprises a mandala-shaped base 18.9 meters in height, surmounted by a 42.3 meter-high image of the Buddha Shakyamuni. The Buddha is rendered in the bhumisparsha mudra, in which the left palm faces upward while the right hand is pointed down toward the earth, calling her to witness his enlightenment following his triumph over the demon Mara. The interior of the statue is hollow and was designed to house upwards of 100,000 twenty-centimeter Buddha figurines sponsored by individual donors. A further 25,000 thirty-centimeter images are housed in the base of the throne. It is unclear how many were ultimately installed, as the five-story halls within the throne base are off-limits to photography, and the interior of the Shakyamuni image is wholly inaccessible—making the Buddha image a sort of living chorten; a reliquary within a reliquary.

The matryoshka-like nature of the Buddha’s body is a somewhat unique feature. Dev Nath Pathak, a professor of sociology at South Asian University, noted that the visitor approaching the Buddha image from the exterior cannot make eye contact with the colossal statue. However, the visitation becomes more “intimate and accessible to the ordinary worshippers” (Pathak, p. 221) when one enters the throne hall and its attendant lhakhangs, filled to the brim with thousands of figurines.

Further bringing the scale of the design down closer to the human level, a series of gold-plated dakini or apsara statues ring the edges of the site. These sinuous images stand perpetual sentinel, guarding the perimeter of the mountaintop as they gaze upward at the Buddha in serene triumph.

While the Dordenma Buddha Statue is a modern monument, the history of titanic metal Buddha images dates back many hundreds of years. Among the oldest extant examples is the much smaller 13th-century Daibutsu Buddha, cast in 1252 in Kamakura, Japan.

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Drukgyal Dzong

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Drukgyal Dzong

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Drukgyal Dzong

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Now in ruins, Drukgyel Dzong is a fortress which was built in 1649 to mark the victory of Bhutan over Tibet. If you want to see the fascinating stone work of the Dzongs of the past, then this is the place to go to. On climbing to the top of the ruins, an amazing view of the valley greets you, making it worth the effort.

Located in the upper part of Paro district, the fire that broke open in 1951 engulfed the Drukgyel Dzong in flames and left it in the current situation. The efforts have been started by the government to reconstruct it and bring it back to life and glory which it deserves. Despite its ruined state, its grandeur has not diminished even a bit. Perhaps that is why it is a UNESCO structure and attracts thousands of eyeballs from all over the world every year.

Once a fortress and Buddhist Monastery, Drukgyal Dzong is now in ruins and famed as one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in Bhutan. Situated on a ridge in the upper Paro Valley, Drukgyal Dzong was constructed by Tenzin Drukdra at the behest of Ngawang Namgyel in the year 1649 to commemorate the victory over the Tibetan-Mongol forces. Destroyed by fire in the early 1950s, Drukgyal Dzong has today become one of the popular tourist attractions of Paro. The ruins are well preserved making it an impressive and imposing sight. Travellers visiting the site can understand or distinguish the features of the complex without much difficulty. Even though a majority of components of the Dzong are almost totally missing but some of the portions of stone and rammed earth wall structures still stands imposing. These remains let the visitors understand ideas and practices that were used for defence in the past.

Coming to the architecture of the Durkgyal Dzong, it comprises Utse, the central tower building, Shabkhor, rectangular buildings that surround the courtyards. Also, there are secret tunnels with protected passages that allowed to fetch water from the river below and send the troops during the time of war. The Chu-Dzong (waterfront), a cylindrical tower building is yet another (water fort) can be seen that have paths enclosed by defensive giant walls. A visit to Drukgyal Dzong which gives the best travel experience to the travellers, especially the archaeological buffs.

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Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong /

Tashichho Dzong

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Tashichho Dzong

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Tashichho Dzong is a gorgeous Buddhist monastery and fortress on the bank of the Wang Chu river in the northern edge of Thimphu city in Bhutan. In Bhutanese language the Dzong refers to a“Fortress” and every district in the country is blessed with this unique architecture.
Tashichho Dzong is decorated with an illustrious history, glorifying architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. Tashichho Dzong is one of the prime places to visit in the capital city of Bhutan. The  Tashichho Dzong is one of the most beautiful dzongs to have graced Bhutan. 
Also famous by the moniker “Thimphu Dzong”, this elaborate structure takes you back in time. Located beside the Wangchu River, it looks like an attractive painting out of a textbook. The impressive structure is in its full glory all throughout the spring season, when all the blossoms decorate the entire place.

