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Bumthang Trek -13 Days

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One of the most trending treks in Bhutan is Bumthang Trek. Bhutan is the Buddhist Kingdom in the Himalayas that resides in Asia. Many travelers describe Bhutan as a religious, pleasant valley that exists together with nature. Bumthang Trek is a journey to explore several villages in Bhutan along with the cultural life of Bhutanese people.

Trip Duration : 13 Days
Max Altitude : 3120m
Group Size : 2 - 15
DIFFICULTY : Easy

Trip Overview

One of the most trending treks in Bhutan is Bumthang Trek. Bhutan is the Buddhist Kingdom in the Himalayas that resides in Asia. Many travelers describe Bhutan as a religious, pleasant valley that exists together with nature. Bumthang Trek is a journey to explore several villages in Bhutan along with the cultural life of Bhutanese people. This trek is normally suitable for trekkers who do not want the hardest Climb. The altitude of this trek is 11,155 ft which is suitable for any average climber. Thus, walking each day is steady and comfortable. There are plenty of ancient temples and monasteries to visit during this trek. As the people of Bhutan celebrate the major festival in Bumthang.

This Bumthang Trek is in the magnificent Bumthang valley which embraces stone monasteries, traditional stone houses, and markets. Another name for Buntham valley is Jakar which is one of the most sacred valleys in Bhutan.

 

Cultural Heartland of Bhutan

 

Also,  Bumthang is the Cultural Heartland of Bhutan. The prosperity of flora and fauna, the sweeping views of the valley underneath the hilltops, and the majestic views of the Himalayan spread broad vista is an experience to cherish for a lifetime.

The trek to Bumthang begins after the scenic flight over the tallest peak of the lush valley of Paro. After Paro, the trial proceeds to Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang, Ngang Lhakhang, and many other places across the valley. Besides, you may also visit various historical religious places such as Punakha Dzong, Wangduephodrang, Chimi Lhakhang, etc. Throughout the journey, one can enjoy the beautiful temperate forest of Blue pine, maple, chestnut, hemlock, fir along with the rhododendron field which adds extra spice to your journey. Additionally, it is home to ancient Buddhist Monasteries and temples. It is a land of lush forested valleys, protected monasteries, holy mountains, and art and architecture distinctive to this region. Besides, you can even explore the rural life of natives along with their attractive festivals.

However, the suitable season for the trek is from March to May and September to November. During this season the weather is fair and clear providing a stunning view of nature. Moreover, this season also provides you with the joy of festivals and events. Therefore, you will not only feel vigorous but experience the lifelong culture, and tradition of the typical village lifestyle of Bhutanese people.

SHORT ITINERARY

Day 01 :

Arrival

Day 02 :

Sightseeing

Day 03 :

Drive through Paro and Thimphu

Day 04 :

Sightseeing in Punakha

Day 05 :

Visit various famous places

Day 06 :

Sightseeing in Bumthang

Day 07 :

Visit Nyang Lhakhang

Day 08 :

Trekking from Nyang Lhakhang to Ugyen Choling

Day 09 :

Trek from Ugyen Choling to Bumthang

Day 10 :

Drive from Bumthang to Gangtey

Day 11 :

Drive from Gangtey to Paro

Day 12 :

Hike to Taktsang Monastery

Day :

Final Departure

Itenary note

Note: BD Plan, BL Plan, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch content will appear here. Above itinerary can be designed along your preferences. Please let us know whether you would like to make a shorter.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 01 Arrival

Your journey to Bumthang starts with the scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro International Airport. Our Airport representative will pick you up from the Airport terminal and transfer you to the hotel in our private jeep. We will then hold a pre-trek meeting where we will be giving you a short briefing about the trek preparation and introducing you to your guide. After that, you can either rest in the hotel or can even go for a walk in the evening. The next day is going to be the real rush. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02 Sightseeing

Early morning after breakfast you will make your way to Paro sightseeing. You will drive to Drugyel Dzong, a ruined fortress (16km from Paro Town). This place has its own historical significance. It was built in 1646 to honor Bhutan’s victory over Tibetian invaders during the 1600s. Besides, if the weather is clear you can see the peak of Mt Chomolhari, which is the 2nd highest peak in Bhutan at 7,314m. Besides, you can even visit Ta Dzong a fortified outlook tower that is now a national museum. Similarly, you can explore one of the oldest temples in Bhutan Kichu Lhakhang. In Addition, you can make your way to observe the typical Bhutanese farmhouse. In the evening you can take a relaxed ramble around Paro town. Overnight at Paro.

