STAGES 1 & 3
Trans Bhutan Trail: Haa, Punakha & Bumthang
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
Active cultural adventure on the kingdom’s ancient ancestral ‘highway’
Take this specially designed lodge-to-lodge hiking trip along some of our favorite sections of the cross-country Trans Bhutan Trail. Trek as much as you want, or as little, with van support each day, and back up alternatives for cultural activities in case the weather turns. Explore the countryside on foot and gain a direct, in-depth experience of Bhutanese culture and the kingdom’s dramatic Himalayan landscape; reconnect with old friends along the way.
HEALTH & SAFETY
UPDATED BOOKING & CANCELLATION POLICY
ITINERARY
Experience a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern progress on Stages 1 & 3 of the Trans Bhutan Trail. Each day brings new insights and encounters with warm-hearted Bhutanese people. Your active hiking journey through the key cultural centers of Bhutan begins with a flight to Paro, where you’re greeted by stunning mountain views. Starting in the far-western edge of Bhutan—the Haa Valley—take the steep cross-country trail back to Paro, home to over 155 temples and monasteries.
Next, trek from Paro to Tshaluna on the Trans Bhutan Trail, and continue on to the capital city of Bhutan, which retains its old traditional character despite a fast modernizing core.
Pick up the ancient trail again at Dochula, the high pass to Punakha, former capital of Bhutan until 1955. Known for rice farming, Punakha is home to Bhutan's longest suspension foot-bridge, part of the Trans Bhutan Trail, and the massive, ship-like Punakha Dzong, considered by many to be the most beautiful fortress in the kingdom.
Next, drive to Trongsa and, the following morning, take a drive to Yontongla Pass for another optional trek on the ancient route on the descent to Bumthang, the spiritual heart of the kingdom. Finally, hit the Trans Bhutan Trail again to scenic Tang Valley and stay at Ogyen Choling, the historic old manor and museum, before the short but dramatic mountain flight back to Paro.
VIEW DAY BY DAY
MAY 24: FLIGHT TO PARO FROM BANGKOK
Drukair flight KB 153 departs Bangkok at 5:00 AM and arrives in Paro at 07:15 AM.
Your Trip Leader Yeshey will greet you at the airport and, shortly after your arrival, you take the 2 & 1/2-hour drive together to Haa.
Arrive at the Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge, and settle into the beautifully restored 150-year-old former governor’s home in Haatey village. Start your trip with the first of many hot stone baths! The lodge combines traditional Bhutanese architecture—earthen walls, hand-painted murals, and timber beams—with modern comforts like heated rooms and small en-suite bathrooms and hot showers. Its tranquil setting in the Haatey village, amid the time-frozen circle of mountains, enhances its charm. Guests can enjoy authentic local cuisine, featuring the hearty regional buckwheat dumplings or Hoentey, and an opportunity to meditate in the lodge’s atmospheric private Buddhist chapel, an immersive experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Haa Zingkha Heritage Lodge
MAY 25: HAA PANORAMIC HIKE / EXPLORATION DAY
This morning, after a traditional breakfast at the lodge, we walk the narrow, rock-laid dirt paths of ancient Haatey Village and, crossing a metal suspension bridge, catch the trail that loops around the valley, offering panoramic views of Bhutan’s westernmost district center. The Haa Panoramic Hike weaves through pine forests and exposed ridges with colorful clusters of Buddhist prayer flags left by devout local families.
The Panoramic Trail also passes the serene Jungney Dra temple, perched dramatically on a cliffside, and we take a short detour to visit the sacred site accessed via a steep set of stairs and two large boulders that visitors squeeze through to rid themselves of their bad karma.
Arrive back at the lodge in time for evening aperitifs and, if so inclined, K5, Bhutan's Premium Brand Whiskey, so named for Bhutan's 5th (and current) King. Later, a relaxing soak in the lodge's traditional hot-stone baths, complemented by refreshing dips in the nearby glacial stream, a well-favored form of healing and relaxation in Bhutan.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Haa Zingkha Heritage Lodge
MAY 26: TRANS BHUTAN TREK TO PARO
The trek from Haa to Paro over the Kaleyla Pass is the westernmost end of the Trans Bhutan Trail, the recently (re)introduced cross-country through-hike along the old ancestral routes of Bhutan. Today's trek requires a good level of physical fitness and ability to negotiate steep trails and quickly winding descents over mixed terrain, including rocky paths and sections that may become muddy during wet weather. The trail covers approximately 17 kilometers (11 miles) and takes around eight hours to complete. The highest point is at the Kaleyla Pass, 3,790 meters (about 12,434 feet), with significant ascents and descents throughout the day. Hiking poles are reccomended today, and on some of the other hiking days. We take regular rest breaks during the steeper sections of the climb for a more enjoyable experience. The trail becomes a wonderland for mushroom enthusiasts in the months from July to September, when the lush vegetation and weather combine to make a variety of edible and inedible mushrooms sprout everywhere in the undergrowth.