This serene palace also houses a monastery and temple. Currently, it also acts as the chief administrative building, housing the Bhutanese government. Offices of other departments are set across the building. The Dzong also serves as the summer residence of His Holiness who also is the Chief Abbot of the Religious Body.
With so much to uncover within its perimeter we are sure that a visit to this place will be a rewarding experience, that you will treasure forever.

Built on the right side of the Wangchu River, the Tashichho Dzong Thimphu is the seat of the Bhutanese Government since 1952. The fortress is also known as Thimphu Dzong, and the site has been witness to crucial moments in the history of Bhutan. The fortress was first constructed in 1216 A.D. by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa and rebuilt by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1641 and renamed from Dho Ngon Dzong to its current name of Tashichho Dzong. The fortress consisted of two Dzongs, the original and the lower Dzong built by Zhabdrung. After the original Dzong was destroyed by fire in 1771, everything was moved into the lower Dzong which is now known as the Tashichho Dzong fortress and has been expanded several times over the centuries.  The fortress was again damaged during the 1897 earthquake and rebuilt in 1902 and was renovated completely under King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck and enlarged in a period of 5 years from 1962.

Tashichho Dzong Bhutan became the seat of the government of Bhutan and is the location of the Throne room and the offices of King of Bhutan and the secretariat. The northern part of the fortress is the central Monastic Body and the summertime residence of the Je Khenpo and the summer capital of the country. The Tashichho Dzong houses 30 temples, chapels and shrines and is the site for the Thimphu Tsechu festival. The Dzong has also hosted the National Assembly until 1993.

 

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Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong /

PUNAKHA DZONG

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Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-colored jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to the dzong’s characteristically towering whitewashed walls. This dzong was the second to be built in Bhutan and it served as the capital and seat of government until the mid-1950s. All of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here.

The Punakha Dzong (the palace of great happiness or bliss), is the administrative centre of Punakha District in Punakha, Bhutan. The dzong was constructed by Ngawang Namgyal, in 1637–38. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures. The dzong houses the sacred relics of the southern Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, including the Rangjung Kasarpani and the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal and the tertoen Pema Lingpa.

The Dzong is located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers in the Punakha–Wangdue valley. The source of the Mo chu river is in the northern hills of Ligshi and Laya in Bhutan, and in Tibet. The Pho Chu River is fed by glaciers in the Lunana region of the Punakha valley. After the confluence of these two rivers, the main river is known as Puna Tsang chu.

In view of the healthy climate in the region, Punakha is the winter capital of Bhutan. The head of the clergy of Bhutan with his entourage of monks spend the winter in this dzong. Jacaranda trees grow around the dzong, blooming with mauve flowers in the spring. Punakha is also the center of Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge (Punakha Suspension Bridge) and is about 7.5 km (4.5 miles) by car to Chimi Lhakhang, the Divine Madman’s fertility temple.

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National Museum of Bhutan

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NATIONAL MUSEUM

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National Museum of Bhutan

It is located in the Paro district in western Bhutan. Established in 1968, the museum houses some of the finest specimens of Bhutanese art, including master pieces of bronze statues and paintings. Today, the national museum has in its possession over 3,000 works of Bhutanese art, covering more than 1,500 years of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.

Set in Paro Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan is sure to answer the queries of the history buffs. The popular tourist attraction is a cultural museum which was established in the year 1968 to house some finest specimen of Bhutanese art including bronze paintings and statues. Today the museum has more than 3,000 works of Bhutanese artefacts and artworks including traditional weapons, costumes, armour, handcrafted implements and covering more than 1,500 years of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. Tourists visiting the museum will get an opportunity to learn about the unique Bhutanese history with its rich holding of various creative traditions and disciplines. The ambience of the museum represents a remarkable blend of the past with the present which is an experience not to be missed when holidaying in Paro. As the tourists indulge in exploring the museum, they would come across the Natural History Gallery and Ritual Objects that showcases objects like daggers, headdresses, thunderbolts, robes, cymbals, musical instruments appropriate to Buddhist ceremonies. Further ahead, there is the Chapel of Wealth Deity and Thangkas that has a range of paintings of natural mineral pigments. A visit to the museum will bring one close to a collection that can best show the rich cultural traditions of the country.

