Bumthang Owl Trek

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 Menchugang - Dhur – Schonath (Start of Trek) ▾

   • 7 km Trekking distance
   • 4 hr On the trail
   • 7 km Driving distance
   • 3,450 m Altitude of Campsite

   The Bumthang Owl Trek begins at Manchugang and leads to Dhur Village (2900m). The village is home to the nomadic Kheps and Brokpas, who speak two distinct dialects: Bumthang Kha and Brokke, the latter spoken by the nomads. Near the river, you’ll find a traditional water-driven flour mill that once served as a vital source of livelihood for the people of Dhur.

   The trek continues with an uphill climb through blue pine forests, eventually reaching the campsite at Schonath (3450m). This area is covered in hemlock and juniper trees, and the otherwise silent nights are often punctuated by the hooting of owls, giving the trek its name, “The Owl Trek.”

8. Day 8 Schonath – Kitiphu ▾

   • 6 km Trekking distance
   • 3 hr On the trail
   • 6 km Driving distance
   • 3,870 m Altitude of Campsite

   On the second day of the Bhutan Owl Trek, you will journey mainly through lush forests of hemlock, fir, spruce, and a variety of rhododendrons, which bloom beautifully during April and May. The trail also winds through bamboo forests, which serve as the primary undergrowth in this region.

   After a few hours of walking, you will reach Drangela Pass (3600m). Climbing up the Kitiphu ridge will bring you to the campsite for the night at an altitude of approximately 3870m. From this vantage point, you can enjoy fresh views of snow-capped mountains and the valleys below.

   This is also where you can see Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7541m), the highest unclimbed peak in the world.

9. Day 9 Kitiphu – Tharpaling –Bumthang (Trek Ends) ▾

   • 7 km Trekking distance
   • 4 hr On the trail
   • 7 km Driving distance
   • 2,800 m Altitude of Bumthang

   On the third day, you will descend towards the monasteries of Zambhalha, Chuedak, and Tharpaling. Chuedak Monastery features 100 Avoloketeshvaras in the form of Chukchizhey (eleven heads), where you may pray for yourself and all living beings.

   In the afternoon, the trek will lead you along the ridge of Kikila, following the traditional trek route between Trongsa and Bumthang, also known as the Royal Heritage Trail. This route takes you through scenic hills and forests. Finally, you will have the best view of Jakar Dzong, and your trek will conclude in Bumthang.

10. Day 10 Bumthang – Ura – Trongsa ▾

    • 135 km Driving distance
    • 5 hr Driving time
    • 2,200 m Altitude of Trongsa

    After breakfast drive to Ura via Old Bumthang – Mongar Highway. Explore 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.

    It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Bumthang, thanks to its stunning scenery and deep-rooted history. Drive to Chhumey Valley. From here 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. In the evening, walk around the Trongsa Town and explore the valley for a while. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

11. Day 11 Trongsa – Punakha ▾

    • 140 km Driving distance
    • 4 hr Driving time
    • 1,310 m Altitude of Punakha

    After breakfast, 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. While in Punakha, check in hotel. Afternoon, experience Rafting.

    Explore the Khuruthang town for a while on the way back to hotel. Dinner and overnight in Hotel.

12. Day 12 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.

13. Day 13 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.

14. Day 14 Departure ▾

    Your 14 days of Bhutan travel with Bumthang Cultural trek comes to an end with a drive to paro Airport and farewell.

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