Day 03 Drive through Paro and Thimphu

Your journey to the capital of Bhutan Thimphu starts with an early morning drive from Paro. The drive takes you to the winding road alongside Paro Chu to the Wang Chu and then to the capital Thimphu. In Thimphu visit Buddha point for an incredible view of Thimphu city. On the way to the viewpoint of Thimphu, you can spare some time to observe the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. Subsequently, your trial continues to Tashi Choe Dzong- the castle of the illustrious religion constructed in 1641. Later King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck rebuilt it in the 1960s. Moreover, Thimphu is even popular for authentic craft Bazar. In the evening you can stroll around Thimphu. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

Day 04 Sightseeing in Punakha

After breakfast enjoys an early morning scenic drive to Punakha. After the half, hour drive to Punakha, climb up to the Mt road to Dochula La at 3140m. If the weather is clear you will be rewarded with the wonderful panorama of the eastern Himalayas. In addition, the pass descends through the forest of Rhododendron emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. On the way, stop at Metshina Village to take a short hike through the beautiful rice field to Chimmi Lakhang. It is a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley. Eventually, this temple has become a pilgrimage site for a couple who wished to have a child. After lunch, you can visit Punakha Dzong, situated in between male and female rivers like an anchored ship. Overnight at Punakha hotel.

Day 05 Visit various famous places

Bumthang is regarded as the cultural heartland of the country. So, after early morning breakfast, you will drive to Bumthang. The drive led you to the winding mountain road through the oak rhododendron forest over Phobjikha valley. After the exploration of the valley, you will stop at Trongsa for lunch and make your way to Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa Dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Moreover,  the trail re-enters the forest and reaches the Yotong La.  Similarly, the trials descend to a low point at a village named Chumey. From Chumey, you will proceed to Bumthang with the spectacular scenery of lush valleys and hilly forests. Furthermore, if you are interested you can even stop at a Yathra (textile-waving Factory). Overnight at a hotel in Bumthang.

Day 06 Sightseeing in Bumthang

Today you will embark on Bhutan’s central heartland passing through stunning lush valleys and impressive temples. You will reach Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of the valley- a town rich in stories and innumerable legends. From there, descend downwards into the town to explore the surroundings and walk over the suspension bridge. A little further, you will reach Kharchhu Goemba where young monks polished their debating skills. The next destination in Bumthang that awaits you is Jambay Lhakang- one of the oldest temples in Bhutan built in the 7th century. It is believed that Jambay Lhakang is one of the 108th temples built by the Tibetian King to fight a demon.

In addition, explore Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in Bhutan. It is said that Guru Rinpoche Left his body imprint on the cave while meditating. You will also have a chance to explore Tamshing Lhakhang where Buddhist paintings are preserved. Likewise, you can visit the local Bhutanese shop in the evening. Overnight at the hotel in Bumthang.

 

Day 07 Visit Nyang Lhakhang

Our hike starts from the small village of Thangbi (Thankabi) Goemba and follows the Chamkhar Chu, a river known for trout fish. After walking for an hour, we will pass the Zangling Lhakhang on the hill to the right. We will stop for lunch at Thangbi Lhakhang. After lunch, we will make our way to Ngang Yul (also known as the land of a swan). At the center of Nyang Yul, there lies the Nyang Lhakhang ( Swan Temple). In ancient days, the valley was occupied by a swan and thus named the Swan Valley. Overnight at the hotel in Nyang Lhakhang.

Day 08 Trekking from Nyang Lhakhang to Ugyen Choling

The trail today is longest than any other day. You will have to walk 14 miles within seven to eight hours. Consequently, the journey begins with Phephe La pass (3360m), the highest point of our trek. The trail passes through various forested areas with hills that provide picturesque natural views. From the top, we will descend down to Tang valley. Along the way, we will visit the Ugyen Choling Palace. It is a storehouse of artifacts of ancient nobility. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 09 Trek from Ugyen Choling to Bumthang

The trail today follows the Tang Chu, another trout fish river. Tang Rimochen Lhakhang is by the bank of the river which is one of the sacred places. It is said that Guru Rinpoche meditates in this place.  We will then descend down to Kizam. Our representative will pick you and drive to Mebar the lake ( Flaming Lake), a sacred site. The name Mebar refers to an episode in the 15th century when Terton Pemalingpa dived into the lake with a burning lamp. From there, the journey continues to Pangshing and leads all the way to Jakar.

Day 10 Drive from Bumthang to Gangtey

Early morning after breakfast we will drive to Gangtey. The road descends rapidly through a series in Trongsa. The drive offers a great view back to the Dzong and out across the valley. The trail passes through Yotong La and Chumey village and finally leads us to Gangtey. In the evening you can stroll around Gangtey.

Day 11 Drive from Gangtey to Paro

Today is the day when you return back to a place where you have started your journey. Early morning we will drive back to Paro crossing Dochula Pass. Today the returning trials pass through Punakha, Thimphu, and reached Paro. The drive will be longer than other days. Hence, it will be a 5-hour long drive with the scenic view offered by the journey. You can go for a leisurely walk around the market in Paro.

Day 12 Hike to Taktsang Monastery

Early morning after breakfast hike to Taktsang Monasteries also known as Tiger’s nest which is one of the ancient monasteries in Bhutan. The hike is 2-hour long. Taktsang Monastery is a sacred site of Buddhists and the temple is located on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley in Bhutan.  This monastery was first built in 1692.  It is said that Guru Padmasambhava has flown on the back of the tigress to meditate in the cave of these monasteries in the 8th century. This place has become a cultural icon of Buddhism. After exploring Taktsang Monasteries you can hike back to the road and drive to Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Ringpong Dzong. In the evening you can explore the Paro market. Overnight at the hotel in Paro

Day Final Departure

Today you will be bidding farewell to your Bumthang Cultural trek in Bhutan. Early morning after breakfast our representative will drop you off the Paro International Airport and wish you for your happy and safe journey.

Price Includes

  • Private transportation
  • Necessary Bhutan travel permits
  • English speaking Bhutanese guide and Driver
  • Accommodation on Twin sharing/ Single room basis.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis
  • Bhutan Government Royalty fee ($ 65 per person / per day)
  • Bhutan Visa fee
  • Flight fare for Kathmandu- Paro- Kathmandu or from other destination.

Price Excludes

  • Insurance of any kind.
  • Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance
  • Personal expenses such as drink, guide tips & etc.

Trip Info

Short Description Mode Of The Packages: What Are Included In The Packages

 

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast at 2 to 3 stars level, Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room in trekking, both ways domestic flight tickets from KTM/Lukla/KTM, necessary permits, all the ground transportation by tourist vehicles, an experienced guide and porter and all the necessary permits.

TREKKING EQUIPMENTS, GEARS & SOME MEDICINES

  We do recommend following equipment's for trekking and Hiking in Nepal.

Head

  • Sun hat
  • Scarf
  • Light balaclava
  • Warm wool hat
  • UV protection one Sunglasses
  • Head torch with extra batteries.

Upper Part Of The Body Upper

  • Tshirts
  • Shirts
  • Sleeveless or body warmer type fleece.
  • Long sleeve shirts
  • Thermal Vest
  • Down Jacket
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Pullover
  • Sports bras (women)
  • Waterproof outer jacket
  • Rain Coat
  • Hand wear
  • Fleece gloves.
  • Warms mittens or gloves.

Lower Body

  • Long Under Wear
  • Short Under Wear
  • Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
  • Warm Trousers
  • Tracksuit pants
  • Lightweight thermal trouser
  • Fleece pants
  • Cotton paints

Footwear

  • Thin inner socks
  • Thick warm wool hiking socks
  • Walking boots with ankle support
  • Trainers or trail shoes
  • Gaiters
  • Micro spikes

Electronics

  • Camera and Accessories
  • Phone
  • Power Bank
  • Solar Panel
  • Travel Adapter

Miscellaneous

  • Book
  • Playing Cards/Games
  • Journal and Pen
  • Snacks and Specialist Food

Hygiene & First Aid

  • Sunscreen
  • Insect Repellent
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper
  • Wet Wipes
  • Pocket Hand Warmers
  • Moisturizing skin cream and Lip balm
  • Toiletries
  • Water purifier
  • First Aid

Trek Essentials

  • Passport and Copy
  • Travel Insurance Details
  • Trekking Permit(s)
  • Waterproof Document Wallet
  • Cash

Recommended Medications

  • Guide will take a group first aid kit but please bring personal medications and other items you might use regularly such as
  • Any personal medications
  • Malaria prophylactic tablets
  • Blister treatment
  • Rehydration powder
  • Analgesics (Paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin)
  • Plasters and zinc oxide tape
  • Throat lozenges
  • Diamox

Other Equipment

  • Duffel Bag or Suitcase
  • Day pack
  • Sleeping bag
  • Water bottle
  • Trekking poles
  • Towel

FAQ

Q. Do you provide any gears for trekking?

A. Yes, we do provide roughly 65 liters one duffel bag, sleeping bag and down jacket to use for trekking without extra charge, if you do not have.

Q. Can I rent or buy gears in Kathmandu?

A. You can buy or rent trekking boots and rest of the gears, you need to need to buy.

Q. How much weight does porter carries?

A. We do provide one porter between 2 trekkers. One porter carries 25 to 30 kg respectively.

Q. How much weight does airplane allow to Lukla?

A. Twin Otter and Dornier planes are the primary mode of transport to and from the airstrip at Lukla. It allows 15kg per passenger, including had bag.

Q. Can I take some more gears for paying extra charge?

A. It is hard but some time, they do allow 2 to 3 kg with paying extra charge US$ 2 per kg

Q. When Should I pack my gears?

A. You will have pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu that night you pack trekking gears.

Q. What equipment should I carry at Daypack?

A. Most of our day packs have a capacity of roughly 20 to 24 liters. You need to carry only day use things like water bottle, light jackets, some extra shocks, sun hat, sunglasses, raincoat, light glove, scarf, toilet paper, and small towel, camera, some personal medical, Sunscreen, Passport, money, camera, trekking poles and some snacks. Rest of the gears will be carried by porter.

Q. Can I store suitcase and other unnecessary gears in hotel in Kathmandu or at your office?

A. Yes, you can store either at the hotel in Kathmandu or at our office without extra charge.

 TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc. For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please inquire with them.

  •  USA and Canada: Tugo, United Health Care, World Nomad, Blue Cross
  • Australia and New Zealand: Fast Cover, Allianz Australia
  • Singapore: Ergo, World Nomad (Explore plan level 3)
  • Europe: Europe Assistance, Austrian Alpine Club, Allianz Europe
  • India: ICICI Lombard