This evening you may like to join Chencho Dema and family for dinner at their home.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Paro Olathang Lodge
MAY 27: WANGSEL SCHOOL, PARO VISITS
Today, begin your day with a visit to Wangsel to discuss the playground project and the adaptive play program. Whatever, time you have left can be allocated for local experiences in Paro that you haven't done before.
Next, explore the local markets in Paro town to discover traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Meet local weavers and stroll the charming and bustling main street with shops filled with Himalayan tchotchkes and treasures sitting side by side.
In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, believed to be one of 108 temples constructed to suppress a metaphorical demon sprawled across the Himalayas. This serene temple is renowned for its ancient orange tree that bears fruit year-round.
Conclude your day at Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It serves as a religious and administrative center and offers stunning views of the valley. The dzong features intricate woodwork and murals depicting ancient Buddhist teachings.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Paro Olathang Lodge
MAY 28: PARO TO TSHALUNA ON THE TBT / THIMPHU, CAPITAL
The Trans Bhutan Trail section from Paro to Tsaluna begins with a steep climb past the scattered apple orchards above Paro, before entering dense forests of pine and fir, and finally ascending to the small, ridge-top Jele Dzong.
The trail spans an estimated 14.2 km (8.8 miles) and typically takes all day to complete because of the steep climb up to the exposed mountain ridge with distant views, in good weather, of the greater Himalayan peaks. It begins in Paro at an elevation of 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) and ends in Tsaluna at about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). The highest point of the trail is at the Jela Pass, reaching 3,528 meters (11,575 feet).
The Jele dzong, a short distance above the pass, is well worth the visit. It was constructed in the 15th century by Lam Ngawang Choegyal (1464-1540), the brother of the kingdom’s legendary and beloved prankster saint Drukpa Kuenley. The building features a fortress-like structure typical of Bhutanese architecture, and houses a small chapel dedicated to Bhutan’s protective deities. It serves as an active monastic school affiliated with Paro Rinpung Dzong.
From there the trail descends steeply into the Tshaluna Valley through forests of rhododendrons and pine to emerge above scattered village homes, small farms, and a community school at the base, from where we transfer to the capital by car.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Thimphu Capital Hotel
MAY 29: CAPITAL COURTESIES, OPTIONAL HIKES & EXPERIENCES
This morning visit Nyendo at the Changgangkha School, and and later meet with Dasho Dechen at the Pema Insitute for Mental Health. In the early evening, join the meditative and colorful stream of capital city residents circumabulating the National Memorial Chorten.
The remainder of the day is yours to plan as you see fit.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Thimphu Capital Hotel
MAY 30: TBT TREK ON THE DIVINE MADMAN TRAIL
There are two options today, both on the 'Divine Madman' Trail:
Option 1. The steep day trek on the Trans Bhutan Trail to the serene mountain top Lungchutse Monastery where, on clear days, you can see Bhutan's highest peaks, including Gangkar Puensum, the world's highest unclimbed mountain at 7,570 meters (24,835 feet).
Or,
Option 2. Take the optional hike on the Divine Madman section of the Trans Bhutan Trail to Thinleygang Lhakhang, a temple that now serves as a school for young monks, before continuing the short distance down the hill to Mendegang Heritage Home, our home for the night, offering a genuine cultural heritage experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mendegang Heritage Homestay
MAY 31: CHORTEN NYINGBO MONASTERY / OPEN AIR ART STUDIO
We begin with a scenic drive to Chorten Nyingbo Monastery, located about 15 kilometers from Punakha town. Founded in the 18th century by Jigme Sengye, this historic monastery is nestled amid lush rice terraces. Meet the young resident monks, visit their classrooms, and learn about their monastic life. The monastery is home to sacred relics associated with Guru Rimpoche, patron saint of the Himalayas.
In the afternoon, stop by the picturesque hilltop called Potolo, the site of an open-air art studio run our old friend Asha Kama Wangdi, one of Bhutan's most celebrated contemporary artists. Known for blending traditional Bhutanese art with modern techniques, Kama Wangdi is also the founder of VAST Bhutan, an initiative nurturing young artists. At his studio, which uses found and discarded objects from the urban areas, displayed works often include works in progress by talented Bhutanese artists, featuring Buddhist iconography with environmental and cultural themes. Learn about Kama’s artistic journey and the evolving art scene in Bhutan, gaining a unique perspective on Bhutanese life through contemporary art.
