Experience the cultural heart of Bhutan with our Hiking & Tour Bumthang Cultural Trek- 12 Days. This blend of trek and city tour takes you through the Bumthang Valley, passing through several villages and ancient Buddhist temples, including the Ugyen Chholing Palace, home to descendants of Bhutan’s royal families.
Our expert guide will take you on a meandering route through the Bumthang countryside. Offering stunning panoramic views of the pristine environment. This 12-day tour package includes accommodation in a hotel, meals, transportation, and more, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
While a short trek in Bhutan is only three or four days, an average trek is a week. However, this trek takes you on a unique and unforgettable journey, featuring some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries in the nation. With almost unbelievable changes in elevation, this trek is physically demanding but worthwhile for those seeking an adventure in Bhutan.
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s living culture, where festivals and cultural events are a part of daily life, not just creations for tourism. Join us on our Hiking & Tour Bumthang Cultural Trek- 12 Days and experience the beauty and culture of Bhutan with Female Guide Kathmandu.
Important Note:
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Female Guide Holiday. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary. When deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full cooperation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Female Guide Holiday. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4592ft)
The flight into Nepal is breathtaking, with views of the Himalayas and lush green hills. A representative from Female Guide Kathmandu will meet you, drive you to your hotel, and assist you in check-in. After a brief rest head out and take a stroll around Thamel, a lively tourist hub. Later in the evening join in for a special welcome dinner and cultural show at an authentic Nepalese restaurant. Meals: Welcome Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 2 :
Sightseeing Kathmandu (1,400 Meters/ 4,593 Feet)
Tour the world heritage sites of Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa. The Durbar Square provides insight into the perceptions of ancient royals. For all Hindus, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites. The Monkey Temple known as Swayambhunath, and the Boudhanath Stupa is one of the world’s biggest stupas. After the tour is completed head towards your accommodation. Later stroll around Thamel a tourist hub of the region. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel
Day 3 :
Kathmandu (1,400 Meters/ 4,593 Feet) to Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet). Flight Time: 1 Hour 20 minutes. Kathmandu (1,400 Meters/ 4,593 Feet) to Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet). Flight Time: 1 Hour 20 minutes.
After breakfast head towards the airport and catch a flight to Paro. Upon your arrival in Paro, you'll be greeted by our representative from the Female Guide Kathmandu. Next head towards your accommodation. Later explore the city. Here visit the Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan's most iconic monastery. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived at the monastery on the back of a tigress and meditated here, which is why it's also known as the "Tiger's Nest." The excursion to the monastery takes approximately 5 hours round trip and is well worth the effort, with breathtaking views and fascinating history. In the afternoon, visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan. Originally built as a watchtower, it has been serving as the National Museum since 1967. Here, you'll find a captivating collection of art, artifacts, thangka paintings, and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps. Immerse yourself in Bhutan's rich cultural heritage and gain insight into the kingdom's history. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4 :
Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet) to Thimphu (2,334 Meters/ 7,657 Feet). Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes.
After breakfast head on a short drive towards Thimphu. The drive itself will be a feast for your eyes as you take in breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range. Once you've reach Thimphu and settled in at your hotel, your guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of Paro, allowing you to explore the city's numerous landmarks and cultural sites. Among the stops on your itinerary will be Dungste Lhakang, a temple built in the 15th century, and Rinpung Dzong, a fortress monastery that serves as a symbol of Bhutan's rich heritage and traditions. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the National Museum of Bhutan, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the country's history and culture. Additionally, you'll explore Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Bhutan, and learn about its significance as a sacred site for the Bhutanese people. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 5 :
Thimphu (2,334 Meters/ 7,657 Feet) to Trongsa (2,200 Meters/ 7,260 Feet). Driving Time: 7 Hours.