Reviews

EXCELLENT rating
Based on 26 reviews
Unique path trekking company has excellent staff on ground to make the trekking experience very enjoyable and memorable. The guide and porters go out of their way to make each and every member of the team feel safe and secured. Mr Babu the founder owner of the company is very responsive and is able to assist every member of the team with their individual needs. I would recommend engaging Unique Path for Himalaya trekking.
Sandeep Dasgupta
Sandeep Dasgupta
2023-09-30
I like trekking with Unique Path, the guides of this company many times made my way comfortable and safe. I traveled with them to Lobuche, Mera, Island and other places solo and in the groups with my friends. Unique Path is a reliable partner and I plan to trek with them again in Langtang region this autumn.
Andrey Oktyabrev
Andrey Oktyabrev
2023-05-29
I have used Unique Path three times and each time the team were all helpful, friendly and informative. Every aspect of our trip to Nepal was taken care of - Pick up at the airport to take us to our hotel. Next day the excitement of getting our trekking details and depending on the trip setting out with our guide and porter. My husband and I prefer to hike on our own, so we did no group options. Our itinerary was always followed exactly. When I go hiking in Nepal this company is my first point of contact. They are a great team and are totally recommended by me and my husband.
Sylvia Schillings
Sylvia Schillings
2023-05-29
Unique Path is a great choice for anyone who wants to explore the Himalayas. My wife and I made several treks with Unique Path to Manaslu, Kangchenjunga, Tilicho Lake, and Mustang. It goes without saying, that the scenery in Nepal is stunning. Lots of opportunity to learn about the culture and religion and traditions of Nepal. The people we met along the way were engaging and wonderful. Unique Path's staff was fantastic throughout all the trips. They were very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. They arranged everything from transportation to accommodation to food. They also provided all the necessary equipment and guidance and handled all the permit applications. I highly recommend Unique Path trekking to anyone who loves adventure and nature. These were once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I will never forget. I am available as a reference. David
DaveBessie Parsnick
DaveBessie Parsnick
2023-05-22
I have yet to conclude this trip due to the Pandemic but Babu's response and tour guide plan has been exemplary - I cannot wait to make the trip!
Rachel Glaysher
Rachel Glaysher
2023-05-19
Myself and 2 buddies hired Unique Path Trekking to coordinate an EBC trek back in 2014. We couldn't have been more happy with the results...Everything went flawlessly and we had the adventure of a lifetime. Babu and his staff / guides / porters were top-notch and I highly recommend them to anyone who may be reading this.
Marc Ferrari
Marc Ferrari
2023-05-18
As with all treks, there will be unforeseen circumstances and you’re always beholden to nature. So you want a guide and an agency that is not only experienced enough but also sensitive and quick to changes on ground. I am very grateful for the deep experience that our guide, Dambar had. He made us feel safe and constantly had everything under control despite the weather and some early sickness some of us had. Coupled with his sharp wit and deep knowledge, this became such an enjoyable climb that was filled with priceless stories that I can’t wait to tell the kids about. The porters too were a lively bunch that ultimately became friends and we shared lots of fun moments on the mountain together. Babu ensured that our arrivals, arrangements and any administrative hassles were smooth and out of our minds so we could focus on the climb ahead. Thank you Unique Path trekking & expedition. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a great time while knowing you’re in safe hands!
Josiah Ng
Josiah Ng
2023-05-16
We were very fortunate to have Unique Path Trekking for our EBC with 3 Himalaya passes expedition, we were so happy/satisfied with Unique Path trekking. Babu ( owner of Unique Path Trekking) is so kind, knowledgeable and mellow personality so does their staff ( all guides and porters ). We had great time during this expedition in terms of lodging/food. We had large group ( ~ 18 ppl ) and believe or not no one had any single complain of food. Their guides and porters are so knowledgeable, smart, humorous made our entire expedition lots of fun. They take care of us with positive attitudes with smiley face in entire trip. I definitely recommend Unique Path Trekking for any expedition in Himalaya ( we're looking forward to go with them in Annapurna expedition in near future ). You will very glad/happy if you choose Unique Path and Trekking.
Umesh Patel
Umesh Patel
2023-05-16
Babu and his group are exceptional We have done 2 trips organized by Babu We went to Everest base camp and recently to chitwan, Pokara and part of Annapurna cercuit Their guides are very good We will definitely use Babu and his guides again
Guru Motgi
Guru Motgi
2023-05-06
I just returned from a wonderful hike to Everest base camp with helicopter return. I was traveling solo am so grateful to Manager Babu and guide Suresh for looking after me. It is a trip I will remember the rest of my life. We started with a half day tour of Kathmandu and then flew to lukla on the next day to begin the trek. All the arrangements were made ahead of time and the folks unique path team constantly got on the phone to make sure the logistics went smoothly. Suresh kept a moderate pace and a great sense of humor. We made good time throughout the hikes and always got to the lodges on time and in daylight with energy left for the next day. The weather also cooperated this March and we had beautiful sunny skies and gorgeous Mountain View’s throughout the trek. I really could not ask for anything more and would very much recommend unique path
Janice Cheng
Janice Cheng
2023-05-06
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