Coming to the architecture of the museum, the unusual round building is said to resemble a conch shell. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum but tourists can make the best use if their photography skills by capturing the ta dzong (watchtower) and the surrounding grounds. In addition to this, once tourists are done with visiting the museum, one can take down a path from the museum to the dzong and back to the town. Indulging in this short hike will give the travellers an opportunity to enjoy good views of the valley and of the Ugyen Pelri Palace.

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Taktshang Monastery

Taktshang Monastery /

TAKTSHANG MONASTERY

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Taktshang Monastery

Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is located in Paro district, Bhutan. The monastery is one of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayan. Taktsang clings to the rock towering 800m (2,600feet) above the valley and is located 2,950m (9,678 feet) above the seal level. It takes about 2 to 3 hours (depending on your fitness level) to climb to the monastery from the road of Ramthangkha, 12 kilometres from Paro town.

The Legend and History

The legend of Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) evolved form 747 AD when Guru Padmasmbhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche) chose a cave on a sheer rock face to meditate and, assuming a wrathful form, Guru Dorji Drolo, astride a tigress to subdue the evil spirits in the locality. Legend has it that the tigress was actually Yeshi Tshogyal, a consort of Guru Rinpoche, who has transformed herself into a fearsome animal to subjugate spirits. It is also said that Yeshe Tshogyal transformed herself into a tigress to carry Guru Rinpoche on her back from Singye Dzong in Eastern Bhutan to Taktsang. Guru Rinpoche then performed meditation at the very same site and emerged in eight incarnated forms (manifestations). Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest monastery) thus became one of the most important Buddhist sacred sites in the Himalayan Buddhist world.

At Taktsang, Guru Rinpoche revealed the Mandala of Pelchen Dorje Phurpa, and delivered sublime teachings to his disciples. He meditated in the cave for 3 years 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days before subjugating the malicious spirits, and concealed profound treasures for the benefit of sentient beings.

Tips for Visiting Tiger’s Nest

  • Start early if you want to avoid the crowd and the heat.

  • Wear a pair of good walking shoes to protect your ankles, bring a hat and sunscreen.

  • You can also rent a walking stick at the base of Tiger’s Nest if required.

  • Stay hydrated and take your time. The ascent gains an elevation of 700 m, although it is below an altitude of 3000m, it is wise to pace yourself to avoid overexertion and result in altitude sickness.

  • Regulate your breathing to avoid panting. You will expend more energy if you pant.

  • Bring a warm jacket as your body cools down pretty fast when you are visiting the temple.

  • Bring some snacks to chew on once you reach the peak to restore your energy and keep warm for the return journey.

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Dochula Pass

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DOCHULA PASS

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Dochula Pass

The Dochula pass is the most well known pass in Bhutan, located an hour from Thimphu at an altitude of 10,000 feet. It is on the way to Punakha (also a favorite destination among tourists and locals alike). There are 108 stupas overlooking the Himalayas. When the sky is clear, the Mountain View is spectacular. The pass is a popular destination among tourists as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. Dochula Pass—a beautiful mountain pass, which is about 20 km from Thimphu is a concentration of 108 memorial stupas known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens.” It’s not just a place of historical and religious importance, but also a popular tourist attraction that any traveler would want to witness on their journey through Bhutan. The best time to visit Dochula Pass, Bhutan is from September to February for picturesque and closer views of the snow-laden Himalayas. 

Dochula Pass altitude: 3,100m
Dochula Pass weather & temperature: Cold winds. Minimum 2°C and maximum 8°C

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The National Memorial Chorten (stupa)

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MEMORIAL CHORTEN

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The National Memorial Chorten (stupa)

Built in the memory of the third Druk Gyalpo (Head of Kingdom) of Bhutan, the National Memorial Chorten is devoted to World Peace. The Chorten started gaining popularity amongst the localities when various major Buddhist religious festivals started taking place at the Chorten and it is one of the best places to see in Thimphu Bhutan. The word “Chorten” literally translates to “Seat of Faith”, and the structure itself has become an important part of the Bhutanese culture. You can spot various Buddhists circumambulating around the Chorten all throughout the day. The Memorial also attracts a lot of tourists from around the world due to its architectural and deep connection with Bhutan’s rich culture.