Today after breakfast head on a long drive to Trongsa. Along the way cross the Dochula pass. From the top of the pass soak in the grand views of several snowcapped peaks including Masagang, Tsendegang , Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Kangphugang, Zongaphugang. Upon reaching Trongsa head out to explore the magnificent city. First Visit the Gangtey Monastery and next head towards the Trongsa Museum, which is strategically located above the Trongsa dzong. The Ta Dzong, built in 1652, served as a watchtower for centuries and has been converted into a state-of-the-art museum at a cost of Nu. 97 million with funds from the Austrian government. The museum showcases the rich history of Bhutan and features a media room where visitors can watch a documentary program on the monarchy. The museum is dedicated to the coronation and centenary celebrations. After exploring the museum and learning about the country's rich history, head back to your accommodations. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 6 :
Trongsa (2,200 Meters/ 7,260 Feet) to Bumthang (2,600 Meters/ 8,530 Feet). Driving Time: 3 Hours
Today you will be heading on an exciting from Trongsa to Bumthang. The drive is regarded as on of the most interesting drives in Bhutan as it takes you across several villages and gompas taking you across the enchanting Chhume valley. Upon reaching Bumthang visit Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred place where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on the rock. Also, explore Tamzhing Monastery, known for its unique murals and ancient scriptures. After exploring these historic landmarks, take a leisurely stroll around the city, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture and traditions. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 7 :
Bumthang (2,600 Meters/ 8,530 Feet) to Ngala Lhakhang (2,895 Meters/ 9,500 Feet)
From today you will start the trek. After breakfast begin the adventure following the rapids of Chamkhar Chhu River traversing across meadows, woodlands of blue pines, and dense forests. Along the way pass several villages and temples. As you progress on the trail reach Thangbi Gompa and Ngang Lhakhang also renowned as Swan Land, built in the 15th century by Lama Namkha Samdrup, a contemporary of Pema Lingpa. After exploring around the Gompa head towards your accommodation. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 8 :
Ngala Lhakhang (2,895 Meters/ 9,500 Feet) to Ugyen Chholing (1,250 meters/ 4,101 Feet)
Today is your second day of the trek. Start by following the gentle trail up to Sambitang. Next, the trail takes you across lush agricultural fields and over a small hill followed by a descent to a stream. Following the stream climbs through a rhododendron forest and reaches the other side of the valley covered by dwarf bamboo. As you pass through this section witness small mani walla and the honing chorten. Following the downhill section reach the bottom of the valley. Here witness various side trails that lead to pasture lands and buckwheat fields. From here head towards the village of Tahung and Gamling. From Gamling cross a stream and start traversing on a ridge section. Along the way pass shortens and several large houses and eventually reach Ugyen Chholing. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 9 :
Ugyen Chholing (1,250 meters/ 4,101 Feet) to Bumthang (2,600 Meters/ 8,530 Feet)
Wake up early and after breakfast head out to explore the Ugyen Chholing Palace, a stunning classified mansion that also houses a small eco-museum. The walk to the Palace offers stunning views of the landscape around. After exploring the Palace head towards Bumthang, following the Tang Chhu River. En-route visit the Membertsho Lake where Terton Pemalingpa, is said to have discovered religious treasures in the 12th century. This lake is very sacred for the Bhutanese people. Upon reach Bumthang head towards your accommodation and later head out to explore around. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 10 :
Bumthang (2,600 Meters/ 8,530 Feet) to Punakha (1,242 Meters/ 4,074 Feet). Driving Time: 7 Hours
Embark on an exciting journey to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of Bhutan. Begin the tour by visiting the majestic Punakha Dzong, an ancient fortress built in 1637 by Zhabdrung, which served as the seat of the king until the time of the second king. Next, take a picturesque hike to the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, built by the renowned lam Drukpa Kuenley in 1499. The hike takes you across fields and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You will come across wooden phalluses hanging in the four corners of the houses, a common belief that drives away evil spirits. After the hike, return to your accommodations, feeling enriched by the cultural and natural beauty of Bhutan. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 11 :
Punakha (1,242 Meters/ 4,074 Feet) to Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet). Drive Time: 4 Hours.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Paro. Along the way, make a stop at Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan. Built-in 1627, it now serves as a religious studies school. In the afternoon, explore Paro by visiting Ta Dzong, which was originally built as a watchtower in 1967 but has since been converted into the National Museum of the Kingdom. Marvel at the impressive collection of art, artifacts, Thangkha paintings, and Bhutanese postage stamps on display. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll down a hillside trail to Rinpung Dzong. This historic fortress was constructed in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Bhutan's first spiritual and temporal leader. Today, it houses the monastic body of Paro and serves as the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. Enjoy a glimpse into Bhutan's rich history and culture as you explore this fascinating landmark. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 12 :
Paro (2,300 Meters/ 7,545 Feet) to Kathmandu (1,400 Meters/ 4,593 Feet). Flight Time: 1 Hour 20 minutes.
Today you’ll be leaving Bhutan. A Female Guide Kathmandu representative will drop you at the airport approximately 1-hour before your flight. If you have any inquiries or require assistance and further information about this trip or any other trips, please feel free to contact us. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel