Bhutan and Royal Enfields

1. Day 1 Paro - Thimphu ▾

   • 55 km Driving distance
   • 1 hr 30 min Driving time
   • 2,300 m Altitude of Thimphu

   The panoramic Himalayan views shall be mesmerizing as you fly to Bhutan. The Landing is another experience. On completion of immigration formalities, your guide from Ideal Travel Creations shall welcome you with a “Tashi Khadar” on your exit from the Airport gate.

   Drive to Thimphu. Discover the barren mountains, Tamchog Lhakhang, the Paro River (Pa Chhu) joining the Thimphu River (Wang Chhu) at Chhuzomsa and the three stupas as you drive the well-maintained road between Paro and Thimphu. Lunch at Thimphu.

   You may choose to relax at hotel or walk around the Thimphu town. In the evening, explore the craft bazar and the Kaja Throm, Thimphu (Formerly Centenary farmers market). A private traditional cultural show before dinner. Overnight in Hotel in Thimphu.

2. Day 2 Explore Thimphu, The Capital City ▾

   • 2,300 m Altitude of Thimphu

   In the morning, visit the National Memorial Chhorten. Located in Doeboom Lam, it was built in 1974 in honor of the Third King of Bhutan. Drive to Kuenselphodrang, where used to be the palace of the Sherab Wangchuk the thirteenth Druk Desi. The construction of A Gigantic Statue of The Great Buddha Dordenmawas started in the year 2006 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Fourth King of Bhutan.

   The construction completed in 2015. The Kuenselphodrang Nature park opened in 2011 adds to natural value and beauty of this place. On the way back visit the Hindu Temple formally known as Devi Panchayan Mandir which was consecrated on 1st October 2019.

   His Majesty, The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck offered worship and granted “Tika” to the Hindu Communities on the Dussehra of 2019 in this temple. Visit the Changangkha Lhakhang, a temple complex on a ridge overlooking Thimphu valley.

   The temple was founded in the 13th century by one of the sons of Phajo Drugom Zhipo. It is customary that all the children born in Thimphu is taken to the temple for blessing. Finally visit Simply Bhutan. This is the first living museum in the country.

   It depicts ancient Bhutan and the Bhutanese ways of life in the ancient times. It has an altar, a photo studio, a Zhabdrung museum, a traditional Bhutanese kitchen, demonstration stalls of textiles and handmade products and cafe offering butter tea Suja, snacks and a souvenir shop.

   Afterlunch, visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the National animal of Bhutan. Then visit the Institute of Traditional Medical Services which was first established as an “Indigenous Dispensary” in 1968 at Dechencholing, Thimphu as directed by the Third King of Bhutan.

   Visit the National Institute of Zorig Chusum. Students are taught the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan in the institute. In the evening visit the Tashichhodzong, which has been the seat of the Government since 1952. It houses the Office of the King of Bhutan, the throne room and the offices of certain secretariat and Ministries.

   The dzong also constitutes a monastic body. An interactive session with your Bhutanese hosts in the evening. Dinner with your Bhutanese Host. Overnight in hotel in Thimphu.

3. Day 3 Thimphu – Gangtey/ Phobjikha ▾

   • 140 km Driving distance
   • 5 hr Driving time
   • 3,000 m Altitude of Phobjikha/ Gangtey

   Visit the Simtokha Dzong on the way. This is one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan. Drive to the Dochula Pass (3150 m), the highest point between Thimphu and Punakha valleys. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the higher Himalayas, explore the 108 Druk Wangyel Chhortens and then visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang.

   Descend to the subtropical lush and beautiful valley of Punakha. The terraced rice fields, the meandering river and the beautiful villages shall welcome you as you reach Punakha. Explore the Lobesa Village for a while. Interact with the local vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables and other local produce.

   Lunch at the Lobesa. Visit the Wangduephodrang Dzong overlooking the convergence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers. The dzong was initially built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638. Drive along the slopes of bare hills following the river (Drang Chhu) until you reach Chuzomsa, (the confluence of the Dang Chhu and the Pe Chhu).

   After crossing the bridge, the road goes uphill through pine forests often encountering small villages, where women spinning yarns on their porches, older men idling their time and children frolicking around could be the most common sights.

   Explore the Lawala Pass. A few Photographs are must here. Drive down along the pine forest till you reach Gangtey. A further short drive through the villages takes you to your hotel. Spend your evening enjoying the breathtaking views the property has to offer in one of the most beautiful Glacial valleys in the Himalayas.

   Dinner and overnight in Hotel.

4. Day 4 Gangtey/ Phobjikha Valley ▾

   • 3,000 m Altitude of Phobjikha/ Gangtey

   Start your day with a breakfast with views. Visit the Gangtey Goemba overlooking the large green expanse of the Phobjikha Valley. Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613, and Tenzin Legpai Dhendup, the second re-incarnation, built the temple.

   Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail. The trail starts at the 17th century Gangtey Monastery. The two-hour gentle trek lets you get immersed in the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Visit the Khewang Lhakhang and interact with the young monks. Explore the nearby villages for a while.

   Picnic Lunch in the Phobjikha Valley. After lunch drive towards the villages of Kilkhorthang and Remeachin. Visit the Nelung Dreachagling Nunnery and the villages around. Witness farmers working in the field and enjoy taking photographs in this beautiful Glacial valley.

   On the way back visit the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, a place for recreation with crane watching equipment (binoculars, spotting scopes) and reference books. In the evening a enjoy a traditional hotstone bath at the hotel. Soak in the stone heated water rich in minerals and floating sprigs of khempa as the sun sets.

   (Advance reservations and additional cost may be applicable) Dinner and overnight in hotel.

5. Day 5 Gangtey – Bumthang ▾

   • 160 km Driving distance
   • 5 hr Driving time
   • 2,800 m Altitude of Bumthang

   Today your journey goes deeper into the Kingdom of Bhutan amidst breathtaking views, beautiful landscapes and interesting experiences. Visit the Chendebji Chorten, built in the style of the great Boudhanath Chorten of Nepal. Further near Trongsa, stop at a place across on the other side of the Trongsa Dzong, where you get a perfect view of the Dzong.

   Photograph the Dzong. Continue your journey with a stoppage at Yotongla, the highest peak between Bumthang and Trongsa and then the Chhumey village, known for Yathra Textile. It is the most famous textile product of Bumthang. The Chhumey Valley is known for the beautiful Yathra woven by the locals.

   Yathra is a hand-woven fabric made from the wool of sheep or Yak. The wool is first spun into threads and then dyed before they are woven into Yathra with beautiful flower patterns and colors. The Yathra cloth is made into scarves, jackets, tablecloths, bags, etc.

   Most of the women in this valley, especially in Zungye village earn their lively hood by weaving Yathra which is supplied to various towns in Bhutan. Your today’s journey ends on arrival at hotel in Bumthang.

6. Day 6 Bumthang Valley ▾

   • 2,800 m Altitude of Bumthang

   Your day starts with a visit to the Jakar Dzong, literally meaning the Castle of White Bird. The current structure was built in 1667. Visit the Wangdichholing Palace which was the home to the First and Second Kings of Bhutan. Continue your day’s sightseeing with visits to Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang.

   Picnic Lunch in a quaint setting in the Chhoekhor valley. After lunch, visit the Tamshing Lhakhang and the Könchogsum Lhakhang. As you reach Bathpalathang, visit the cheese and apple juice/wine making factory. Taste the Locally made red panda beer here.

   Before going back to the hotel, explore the Chamkhar Town.

7. Day 7 Nga lhakhang – Ugyenchholing (Trek StartS) ▾

   • 15 km Driving distance
   • 6 hr Driving time
   • 2,850 m Altitude of Campsite

   After breakfast, drive to Ngang Lhakhang and meet your trekking crew here. After an introduction with the team, begin your trek with a gradual ascent to Phephe La pass (3,353 m). Follow the trail through a picturesque forested region, making sure to stop along the way to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

   While in Ugyenchholing visit the Ugyenchholing Palace and Museum, which houses one of Bhutan’s most interesting museums. This museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of the lives of the landed gentry in traditional Bhutanese society. Dinner and overnight in Camp or village homestay.

8. Day 8 Ugyencholing – Phokphey ▾

   • 17 km Trekking distance
   • 6 hr On the trail
   • 920 m Ascent
   • 3,680 m Altitude of Campsite

   Today’s walk takes you through bamboo and hemlock forests, eventually leading to an alpine forest. The camp is situated in a meadow at the head of the valley.

9. Day 9 Phokphey – Pemi ▾

   • 20 km Driving distance
   • 7 hr Driving time
   • 2,950 m Altitude of Campsite

   AESCENT | 1160 M DESCENT Rodung La (4,160m) is approximately a three-hour climb from the camp. From the pass, continue downhill through a gorge, offering views of scenic mountain valleys adorned with lush pine forests. The region is steeped in folklore about spirits and yetis.

   Near the camp, you’ll find a ruined stone building that once served as a grain storehouse during the reigns of the first and second kings.

10. Day 10 Pemi – Khaine Lhakhang ▾

    • 21 km Driving distance
    • 8 hr Driving time

    AESCENT | 1340 M DESCENT The trail winds through the villages of Ungaar, Bulay, Kulaypang, and Gomda before leading you to Drula village and Khaine Lhakhang. Built in the mid-7th century by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet, this temple is one of the oldest in the country and was constructed to subdue demons.

    ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 2010

11. Day 11 Khaine Lhakhang – Tangmachu ▾

    • 18 km Driving distance
    • 7 hr Driving time

    AESCENT | 810 M DESCENT From your camp, the trail descends to a stream and then ascends to a basic health unit and a community school in Gorsam. Further along, you pass a Tibetan-style Umling Mani, built by a lama from Tibet, and a chorten on Zerim La (1,940m).

    Before reaching the next pass, Tage La (1,760m), you’ll come across Menjabi, a beautiful Bhutanese village with large white houses. The campsite for the night is located southeast of Tage La, near Tangmachu High School. Alternatively, you can arrange transport and drive to Lhuentse, the capital of Lhuentse district, where you’ll find Lhuentse Dzong, one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan.

    ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 1720

12. Day 12 Tangmachu – Menji ▾

    • 16 km Trekking distance
    • 5 hr On the trail
    • 690 m Ascent
    • 620 m Descent

    After arriving at Kuri Zampa, the trek gradually ascends through paddy fields and villages, eventually bringing you to Chusa. ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 1830

13. Day 13 Menji – Pemi ▾

    • 20 km Trekking distance
    • 6 hr On the trail
    • 620 m Ascent

    Today’s trek continues uphill through dense forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The camp is situated in a forested area at an altitude of 2,400 meters. ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 2450

14. Day 14 Pemi – Taupang ▾

    • 21 km Trekking distance
    • 8 hr On the trail
    • 1,450 m Ascent
    • 1,450 m Descent

    After ascending to Dongla, you’ll descend through dense evergreen forests until you reach the campsite for the night. ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 2450

15. Day 15 Taupang – Trashi yangtse (Trek Ends) ▾

    • 24 km Trekking distance
    • 9 hr On the trail
    • 720 m Descent
    • 1,800 m Altitude of Trashiyangtse

    After ascending to Dongla, you’ll descend through dense evergreen forests until you reach the campsite for the night.

16. Day 16 Trashiyangtse – Trashigang ▾

    • 50 km Driving distance
    • 1 hr 45 min Driving time
    • 1,070 m Altitude of Trashigang

    After breakfast, visit Chorten Kora. One of the most important stupas in Trashiyangtse built in the year 1740, and then explore the villages, learn about wooden containers and bowls and making it. Then drive to Bomdeling and explore the valley.

    Bomdeling is a picturesque valley renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance. This serene area is a vital wintering ground for the endangered black-necked cranes, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests and traditional villages, Bomdeling offers a peaceful retreat into nature, where visitors can experience Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and the harmonious coexistence of people and wildlife.

    The valley is also a part of the Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, which protects the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Drive to Trashigang. In the evening, explore the Trashigang Town. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

17. Day 17 Explore Trashigang ▾

    After breakfast, visit the Trashigang Dzong, which lies on the headland of the dzongkhag that gives us the confluence of the Drangme Chhu and the Gamri Chhu. It was built by Minjur Tempa, Bhutan’s third Desi in the year 1667. It was once destroyed by fire and was rebuilt in only three years.

    In the Gorikha (Veranda) are the paintings of the kings and guardians of the four directions. Drive to Khaling and visit the National Institute for the Visually Impaired (NIVI). This institute was started in the year 1973 with its first three students.

    The first principal of the institute was Mr. Einar Kippenes, a Norwegian. The establishment of the institute was the personal initiative of His Royal Highness Prince Namgyel Wangchuck, the then honorable minister of Trade Industry and Forests.

    Today the institute produces a number of intelligent, talented, hardworking and dedicated citizens every year, who serve the nation in different capacities and ways. Visit the Khaling textile weaving Centre which is operated by the National Women’s Association of Bhutan.

    Drive back to Trashigang. Dinner and overnight in hotel in Trashigang.

18. Day 18 Trashigang - Mongar ▾

    • 90 km Driving distance
    • 3 hr Driving time
    • 1,600 m Altitude of Mongar

    APPROX. After breakfast, drive to Mongar. While in Mongar, visit the Mongar Dzong. This dzong was rebuilt in 1953 and it is unique as it has two entrances. There are about 60 young monks residing in this dzong. You will see the images of the Buddha of long life, as well as Guru Rinpoche and the Zhabdrung.

    Explore the Mongar Town. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

19. Day 19 Mongar – Ura - Bumthang ▾

    • 190 km Driving distance
    • 8 hr Driving time
    • 2,650 m Altitude of Bumthang

    APPROX After breakfast, drive to Bumthang. Stop at places to view scenery and for photography. Drive from Mongar to Bumthang shall take you across the highest point in Bhutan’s motorable road. The point is known as the Thrumsingla Pass at an altitude of 4000 mts.

    On the way explore the Ura Valley for a while. At 3,100 meters, Ura village consists of about 50 traditional houses, surrounded by lush forests, creating a serene atmosphere. Approximately 90 minutes from Bumthang Town, Ura was named after Padmasambhava, the 8th-century Guru who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, and is celebrated through the annual Yakchoe festival.

    Local legends recount Padmasambhava’s miraculous visit to cure a leprosy outbreak, during which he left behind a statue of Vajrapani. This story is central to the Yakchoe celebrations, reflecting the valley’s rich cultural heritage. Ura Valley captures the essence of ancient beliefs and traditions, offering visitors a glimpse into Bhutanese village life.

    The evening ends exploring the Chamkhar Town. Dinner and overnight in hotel

20. Day 20 Bumthang – Punakha ▾

    • 215 km Driving distance
    • 6 hr Driving time

    After breakfast drive to Punakha. Retrace the same road via Yotongla Pass to Trongsa. Lunch at Trongsa. While in Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong, the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong was built by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the official who was sent by Zhabdrung to unify Eastern Bhutan and enlarged at the end of the 17th century by Desi Tenzin Rabgay.

    Trongsa Dzong is the ancestral home of the present Royal Family. The first two hereditary kings ruled Bhutan from this Dzong. Then visit the Trongsa Ta Dzong (watch tower) which once. safeguarded the Trongsa Dzong from rebellion. Located on a promontory, it has four observation points named after mythical creatures: Tiger, Lion, Garuda, and Dragon.

    Visitors can climb the tower, which now features a shrine to the legendary King Gesar of Ling. Today, the Ta Dzong functions as the National Museum, presenting Bhutan’s rich heritage with modern amenities. Retrace the same road back to Punakha, via Pelela Pass.

    Ensure that you do not miss anything interesting on the way make the drive an interesting and worthy of re experience. Dinner and overnight in Hotel.

21. Day 21 Explore Punakha ▾

    • 1,310 m Altitude of Punakha

    Start your day with a Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten. An hour of walk after crossing the suspension bridge and through the rice fields takes you to magnificent views and the Chhorten, beautifully crafted in traditional Bhutanese style.

    With the intricate design and sculptures, the temple was built by Bhutanese craftsmen which took 9 years. The craftsmanship of Bhutanese artists is amazing. The 360-degree views of the Punakha valley’s rice fields and the shimmering river shall ensure that the sweating was worth.

    After lunch, visit Chimi Lhakhang. Also known as the temple of fertility, the temple was built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley. the revered ‘Divine Madman’ and Buddhist ‘crazy wisdom.’ A lot of graphic phallus paintings and crafts might surprise you in the nearby areas.

    Explore the Khuruthang town for a while and then finally visit the Punakha dzong at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu River. Addition to its appealing looks this Majestic Dzong stands six stories high. Walk over the one of the country’s longest suspension bridges and enjoy the breathing views, soothing breeze and a beautiful experience.

    Dinner and overnight in Hotel.

22. Day 22 Punakha – Paro ▾

    • 140 km Driving distance
    • 4 hr Driving time
    • 2,280 m Altitude of Paro

    After a nice breakfast, drive to Paro. On the way explore the Royal Botanical Park for a while. Picnic Lunch on the banks of Paro River near Shaba Village. After a short stoppage at Airport Viewpoint, After lunch walk over the Nyamai Zampa, a traditional cantilevered bridge.

    Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Visit the Paro National Museum, which displays a collection of fascinating Bhutanese relics. Finally explore the Paro Town. Visit Coffee shops, handicraft shops and interact with the locals. Drive back to the hotel.

    Dinner and Overnight in Hotel.

23. Day 23 Paro Valley ▾

    • 2,280 m Altitude of Paro

    Your day starts with an early morning hike to Taktshang Monastery, one of the most wonderful and significant monasteries in Bhutan. Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, the hike shall be accompanied with stories of Guru Rinpoche, who arrived on the spot where the monastery is located on the back of a flying tigress somewhere in 8th century.

    Reaching the top shall enlighten you on why the Monastery is an iconic pilgrimage for visitors to the Kingdom of Bhutan. Visit Kyichhu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple nearby with two magical orange trees that bear fruit throughout the year. Drive to a local farmhouse for lunch with a Bhutanese family.

    Try the traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, National Dress and Archery here. You shall also have an opportunity to witness the daily life in a village in Bhutan. Farewell dinner at the hotel.

24. Day 24 Departure ▾

    Your 24 days of Bhutan travel with The Wild East Rodungla Trek comes to an end with a drive to paro Airport and farewell.

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