Eco Hiking and Culture tours in Bhutan

The walk is thoughtfully paced, making it suitable for participants of all fitness levels. This leisurely pace allows for a more profound connection with the rural surroundings, providing insights into the daily lives of the Bhutanese people. As you traverse the trail, take in the natural beauty, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy the tranquility that surrounds you. The journey not only offers a physical experience but also becomes a spiritual and cultural exploration. After completing the panorama walk, return to the lodge for a restful overnight stay. Reflect on the day’s experiences and the unique insights gained into the traditional lifestyle of Bhutan.

The day hike or  trek today is popularly also known as the Planters Trail; in the old day’s farmers from Haa walked this same trail to Paro for rice plantation and in return they would be paid with rice in return for their labour, as rice was not possible to grow in the Haa valley. After an early breakfast, drive to the village of Thaklung to commence your trek. Cross yak grazing meadows and ascend gradually through pristine alpine forest trails that once connected the valleys of Haa and Paro. Once at Sagala Pass savor the panoramic views including that of the Mt. Jhomolhari (7315 mts) and Jitchu Drake (6989 mts). Following a short lunch break, begin your descent of about 2 hours plus and arrive at our tented campsite in Choedue (2,865m). Overnight in comfortable deluxe tents with proper beds and attached toilets.

Walking Time: 6 hrs. Altitude gain: 740m Altitude loss: 855m

  After breakfast, we embark on a leisurely one and half hour stroll through a serene pine forest, eventually reaching the road where your vehicle awaits. The path takes you to the small settlement of Drukgyel, 2525 m. This morning walk not only offers a refreshing start to the day but also provides an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us.

Following our tranquil walk, we drive about an hour to the capital city, Thimphu, Visit the lively Farmer’s Market, where vibrant colors and the bustle of daily life characterize the atmosphere. Here, we can engage with the local culture and witness the exchange of fresh produce and handmade goods. In the afternoon, we embark on a brief tour of the magnificent Tashichho Dzong. Similar to many dzongs in Bhutan, this fortress-like structure serves dual purposes, housing both administrative offices and the monastic community. Notably, the premises also include the office of the King of Bhutan, adding a touch of regal significance to our visit.

Begin the day by visiting the Buddha Point close to the city. The Dordenma Buddha Shakyamuni statue is a massive structure 54 mts in height and manifest’s Peace and Happiness for all sentient beings. From here head towards the Dochu La Pass (3,140m/10,302ft), and over to Punakha valley. At the pass make a short coffee break and view the panoramic Himalayas with the impressive 108 Memorial Chortens in the backdrop. Descend through varied forests until you reach the warmer Punakha valley. A short detour to visit the most impressive Wangduephodarng will be well worth the effort. The Wangduephodtang Dzong was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal around the same time as the Punakha Dzong in the 17th century. History has it that this Dzong was built to fulfill the prophecy of unifying the country. This Dzong is also proof of the resilience of the people since it was built rebuilt four times after the Dzong was destroyed due to natural calamities like, earthquake and fire. Drive 30 minutes or so to Punakha for overnight.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Paro, stopping at the impressive and beautiful Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Mo and Po Chuu rivers. The Dzong itself is the second largest and also the second oldest in the country. Built by Shabdrung Ngwang Namgay in the 17th century and is all the more precious because it houses the relics of the Shabdrung himself and one of the foremost religious master Pema Lingpa. Punakha used to be the capital of the country until as early as 1954. On the return drive heading back to Paro visit the renowned Chimi Lhakhang, a temple built by the “Divine Madman”. Legend has it that barren couples are able to bear children after receiving blessings here. After 3 hours on the road with short breaks along the way arrive in Paro and overnight at Nemjo Heritage Lodge, a beautifully curated farm house with all the comforts of a hotel.

The best is kept for last!. The Taktsang Monastery, also famously known as the Tigers Nest was built in 1692 by the then ruler Gyalmo Tenzin Rabgye and is one of the 13 Tiger Nest caves in historical Tibet in which Guru Padmashambava practiced and preached Vajrayana Buddhism. The monastery lies at an altitude 3120
meters and offer’s the best views of the Paro valley below. The hike excursion takes anywhere between 3 to 5 hours depending on the level of fitness. On the return it is a must to visit the oldest, beautiful and quaint Kichu Lhakhang . The Lhakhang is one of the 108 temples that was built by the Tibetan King Songsten Gempo in the 7 th century and houses one of the most magnificent Sakyamuni and Chenrigzi statues.