Tour available date | September-October | 2024 |
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2 Person | Per person USD 2750 |
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4-10 Person | Per person USD 2550 |
Day 1- Paro to Thimphu
You start your journey by flying into Paro on Druk Air/Bhutan Airlines, the national airlines of Bhutan. Upon arrival in Paro, there are visa formalities to be completed. Your guide from “Wildwing Adventure” will meet you at the airport, marking the beginning of your exploration in Bhutan. The journey from Paro to Thimphu includes sightseeing along the way. This drive offers an opportunity to soak in the beauty of the Bhutanese landscape, on a way with a walk to Tachog Lhakhang across the Paro River. This adds a cultural and historical element to your journey. Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is introduced as a city set at 7,725 feet along the Wang Chhu. This gives a sense of the altitude and the picturesque setting of the capital. This allows travelers to engage with the medieval ambiance and enjoy the surroundings before continuing the journey to Thimphu. The day concludes with an overnight stay in a hotel in Thimphu
Day 2- Genekha Village to Gur
The trek covers a distance of 7 kilometers.
You're expected to spend around 5 hours on the journey, indicating a moderately paced trek. The trek involves an ascent of 550 meters and a descent of 60 meters, showcasing a varied terrain. The trek begins at the charming village of Genekha, situated at an altitude of 2750 meters. Following the ancient trails once used by Daga Penlop and his retinue adds a historical and cultural dimension to the trek. The path takes you through an evergreen forest of Blue Pine and Conifer, offering a rich natural experience. The trek leads you to Gur, located at an altitude of 3200 meters. The campsite is set in the Gur Valley, surrounded by a beautiful forest. Additionally, there's an option to camp at Watasachen (4150m) instead of Gur, provided the altitude is suitable for the trekkers. If you choose to camp at Watasachen, you'll need to cross the Pagalaptsha Pass (4250m). The pass offers breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, Tiger Mountain, and Tsheringmeigang. Watasachen also provides an opportunity to explore the village and lifestyle of the nomads of Dagala, known for their cleanliness despite living at altitudes above 4000 meters. A highlight of the day is the chance to explore the village and lifestyle of the nomads in Dagala. This cultural immersion provides insights into their unique way of life. For those who hike an additional 20 to 30 minutes from the nomadic village, there's a reward of stunning views of Nychen Dongkola, Kanchenjunga, and the Phodrang/Palace of Aum Jumo of Dagala.
Day 3- Gur to Labatama
You'll be covering a distance of 12 kilometers on this day.
The trek is estimated to take approximately 6 hours, indicating a moderate pace considering the ascent and varied terrain. This trek journey involves a significant ascent of 1010 meters, showcasing the challenging yet rewarding nature of the trek. Trekking across ridges, you'll be surrounded by rugged mountain vegetation. The journey promises encounters with flowers, wild asparagus (especially in spring), and large meadows, creating a refreshing and visually appealing experience. Climbing gently through scattered birches and rhododendrons, you'll reach the Pagalabtsa Pass at 4250 meters. The pass is marked by huge cairns and offers spectacular views of Kanchenjunga in Sikkim and most of the Bhutanese Himalayan peaks. Descending from the pass, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Dagala range, meadows, and the yak herders' camp. A cultural touch is added with lunch planned at a nearby yak herder's camp. This not only provides sustenance but also an opportunity to experience the local way of life. After lunch, the journey continues with a descent into the Labatama valley. Gradually ascending through the valley, you'll pass by yak herder huts, offering insights into the traditional nomadic lifestyle. The day concludes at Utsho Lake, situated at an altitude of 4300 meters. The lake is known for its abundance of golden trouts. The campsite is set right next to the lake, providing a serene and picturesque setting to rest and reflect.
Day 4- An exploration halt at Labatama.
The day is dedicated to exploring nearby lakes such as Relitsho, Hentsho, Setsho, and Jagetsho Lakes. These lakes are not only full of trouts but also come with mystic stories that your trekking leader will share. This adds a cultural and storytelling element to your exploration, enhancing the overall experience. A highlight of the day is the lunch by the lakeside. With spectacular views surrounding you, this experience is bound to be memorable. The serene atmosphere of the lakeside adds to the charm of the meal, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment. For those seeking an additional challenge, there's an opportunity to attempt to climb the Jomo peak at an altitude of 5050 meters. This climb promises not only a physical challenge but also rewarding panoramic views from the peak. After a day of exploration and adventure, you'll return to the camp by dusk. This provides time to relax, reflect on the day's experiences, and prepare for the next leg of your trek.
