Hike the Trans Bhutan Trail
Experience Overview
The kingdom of Bhutan in the Himalayas sits between two spiritual hubs – Tibet and India – and is one of Asia’s best-kept secrets. On this active adventure, you’ll discover there is no better way to explore it than on foot as you hike through country that’s full of protected forest, so it absorbs more carbon than it uses. Feel closer to enlightenment as you hike along the restored Trans Bhutan Trail which will immerse you in the past, present and future. Uncover Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage on a journey that explores forested valleys, fortified monasteries and sacred mountains on your own two feet and discover the beauty of its people, landscape and culture with a local leader who will help you unlock its secrets.
Highlights
- Take in panoramic views of the Himalayas from the Dochula Pass, which sits more than 3000 m above sea level and is home to many fluttering prayer flags.
- Hike along the Divine Madman Trail, believed to be a trail followed by Drukpa Kuenley – a famous Buddhist monk, missionary and poet who came to Bhutan from Tibet.
- Explore the country’s biggest Dzong (a complex of fortified buildings which served as a Buddhist school) in Trongsa at the end of your hike from Chendebji.
- Wander around the remote, lush and beautiful Tang Valley and Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), famous for being one of the most serene places in Bhutan to meditate.
- Journey to Taktsang, commonly known as the Tiger's Nest – a small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 m above the valley floor – and soak in its magnificence.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2143
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,walking
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HJXB
Starts: Paro - Thimphu, Bhutan
Finishes: Paro, Bhutan
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (10), Lunch (10), Dinner (10)Accommodation: Hotel (10 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6,450 ($586 /day)
Itinerary
Kuzu Zangpo la! Welcome to Bhutan. When you arrive at Paro International Airport, you’ll be met by your local leader at the arrival gate and transferred to Thimphu – Bhutan’s Capital city. Along the way, stop at the Tachogang Lhakhang Temple, founded by Thankthong Gyelpo – a man who’s revered in Tibetan and Bhutanese culture. After the temple, continue to Thimphu and check into your hotel, where you’ll have time to freshen up before heading out for an orientation walk around Thimphu’s highlights. Tonight, head off with your leader and group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and learn about the rich history of Bhutanese cuisine as you tuck into a traditional feast, including seasonal vegetables and the country’s signature dish – red rice with a tasty chili cheese.
Included Activities:
- Tachogang Lhakhang temple visit
- Thimphu exploratory evening walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, embark on the Buddha Point Park Hike, which will start from Debsi towards Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang) – home to the country’s largest Buddha statue. The Buddha Dordenma is located on a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Thimphu Valley and the colourful, fluttering prayer flags while heading up the hill. After, continue to Changangkha then have some lunch. This afternoon, you’ll visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum, more commonly known as the Arts & Crafts School or Painting School, where you can watch students learning traditional artistic skills. At the National Library, you’ll see printing blocks for prayer flags and many beautiful archaic texts.
Included Activities:
- Thimphu - Institute for Zorig Chusum
- Thimphu - National Library
- Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang) walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, travel along the Dochula Pass, which sits more than 3000 m above sea level and is marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten and more colourful prayer flags. If the weather’s clear, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas as you hike along the scenic trail. This afternoon, visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang – a temple built in honour of the fourth King Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuk which celebrates the 100th anniversary of the monarchy in Bhutan. Then, travel down to the valley and hike a section known as the Divine Madman Trail. It’s believed that Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the Divine Madman, came here from Tibet to overpower evil spirits. After a stop for lunch in the beautiful village of Lumitsawa, continue walking until Thinleygang Lhakhang Temple before driving to your hotel in Lobesa.
Included Activities:
- Dochula Pass hike
- Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple visit
- Divine Madman Trail hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Pelela Pass and re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail at the boundary between western and central Bhutan. Along the way, visit the Rukubji Lhakhang Temple and enjoy a hot lunch prepared by the locals. After, transfer to the beautiful village of Chendebji – home to the Chendebji Chorten. If you’ve been to Kathmandu in Nepal, this large white structure might look familiar as it was built to resemble the famous Bouddhanath Stupa. From Chendebji, you’ll continue to Trongsa and visit the Trongsa Dzong, the largest and most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. After you’ve enjoyed the view, check into your hotel where you may like to enjoy a relaxing evening after a full day of exploring.
Included Activities:
- Trans Bhutan trail hike - Pelela pass/Chendebji
- Chendebji Chorten monument visit
- Trongsa Dzong (Buddhist school) visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
If your group didn’t have time to visit Trongsa Dzong yesterday, there’s time for a visit this morning before you drive to Yotongla Pass, where you’ll re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail. After hiking over the pass, you’ll descend through green meadows and open forest until you reach the serene Gyaltsa River. After you’ve had a rest, follow this river until you reach Gyaltsa Village where your private transfer to Bumthang will be waiting. Stop for lunch along the trail, then arrive in Bumthang and check into your hotel for the next two nights. You’ll then head out to visit Bumthang Brewery – producers of Bhutan’s celebrated Red Panda Beer. Nearby is Bhutan’s only commercial cheese factory and both the factory and the brewery are legacies of a Swiss-run development project called Swiss Farm, which introduced distinctive European farming and production techniques into the Bumthang area.
Included Activities:
- Trans Bhutan Trail hike - Yotongla Pass/Gyaltsa village
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, head out to explore the secluded Tang Valley. You'll have time to take in the tranquil location, home to sacred shrines, herds of yaks and lush hillsides dotted with grazing sheep. When you arrive in Tang Village, hike across the suspension bridge towards the century-old Ugyensholing Heritage Museum. Then, drive to Pema Choling Nunnery, where women and girls follow a nine-year course in the Nyingma Peling Buddhist tradition and are known for a particular drum ceremony known as ‘chod’. You’ll then head south along the Trans Bhutan Trail towards the sacred Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), where, in the 15th century, the great treasure hunter Pema Lingpa is said to have discovered several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures. You might like to meditate among the calm surroundings before you continue the hike through the forest and reach the small village of Phomrong, where your vehicle will be waiting for you.
Included Activities:
- Tang Valley walk
- Ugyencholing Heritage Museum visit
- Tang Valley - Farmhouse lunch
- Hike: Nunnery - Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) – Phomrong village
- Pema Choling Nunnery
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, head back to Punakha via Trongsa to walk along one of the most iconic sections of the Trans Bhutan Trail and recreate what it was like for those arriving in the city of Trongsa many years ago (on foot). You’ll descend to the Mangde River, then cross the old cantilever bridge, heading for the steep climb through the forest to the Trongsa Viewpoint. Rest here a while to soak up the views, then you can sit back and relax on the drive to Punakha, where you’ll spend the night.
Included Activities:
- Trans Bhutan Trail hike - Trongsa Dzong/Mangde River/Trongsa Viewpoint
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, drive to Dochulla Pass, where you’ll start your hike to Simtokha. Throughout the hike, you’ll be treated to a scenic path that runs alongside small villages and meandering streams, giving you a glimpse into Bhutanese life and culture. Prepare yourself for one of the longest hours hikes of this trip! After reaching Simtokha, you’ll drive to Paro. Check-in to the hotel and relax for the rest of the evening.
Included Activities:
- Dochula Pass to Simtokha Hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, drive up to Tsendona where you’ll re-join the Trans Bhutan Trail for a short hike. Walk through the thin pine forests to the upper reaches of Dopshari and enjoy the spectacular views over the Paro Valley. Take time to enjoy the scenery before reaching the traditional village of Dopshari. Enjoy a delicious hot lunch in the village where you might have the opportunity to try Ema Datshi (a traditional Bhutanese dish made with chili peppers, onions and yak cheese). After, visit Ta Dzong, which was originally built as a watchtower but now houses a National Museum. Join your leader for a tour of the extensive collection of antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons, armour, household objects and historic artifacts. Then, stroll around the local market of Paro before driving back to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Included Activities:
- Trans Bhutan Trail hike - Paro Valley/Dop-Shari
- Ema Datshi - traditional Bhutanese lunch
- Paro - Tadzong Museum
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, lace up your hiking boots and set off on a long hike to the Taktshang Monastery – one of Bhutan’s most famous monasteries. Sitting on the side of a cliff 900 m above the Paro Valley floor, it’s also known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site is considered to be a deeply sacred place and is visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of the building but now has been restored to its original splendour. Along the way, you’ll also visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang – one of 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. This is one of the country’s most famous temples as it marks the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. After you’ve returned to your hotel and had time to freshen up, join your leader for a stroll around the streets and market area of Paro.
Included Activities:
- Paro - Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, your adventure will come to an end and your driver will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your flight out of Bhutan.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Amy - Traveled, April 2024
I loved this tour. Bhutan is an amazing country, learning from the errors of much of the world, to guide its development in a sustainable and thoughtful fashion. I learned a lot about Bhutan and the Buddhist religion from our wonderful guide Sanjay. I had always thought nothing would beat my Intrepid Galapogas tour, but now it's a tied first!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Janina - Traveled, April 2024
An absolutely fabulous holiday that was incredibly well organised. The hikes are well thought out and were wonderful. The Intrepid team offered great support and were lots of fun as well!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2024
Tamara - Traveled, April 2024
Bhutan is an amazing country to visit. The locals are exceptionally welcoming and the food was fantastic. My husband has a nut allergy and was able to eat all the meals
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2024
Narelle - Traveled, April 2024
What an outstanding experience this trip was! I highly recommend it. Our guide Sangay was so knowledgeable and passionate that his enthusiasm was infectious. The hotels were great and the food was delicious. The itinerary was a great balance of hiking and cultural activities. Just book it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2024
Elizabeth (Betty) - Traveled, October 2023
Thanks for the opportunity to realise my long held dream to explore and experience Bhutan. It was magical to trek the beautiful countryside, see gorgeous temples and meet the people in this land of "gross happiness" - may they retain this magical outlook on life!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/06/2023
Agnes - Traveled, October 2023
An extraordinary trip: Bhutan is an amazing country and this trip allows to discover its scenery, culture and people. Pratap was a great guide, I warmly recommend it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/11/2023
Thomas - Traveled, September 2023
Bhutan is a very interesting and beautiful country with a fascinating culture and history. However the people make it special. Our guide was very helpful and supportive in showing us the country. I would probably not recommend this hike as it was too close to the rainy season and many trails were still flooded and river crossing became dangerous. The TBT is not like some other trails that I have been on as it needs access by car. Some days are spent exclusively walking downhill which may be related to the high altitude but needs to be made clear. Hotels, guides, food and cultural programs were all very interesting. I would have appreciated more hiking.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Franziska - Traveled, May 2023
It's not a TREKKING trip. But we learnt a lot about cultur, buddhism, the country, and, and, and. Our guides were excellent in all this topics. We visited importend and beautiful places like fortresses, temples, museums, schools, all very informativ with a lot of different activities - except poor hiking hours.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/02/2023
Sarah - Traveled, March 2023
Have just returned from the Hike the Trans Bhutan Trail with Intrepid. It was the most beautiful trekking I have ever done. Bhutan is better than the pictures. Our guide, Pratab, was awesome - he brought all the history of the fortresses and deities to life with such enthusiasm. The trails are through beautiful forests where the trees are heavy with lichen as the air is so clean; through lovely uplands with Yak roaming around where we met nomads who were so friendly. By pure luck, we were at a restaurant as the future spiritual leader was passing and were invited by Pratab to be blessed with the rest of the villagers. The buddhist temples were awe-inspiring - we saw some amazing dancing and heard some inspirational chanting. I would recommend this trip to everyone who loves hiking and has an adventurous spirit.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/24/2023
Gurpreet - Traveled, May 2024
I have just returned from the most phenomenal Bhutan trip, which exceeded my expectations in every way. This trip is a great way to see the natural beauty of Bhutan as well understand how the locals live, all whilst hiking. We also had the opportunity to learn and experience the culture and Buddhism in a unique way, creating a lasting impression. The Intrepid lead (Sangay) and his team were super organized and structured to ensure we had the best experience every day- executing with fun, positive energies and going beyond to looked after every individual and their needs. I wholeheartedly would recommend visiting Bhutan - and this trip to experience the beautiful country, culture ands its people - a truly memorable time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2024
Alex - Traveled, May 2024
The only way I can describe this trip is magical. The guide welcomed us with generosity and open arms into his country and home. Each day is completely unique and will make you fall in love with Bhutan and the people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2024
Jeremy - Traveled, April 2024
This was the most special and enjoyable Intrepid-style trip that I have ever been on. The experience was made even more special by the amazingly friendly, knowledgeable and professional Team leading the trip and the obvious passion that they felt and expressed for beautiful Bhutan was truly amazing!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/30/2024
Roz - Traveled, November 2023
The TBT is a fabulous trip for anyone curious about Bhutanese culture - an ancient and remote society where the Royal family is revered, there was no currency prior to 1968, and it is common practice to have 4 wives or 4 husbands. A culture where the worst sins are anger, ignorance and greed..... an enrichment and delight to visit this staggeringly unspoilt mountainous country.... and a great physical challenge too.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/04/2023
Jason - Traveled, May 2024
Awesome trip with the right balance of hiking, culture and sightseeing. Sangay and his team were amazing
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/24/2024
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