Bumpthang Cultural Trek

12 Day(s)

Overview The Bumpthang Cultural Trek offers an enchanting journey through the pristine landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of the Bumpthang region. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Spanning over several days, the trek winds through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and quaint villages. Trekkers get treatment with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glistening rivers, and blooming meadows. The trail offers a variety of terrains, from gentle slopes to moderate ascents. It makes them accessible to both novice and experienced trekkers. Beyond the scenic beauty, the true essence of…

Overview

The Bumpthang Cultural Trek offers an enchanting journey through the pristine landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of the Bumpthang region. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Spanning over several days, the trek winds through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and quaint villages. Trekkers get treatment with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glistening rivers, and blooming meadows. The trail offers a variety of terrains, from gentle slopes to moderate ascents. It makes them accessible to both novice and experienced trekkers.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the true essence of the trek lies in the cultural experiences it offers. The Bumpthang region is renowned for its unique blend of Bhutanese traditions and ancient Buddhist heritage. Trekkers have the opportunity to visit monasteries adorned with intricate frescoes, interact with friendly locals, and partake in traditional ceremonies. The warm hospitality of the villagers provides insights into their daily lives and time-honored practices.

The trek also includes visits to historical sites, such as the iconic Bumpthang Dzong, a majestic fortress that stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Along the way, trekkers can savor traditional Bhutanese cuisine, indulge in hearty meals made from locally sourced ingredients, and even try their hand at cooking under the guidance of skilled chefs.

Camping under the star-studded Himalayan skies adds an element of adventure to the journey. Nights are spent in cozy tents, sharing stories around campfires and forging lasting connections with fellow trekkers. As the trek progresses, the changing scenery and encounters with locals create a profound sense of camaraderie and understanding.

Conclusion and Summary

The Bumpthang Cultural Trek is not merely a physical journey; it’s a transformative experience that allows participants to connect with nature, history, and the vibrant culture of Bhutan. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of modern life and reconnect with the essence of existence. With its harmonious fusion of nature, culture, and adventure, this trek promises memories that will linger long after the journey concludes.

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Trip Highlights

Explore Ancient Monasteries: Bhutan is home to many ancient monasteries and temples that offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Some of the most famous monasteries include Paro Taktsang (also known as the Tiger’s Nest) and Punakha Dzong.
Trek through Scenic Countryside: Bhutan is known for its stunning landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to rolling hills and verdant valleys. A cultural trek in the region will likely take you through some of the most beautiful countryside in the country.
Meet Local Villagers: Trekking in Bhutan is a great opportunity to meet locals and learn about their way of life. You’ll likely encounter many small villages along the way where you can interact with the people and learn about their culture.
Experience Bhutanese Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is unique and delicious, with dishes like ema datshi (a spicy cheese and chili dish) and momos (dumplings) being popular staples. A cultural trek may include opportunities to sample traditional Bhutanese dishes and learn about the country’s culinary traditions.
Learn about Bhutanese Festivals: Bhutan is known for its vibrant festivals, which often feature colorful dances and other cultural performances. A cultural trek may include visits to some of these festivals, allowing you to experience firsthand the lively atmosphere and cultural traditions of the region.

Itinerary

🕑 30 mins

Max Altitude: 2,200 m

Upon arrival at the Paro International Airport, a representative from Himalayan Trekkers will greet you and escort you to the designated hotel.

Once at the hotel, check in and relax. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

🕑 3-4 hrs hike & 2 hrs drive

Max Altitude: 3,120 m

Today, after breakfast, we will hike to the popular Taktsang Monastery also known as Tigers’ Nest Monastery hanging on a high cliff at 3,120 meters. Legends state that during the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava flew on the back of the tigress and meditated at the spot where the monastery now stands.

After lunch, scenic drive to Thimpu, capital of Bhutan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

🕑 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,350 m

After breakfast, you will have guided sightseeing in the capital city, Thimpu. You will explore the King’s Memorial Chorten, Nunnery Temple, Changgangkha Monastery, Majestic Thimphu Dzong, etc. Besides that, we also go to the Central zoo to see the animals over there and among them the Takin, a goat-antelope is a major attraction as it is the national animal of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, we will visit the weekend market that is famous for all kinds of local products ranging from handicrafts to vegetables. You can also visit the radio tower on a hilltop, which offers a panoramic view of Thimpu city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 3-4 hrs

Max Altitude: 1,200 m

Our day starts with a scenic drive to Punakha via Dochu La Pass (3,100m) where we will stop for a brief moment to witness the tranquil atmosphere.