Day 5- Labatama to Panka
You will be covering a distance of 5 miles (8 km) in 6-7 hours
Your trek for today sounds absolutely breathtaking, with the promise of stunning views of Himalayan peaks and the opportunity to climb a peak for an even more spectacular panorama. The climb along the western side of Dala Tsho to a saddle at 14,800 ft seems challenging yet rewarding. The view from the saddle, encompassing the Himalayan giants like Everest, Kanchenjunga, Jumolhari, Jitchu Drake, Tshering Gang, Khangbum, Masang Gang, Tshenda Gang, and Gangche Ta, must be an awe-inspiring sight. Climbing to a peak with an altitude of 15,500 ft offers a unique chance to elevate your perspective and witness the grandeur of the surrounding mountain ranges. After soaking in the majestic views, the descent to Docha Chu, passing by yak herder huts, adds a touch of cultural immersion and allows you to appreciate the local way of life. Following the river, you'll eventually reach your camp for the evening at Pankha. The hiking distance of 5 miles (8 km) in 6-7 hours suggests a moderately paced day, giving you ample time to explore, take photographs, and fully appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. It's important to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes, and to pace yourself during the climb.
Day 6- Panka – Tsheregang
You will be covering a distance of 5 miles (8 km) in 5-6 hours
Crossing several passes without major climbs offers a varied and potentially less strenuous hiking experience. The trek from Tale La (13,700 ft) to Talikha Goempa, covering a distance of 5 miles (8 km) in 5-6 hours, indicates a moderate pace, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings. Descending from Tale La to Talikha Goempa suggests a shift from high-altitude landscapes to lower elevations. The change in altitude may bring about a different ecosystem and vegetation, providing a diverse trekking experience. Camping at Tsheregang and being able to witness impressive views of Thimphu below must be a rewarding way to conclude the day. The evening campsite offers an opportunity to relax and soak in the stunning scenery around you.
Day 7- Tsheregang – Chamgang-Paro
You will be covering a distance of 4 miles (6 km) in approximately 3 hours
The concluding part of your journey, from the monastery to the village of Chamgang, and then transferring to Paro, seems like a fitting end to your trekking adventure. The short hike down to an unpaved road covering a distance of 4 miles (6 km) in approximately 3 hours allows you to appreciate the transition from the serene monastery setting to the village atmosphere. Descending from the monastery, you may encounter different landscapes, perhaps passing through forests, fields, or other natural features. The hike to the unpaved road adds a sense of connection to the local surroundings before reaching the village of Chamgang. Arriving at Chamgang, where your transport awaits, provides a convenient and comfortable way to transition from the trek to your next destination, Paro. It also allows you to explore a local village, possibly interacting with the residents and experiencing the culture of the region. As you head to Paro, reflect on the memories and experiences gained during your trek. The journey not only offers physical challenges but also a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bhutanese landscape and its cultural richness.
Day 8- Hike Taktsang Monastery
In the morning, there's a 20 minute drive to the trailhead in Paro, setting the stage for the hike to Taktsang Monastery. The main activity of the day is a 4 to 6 hours' hike up to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. The monastery is perched on a cliff 2,700 feet above the floor of the Paro Valley. The hike follows a steep switchback trail through the forest, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. After reaching Taktsang Monastery, lunch is planned at the tea house located below the monastery. This provides an opportunity to rest and enjoy a meal in a scenic setting. Following lunch, the descent back to the valley floor begins. The return journey allows for a different perspective of the landscape. After completing the hike and exploring Taktsang Monastery, there's a drive back to Paro. Once back in Paro, the itinerary includes a visit to the ancient Kichu Lhakhang. Travelers have the chance to learn about the legends connected to the construction of the temple in the 7th century.The day concludes with an overnight stay in a hotel in Paro.
Day 9- Departure
Board your flight and bid farewell to Bhutan. If the weather is clear, you might catch some final glimpses of the Himalayan peaks as you fly out. Your Bhutanese adventure officially concludes upon reaching your destination.