A combined trip which takes us from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu city (capital of Nepal) to the tranquil setting of Bhumtang valley. Our exploration includes Bhutan’s unique monasteries, a three day trek in the Bhumtang valley and an overland journey through eye-catching mountains. Its tradition and ritual are sill very much a way of life.
Monasteries and serene valleys Commencing your trip with very interesting visit to World Heritage sites. Durbar Square with its palaces and Newari architectures are the ancient part of this fascinating city. Explore old bazaars and to the holy Buddhist temple Swayambhunath-the famous “monkey temple”. Flying from Kathmandu to Paro will take you to another time, the land of Peaceful Dragon. Visiting the old fortress of Drukyel and the sacred remains of Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Lair”, which hangs from an almost sheer cliff face some 1000m above the Paro valley.
Bhumtang Trek-3 days Driving via the Dorchu La pass (3050m), we stop to visit Wangdi and Punakha Dzongs (monasteries) before reaching Jakar, the starting point of our trek. We’ll spend 3 days following winding trails through the wide open valleys perhaps pausing at mountain villages to admire yatha – colourful hand woven fabrics made in the local farms. The valleys are littered with temples and monasteries and we stop to visit Kugye Lhakhang Temple complex, one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan.
Gantey and Thimpu We return to Jakar at the end of our trek and follow the road to Paro. En route we stop at peaceful Gantey Gompa and the city of Thimpu, where we have time to wander around the colourful market, perhaps witness some traditional archery. Flying back to Nepal, we spend time in the medieval town of Bhaktapur and capture the breathtaking panoramic views of northern Himalayas including Mount Everest from Nagarkot. Our tour ends in Kathmandu.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu. Trip briefing. Welcome dinner with culture dance.
Day 2
Morning city tours for half day. After lunch afternoon free.
Day 3
Fly Paro (Bhutan) afternoon city tour.
Day 4
In Paro; walk to Taktsang monastery.
Day 5
Drive to Punakha via Dorchu La pass; visit Punakha Dzong.
Day 6
Via Wangdi Phodrang Dzong to Jakar in Bhumtang valley.
Day 7
Three day Bhumtang Trek
Day 8
Trekking Bhumtang region
Day 9
Trekking Bhumtang region
Day 10
Drive to Gantey Gompa;optional walks.
Day 11
Drive To Thimpu; afternoon sightseeing.
Day 12
Morning free; drive to Paro.
Day 13
Fly Paro to Kathmandu; drive via Bhaktapur to Nagarkot.
Day 14
Sunrise walk; Drive Kathmandu; optional visit Patan.
Day 15
International Departure
Destination | Bhutan |
Duration | 15 Days |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Group size | Min – 4 |
Accommodation | Hotels 11 nights/camp 2 nights |
Transportation | Flight, Tourist van |
Maximum Altitude | 2600 m |
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