Hiking and trekking become more fun when the place you choose to spoil your adventurer soul is a place like Bhutan. Surrounded by the snow-capped lofty mountains of the Himalayan range, Bhutan offers regular hikers some of the most challenging heights to ascend.
The return on the relentless efforts remains the captivating panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas or the breathtaking beauty of the underlying valleys covered with a velvet green carpet of paddy fields.
Nothing rejuvenates a wanderer at heart more than natural splendors and Bhutan is undoubtedly a place that never ceases to amaze its visitors with unparalleled vistas. If you are feeling confused about the next hiking destination, you can choose Bhutan’s popular trails at any time.
Many of these trails will take you through the dense blue pine forests while some will lay across the quaint local villages and farms dotted with humble wooden houses and medieval-era ruins. When you plan a hiking trip to Bhutan, history, legends, natural beauty, and many other ecstatic experiences accompany you through your journey.
We put in our best to make every hiking experience unforgettable for you. Our eight days seven nights heritage hiking itinerary is simply perfect for all adventurers looking for serenity and peace of mind.
Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Thimphu.
On your first day in Bhutan, after reaching Paro airport, our driver and guide will assist you to reach Thimphu. The driver will take the national highway to reach Thimphu from Paro so that you could stop by Thamchu Lhakhang on your way.
Thimphu is Bhutan’s capital and the spectacular view of the entire city from the top of the Buddha Statue of Thamchu Lhakhang will undoubtedly take your breath away.
After reaching Thimphu, you will experience an exclusive lunch at our hotel. The authentic Bhutanese dishes prepared by our trained chefs will entertain your taste buds perfectly.
Takin is Bhutan’s national animal and you can easily catch a glimpse of this majestic animal just by visiting Mothitang after lunch. If your energy levels permit, you can also go for a trek to reach Dechenphodrang and Wanguetse monasteries.
The entire trail lies through dense forest and the entire trek would take around one and a half hours at most. After your day’s adventure return to the property to spend your night.
Day 2: Thimphu Valley Tour: Thimphu – Museums, Markets & Monuments
On the next day morning, wake up to a bright and warm sun and start your first hike to the Cheri Monastery, located at the northern end of Thimphu. After returning, enjoy the cultural places and the monuments of importance in the city.
This trip would include places like the Nunnery, Traditional Art School, Indigenous Hospital, Weekend Markets, Takin Sanctuary, etc. You can also choose from these alternatives or add a few more destinations to customize your day trip. Our guide will assist you to tailor your itinerary.
Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha – Dachula Pass ( Lunchutse Hike (3 Hrs) and Drive to Punakha
On the third day morning, you will head out for Punakha after breakfast. On the way, you will stop at Dochula pass to admire the panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayas. Ideal for some alone time and photography, this place always leaves you with something to cherish for your entire life. You can also opt for a hike to Lunchutse before reaching Punakha valley.
Day 4: In Punakha – Wangdue Excursion (Punakha Dzong and Chorten walk).
The next day, wake up early and get ready to visit the medieval Punakha Dzong, situated at the meeting point of the two rivers, Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu. After visiting the enchanting Dzong, drive to Khamsum Yuley, a temple located on Nyinzergang hill.
You will get an extraordinary view of the paddy field of the underlying Wangdue valley. Pay a visit to Wangdue to admire its intricately designed fortress. Your day’s itinerary will also include a visit to Richengang village, known for its connected houses. Before returning to the hotel, pay a visit to the fertility temple, Chimi Lakhang.
Day 5: Punakha -Thimphu- Paro
The next day, you will return to Paro. On your way back, you can either explore the flora and fauna of Dochu La pass or visit Lungchuzekha Goenpa and Lungchutse Monastery. This will take around three to four hours. You can also add Hontsho and Trashigang Goenpa to your itinerary if you have eight hours to spare. After reaching Thimphu, spend the night there.
Day 6: Paro Valley Tour ( Haa Valley Chele Pass & Local Valley Tour )
For an unorthodox itinerary with adventure hikes and walks, our guide can take you to Chele pass for the Kila Gompa Nunnery hike. You can also visit Dzongdrakha Gompa in Bondey village. Spend the rest of the day visiting the local houses, markets, Rinphung Dzong, Dungtse and Kichu temples National Museum, etc.
Day 7: Paro Valley (Taksang) – Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery- 3 Hrs Hike
On the seventh day morning, you may choose to visit the Drugyal Dzo ruins. However, the main attraction of the day will remain the hike to Tiger’s Nest, locally known as Taktsang Gompa.
Scaling and descending the steep slopes of the cliffs atop which sits the Gompa will take the entire day. If you do not feel like visiting this place for any reason, our guide will suggest alternative places to choose from.
Day 8: Departure
On the eighth day morning, our driver and guide will help you reach Paro international airport to catch your flight home.