Situated well within the capital city Thimphu. the Stupa was initially built in the year 1974 and thereafter, witnessed a massive renovation in the year 2008. The Chorten is also famous as the “most visible religious structure of Bhutan.” 

Unlike other traditional Stupas, this monument does not enshrine any of the human remains. It holds only one photo of Druk Gyalpo in traditional Bhutanese dress in the massive hall on the ground floor.

Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day. Chorten literally means ‘Seat of Faith’ and Buddhists often call such monuments, the ‘Mind of Buddha’.  The chorten is an extraordinary example of Buddhist architecture and artwork with its gorgeous paintings and intricate sculptures.

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Merak Sakteng Trek

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Merak Sakteng Trek

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Tour Overview

Venture into the uncharted territories of East Bhutan on a unique trekking adventure that delves into the fascinating world of the Brokpa people. This semi-nomadic tribe, of Tibetan origin, welcomes you to experience their distinct culture, traditional attire, and timeless way of life. As you hike through the breathtaking pastoral valleys of the protected Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll discover the untouched beauty of Merak and Sakteng villages, and gain a profound understanding of the Brokpa’s remarkable heritage.

  • Duration : 17 Days
  • Difficulty Level : Difficult

Day 1 : Arrival at Paro airport

Upon your arrival to Bhutan, we will first take you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The drive will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes along a river valley, past small villages and traditional farmhouses, through peaceful countryside. We will arrange a perfect meal for you in Thimphu after which we will take a stroll around the Thimphu town.

Day 2 : Thimphu Sightseeing

We will give you a tour of whole Thimphu exploring the most famous tourist spots around, most famous of all being The Memorial Chorten, Buddha point, Farmers’ Market, Folk Heritage Museum, Thimphu Tashichho Dzong and more.

Day 3 :Thimphu - Punakha

Enjoy scenic drive to Punakha. Stop at Dochula pass (3150 meters) where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. When you arrive at Metshina Village, you can take 20-minute walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the Divine Madman’s temple popularly considered to be a temple of fertility. Take lunch in one of the restaurants and continue drive to Punakha. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, which is noteworthy for being one of the most beautiful Dzongs in Bhutan. Overnight hotel in Punakha.

Day 4 : Punakha - Gangtey / Phobjika Valley

About 30 minutes drive from Punakha; you will arrive at Wangduephodrang, the last town before central Bhutan. The district is famous for its fine bamboo work and stone carving. From Wangduephodrang, the road winds up through dense forests of oak and rhododendrons till Lawala pass, which is blanketed with dwarf bamboos. The pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains. Drive downhill for little while and you will be awestricken by the stunning views of Gangtey Goenpa and Phobjikha Valley. Visit Gangtey Goenpa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan. Later in the afternoon, you can hike in Phobjikha valley, the home to the rare Black Necked Cranes, which migrate from the Tibetan plateau to escape the harsh winter. Overnight in hotel in Phobjikha.

Day 5 : Phobjika / Gangtey to Bumthang

Today you will head Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s the royal family and from where the first two kings ruled the kingdom. The route is along a spectacular winding road, where the popular Bhutanese film “Travellers and Magicians” was shot. Lunch will be served at Trongsa. After lunch, visit Trongsa Dzong, the masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. You will then proceed to Bumthang, which is often described as the spiritual heartland of the kingdom. En route, visit the Yathra (textile weaving) factory, where the yathras are designed with patterns unique to Bumthang, and you can even watch some of the weavers at their looms. Overnight hotel in Bumthang.

Day 6 : Bumthang Halt

This day begins with visit to Jambay Lhakhang. Followed by visits to Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang and Nyingma Goenba. After lunch, we visit Jakar Dzong, (the Castle of white bird). In the evening, we will visit a Farmer’s House for Bhutanese Tea, Alcohol and Traditional Hot Stone Bath (Dhotsho). We can also organize overnight stay in Farm House. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel, Bumthang or Farmer’s House.