We end the day at Ama Om's Homestay, where we enjoy an early dinner featuring authentic Bhutanese dishes made from fresh local ingredients. After dinner, unwind with a hot tub session, often infused with medicinal herbs, beside a rushing stream, providing a perfect and therapeutic way to relax after our day of exploration.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations:Ama Om's Homestay, The Zhingkham Resort, Dhumra Farmstay or comparable
JUNE 01: DRIVE TO TRONGSA YANGKHIL
The four-and-half-hour drive from Punakha to Trongsa takes us on a scenic journey through Bhutan's Black Mountain range. As you leave Punakha, the road follows the Mochhu and Dangchhu rivers, offering beautiful views of the landscape. It climbs through lush mountains covered with trees and vegetation. Lunch is at the Willing Waterfall Restaurant before ending your day at the Yangkhil Resort, the grande dame of Trongsa lodges.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Trongsa Yangkhil Lodge or comparable
JUNE 02: TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL FROM YOTONGLA PASS TO BUMTHANG
The hike from Yotongla Pass to Gyetsa on the Trans Bhutan Trail begins at Yotongla Pass, situated at an elevation of 3,425 meters (11,236 feet), and descends to Gyetsa village at 2,891 meters (9,484 feet). This section typically takes around 4 to 6 hours to complete. The trail offers a variety of terrains and ecosystems, making it particularly rewarding for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Starting at the high-altitude Yotongla Pass the trail, historically associated with Bhutan's royal family, it descends through open meadows offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail then cuts through stretches of open forest, providing shade and a chance to observe local flora and fauna. The final portion of the hike offers a pleasant riverside walk as you approach Gyetsa village. The route also passes through the famous weaving village of Chumey, where our support van will meet us in case we decide to purchase the colorful local yak-hair and wool weavings known as Yathra. We take the 30-minute drive from Chumey or Gyetsa to Mountain Resort, our family lodge opposite the historic Bhutan Foundation-supported Wangduechhoeling Palace and Museum.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Bumthang Mountain Resort
JUNE 03: TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL, JAKAR TO TANG/OGYENCHOLING
Today choose one of two trekking routes, the first a difficult and grueling trek from the Jakar Valley center, following the aquamarine Chamkharchhu River to the Ngang Lhakhang, or ‘Swan Temple.’ This ancient royal trail winds through the surrounding villages to a high pass before a dropping down along a spectacularly rolling mountainslope into Tang Ogyen Choling.
The other option, along a shorter route, takes us on the Trans Bhutan Trail proper, winding up a farm road, to rise through tall forests of pine and fir up to a modest pass that drops down to the Pemacholing Nunnery, from where we take our support van to The Ogyen Choling Manor and Museum. Tang Ogyen Choling is an atmospheric old central Bhutanese palace that dates back to ancient regional nobility. This evening, if we’re lucky, we may be able to share a lovely and informative conversation with our hosts Ashi Kunzang Roder, the very well traveled and well-read present-day descendent of an ancient noble family, and her Swiss Forester husband, who has advised and worked for the Bhutanese government’s natural resources services for decades. The retired couple now lives in the old renovated manor and are among the most consummate and storied hosts in all of Bhutan.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Tang Ogyen Choling Manor and Museum
JUNE 04: TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL FROM TANG TO JAKAR
After a hearty breakfast today, drive the two hours back to Bathpalathang Domestic Airport and catch the 12:25 PM flight back to Paro with time in the afternoon to relax at your cottage in the pines. This evening, you may have enough left in the tank to head up the valley for a soak at the little riverside hot-stone baths on the way to the Tiger's Nest.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Cottages at Olathang
JUNE 05: PARO THROUGH YESHEY'S EYES
Today you have the unique opportunity to spend the day and experience Paro through Yeshey's eyes. Born and raised in Paro, most of Yeshey's formative life experiences have been in Paro, and he has watched it grow with him from a sleepy little village market to the bustling town on the make it is today. Release any expectations you may have, and and let our kind and gentle trip leader share his hometown in the way he'd like. We may all be more than a little touched and surprised by what we learn from letting go.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Paro Olathang Lodge
JUNE 06: DEPART FOR BANGKOK
Today, following breakfast, Yeshey will bring you back to the airport in time to catch your return flight to Bangkok. Drukair flight KB 152 departs at 04:20 PM and arrives in Bangkok at 8:30 PM.
ACCOMMODATIONS
PEACE OF MIND
PRACTICAL DETAILS
DATES & PRICES
May 24 - June 06
$13,695/*- per person
*All ground costs included at Local Heritage Accommodations Level, featuring the lodges as shown on the itinerary; International Luxury Resorts at extra cost.
________
PLEASE ADD
SDF Government Taxes and Fees: $1,340 per person (inclusive of visa and monuments fees)
_______
ADDITIONAL
(Air)
Roundtrip flights BUSINESS from BANGKOK: $1,350/- per person
One-way flight from Bumthang to Paro: $250 per person
***
DATE
TRAVEL SEASONS
$13,695/*- per person
*All ground costs included at Local Heritage Accommodations Level, featuring the lodges as shown on the itinerary; International Luxury Resorts at extra cost.
________
PLEASE ADD
SDF Government Taxes and Fees: $1,340 per person (inclusive of visa and monuments fees)
_______
ADDITIONAL
(Air)
Roundtrip flights BUSINESS from BANGKOK: $1,350/- per person
One-way flight from Bumthang to Paro: $250 per person
***
DATE
TRAVEL SEASONS
2026 Dates & Prices
2026 Dates & Prices
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
TRIP PHOTOGALLERY
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ACCOMMODATIONS
High-end traditional lodges
PRIVATE
DURATION
14 days
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Active Hiking to Challenging Treks
Or call 1-855-4-BHUTAN (248826)
TRIP TYPE
TREK ● LODGE ● CULTURE
ASK A QUESTION
_________
Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan
“First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!”
~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024
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