En route, we will make a brief visit to the fertility temple known as Chimi Lhakhang. You can receive blessings of fertility with a phallus (Symbolic representation of male sexual organ) from the Lama.

Upon arrival at Punakha, we will have lunch and visit the Punakha Dzong in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 7-8 hrs

Max Altitude: 3,300 m

With a good breakfast, we will enjoy a scenic and long drive today. En route we will cross the highest point of this trip, the Pele La pass at 3300m. We will stop at Rongsa after 3 and a half hours for our daily meal. We will also visit the nearby Dzong with the same name.

As we continue our drive we will stop once to see a factory of traditional Bhutanese weaving called Yathras most of them with unique patterns and designs related to Bumthang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

🕑 3-4 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,895 m

After breakfast, we start our first day of the trek from Thangbi along the Chamkhar Chu River. Walking ahead on the trail for more than an hour we reach Dangling Lhakhang.

Further walking for half an hour ahead we reach our lunch place on the hill. After lunch here we head towards the Ngang Yul literally meaning the Swan’s land. This area used to be full of swans in the past as per the local myths. Overnight at Ngang Lhakhang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 6-7 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,895 m

We have a long day ahead of us. The major highlight of the day is the crossing of the Pepe La, the highest point of your trip. The trekking trail passes through the lush green forest and some Yak farms.

By late afternoon we arrive at Ugyen Choling where we will stay an overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 3-4 hrs trek & 1 hr drive

Max Altitude: 2,745 m

After breakfast, we visit the Ugyen Choling Palace which houses the belongings to the medieval ruling dynasties of Bhutan. We walk down to Kizam and get into our vehicle to go to Bumthang.

On the way, we will visit the Lake of Mebertsho also referred to as the burning lake. This is a holy lake that is frequented by Bhutanese during major festivals and ceremonies.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 5-6 Hrs

Max Altitude: 2,800 m

Today, you will be guided for a full-day sightseeing tour in Bumthang.

Some of the attractions we visit today include the Jakar Dzong is the office of the government in Jakar, Jambay Lhakhang, a monastery dating back to the 8th century AD, Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery, Tamshing Monastery and other Dzong around the city.

The evening is interesting around the streets of Bumthang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 5-6 hrs

Max Altitude: 1,240 m

Leaving behind Bumthang, we will have a scenic drive to Wangdue soon after breakfast. Driving through lush green forests, nice scenery and small but interesting Bhutanese settlements, we reach our destinaiton, Wangdue.

Wangdue is a typical Bhutanese village renowned for its stone carving situated almost 200km from Bumthang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Trek Lodge

🕑 4 hrs

Max Altitude: 2,200 m

We will cross the Dochula Pass and drive almost 125 km from Wangdue to reach Paro.

A scenic drive across hills, small passes, beautiful settlements by observing culture & smile of Bhutanese people, will add more flavor on your drive.

After reaching Paro, free on your own.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel

🕑 30 mins drive to airport

Max Altitude: 2,200 m

According to your flight schedule back to your home town or onward destination, you will be transferred to the airport.

We bid farewell, and wish for a safe and sound journey.

Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

Airport pick-up and drop off
All Transfers as per the itinerary
Accommodation as per the itinerary with all meals
Bhutan Entry Fees
All Permit and Entrance Fees
Sightseeings
Guide and Driver
Welcome or Farewell Dinner as per your choice
All Taxes and surcharges

What's Excluded

International Airfares to Paro and Airport tax
Personal expenses such as laundry, liquor, room service, phone bills, bar bills, etc.
Tips to Guide and Driver
Travel Insurance
Any cost occurs from any unfavorable conditions such as landslide, bad weather, flight cancellation, etc.
Anything not mentioned in the INCLUSION Section

Trip Information

The Bumthang Cultural Trek is a popular tour in Bhutan that offers a unique experience to explore the cultural and natural beauty of the Bumthang Valley. Here is some basic information about the trip:

Location: The Bumthang Valley is located in central Bhutan and is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

Duration: The duration of the Bumthang Cultural Trek can vary depending on the tour operator and the itinerary, but typically it lasts around 11 days.

Highlights: The trip includes visits to some of the most important cultural sites in Bhutan such as the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, ancient temples, and traditional villages. You’ll also have the opportunity to trek through picturesque valleys, forests, and mountains, and interact with locals to learn about their unique culture and way of life.

Accommodation: You’ll be staying in comfortable hotels or guesthouses during the tour.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Visa requirement: All visitors to Bhutan require a visa, and it must be obtained through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

Overall, the Bumthang Cultural Trek is an unforgettable journey that offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure.

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