Day 7 : Bumthang to Mongar

The long drive from Bumthang to Mongar lends itself to some spectacular views, sheer drops and rushing waterfalls. The road passes through beautiful Ura Village and then ascends to Thurmshingla pass (3800m) with spectacular mountain views. Then the road descends to Kuri Zampa (570m above the sea level) through ever changing vegetation. From here, you will climb again about 1100m to Mongar town located on the hillside. You can browse through Mongar town and see the lifestyle of the people, which is different from western and central Bhutan. Overnight hotel in Mongar.

Day 8 : Mongar to Trashigang

Today you will drive to Trashigang passing through several villages. When you reach Chazam Bridge, you will take a turn-off road, which goes to Gom Kora temple. You will visit this temple. It is said that Guru Rinpoche meditated here and you can see the impression of his thumb, his hat, and his body on the rock near the temple. You will then drive to Trashigang and visit the town area. Overnight hotel in Trashigang.

Day 9 : Trashigang to Chaling to Donmang Chu (Trek starts)

Today, you will drive to Chaling passing through Radhi village. Your trekking crew and pack animals will be waiting here for you. Trek starts with gradual climb towards Shaktimi meadow. You will see yaks and sheep grazing with yak herders’ huts dotted on the hills side. Climb further to reach Mendula Pass at 3354m. From this pass, you will descend through rhododendron forests till Donmong Chu at 3124m.

Day 10 : Donmang Chu to Merak

The trail from Domong Chu to Merak mostly follows the river bends. The final stretch has gentle ascend before you Gangu village. After another 45 minutes walk from this village, you will arrive at Merak located at an altitude of 3520m. The campsite located before the village has spectacular views of nearby mountains and village. Visit the local village and meet with the people.

Day 11 : Merak to Miksateng

Today is the toughest journey of the trek crossing the highest Nachungla pass at 4153m. From the campsite climb gradually to the first pass at 3900m from where you can make last glimpse of Merak valley. Continue the trek along the tree line of juniper and rhododendron forests and conquer the Nachungla pass. Then you will descend to Miksateng at 3079m.

Day 12 : Miksateng to Sakteng

First, you will descend to the river, cross it and then follow the riverbank for few hours. Then climb gradually to a hill adorned by small Chorten (Stupa) overlooking the Sakten valley. If you are lucky, you can spot red panda among the trees. Drop down from the ridge and camp on the outskirts of the Sakten village at 2950m.

Day 13 : Explore Sakteng

You will visit Sakteng village and explore the lifestyle and unique culture of this ethnic group.

Day 14 : Sakteng to Joenkhar Teng

Today’s journey will be a longer and so we will start early from the camp. Leaving Sakten, start with short climb to the small hill towards the west end of the village. Then descend down to the river and walk alongside it through the broad leaf forests. We camp in a beautiful meadow near the river by Joenkhar Teng village (1733m). Joenkhar Teng is situated on the hillside and its population comprises of Brokpa and Sharchopa with a community school and an outreach clinic. Overnight in camp.

Day 15 : Joenkhar Teng to Phongmey to Trashigang (Trek ends)

The last day of the trek begins with short climb through the Joenkhar Teng. Cross few of suspension bridges and short climbs to reach Phongmay. Meet your transport and drive to Trashigang. En route you can visit Radhi and Tsangkhar Villages, which are renowned for “bura” gho and kira, a textile made from raw silk. Little further is Rangjung and you can visit the Ranjung Monastery, founded by the HH Garab Rimpoche. Check into hotel on arrival. Overnight hotel in Trashigang.

Day 16 : Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar

After breakfast, you will drive to Samdrup Jongkhar. Few miles drive from Trashigang is Sherubtse the first premier college in the country. The impressive clock tower and green surrounding give this college the feel of a Himalayan hill station. You will stop at Khaling to visit some of the shops and interact with locals. You will have your lunch in one of the local restaurants on the way. You will arrive at Samdrup Jongkhar after passing through varied villages, landscapes and forests. Overnight hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar.

Day 17 : Depart Bhutan

After breakfast, you will drive to Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. You will be driving through tea gardens, transparent rivers interspersed with quiet villages, and small townships of vibrant culture. From Guwahati you will fly to other destination.

What's Included in Package

✅Accommodation
✅Meals
✅Transportation
✅Tourist Guide
✅Fees & Permits
✅Adventure Equipment’s
✅Camp Assistances
✅All services and Assistance

What's not Included in Package

❌Flights: Domestic and international
❌Insurance (Travel and Health)
❌Personal Expenses

Contact details

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