Bhutan Trek

Trek begins and ends in Paro, Bhutan

Arrive at Paro International Airport, Bhutan (PBH). Mountain Gurus representatives will transfer you to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Check into the hotel. (D)

Our tour begins in the historic city of Thimphu with a traditional Bhutanese festival. Corresponding with the lunar Tibetan calendar this festival involves traditional dances based on the lives and works of prominent ninth century saints. This event also attracts many people from distant villages to socialize and sell their wares. (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we explore the colorful streets and markets in Thimphu before returning to Paro in the early afternoon. The historic city of Paro is known for its historical buildings and sacred sites, including the Rinpung Dzong monastery. (B, L, D)

Perhaps the most iconic monastery in the Himalaya, we will visit Paro Taktsang (Tigers Nest). This monastery has been a center of Buddhist learning for over 300 years. Uniquely situated on the side of a mountain the area has been a renowned meditation site, made famous by Guru Padmasambhava. (B, L, D)

After a hearty breakfast we start our trek in Gunitsawa, a small village bordering Tibet. From here we ascend the gentle trail through forest and orchards to reach Shana / Thombu Thang. Here we will camp for the night. (B, L, D)

Walking along the Paro River we will follow a meandering trail, gaining 250m over the course of 6 hours to Thangthangkha. (B, L, D)

We will start the day early, as this will be the longest and most strenuous day of the trek. Our day will conclude at the base of Mount Jhomolhari also known as “the bride of Kangchenjunga,” which is an 8000m peak located on the border of India and Nepal. (B, L, D)

We will descend to Tshophu Lake, famous for its native ruddy shelducks. These ducks mate for life and have been a symbol for partnership in this region for centuries. After crossing over Bonte La Pass at 4890m we will arrive at our campsite for the evening. (B, L, D

Today is characterized by a short trek over Takhung La pass and descending the village of Thombu Shong where we will see seasonal Yak herders in the green fields. (B, L, D)

This is our last day in the mountain side of Bhutan. We will descend back to Gunitsawa and transfer to Paro. (B, L, D)

We will return to Paro to explore the city more, including a hike above town. This will also be a day to visit local markets and wander the old city. (B, L, D)

After a Bhutanese breakfast we will be transported to the airport for flights home. (B)

Itinerary Notes
Mountain Gurus makes every effort to uphold the scheduled itinerary, although our guides are given discretion to adapt the itinerary for reasons beyond our control or due to the needs of the group. Meal schedule: (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner

Program Location:
Begins and ends in Paro, Bhutan

Visa/Entry Information:
Your passport must be valid for at least six months following the date of your arrival to Bhutan. You need a Bhutanese visa to enter and exit Bhutan. All visas are approved in the capital, Thimphu, and are only issued to tourists who have booked travel with a local licensed tour operator, either directly or through a foreign travel agent. Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the local tour operator. All visitors must obtain visa clearance from Thimphu before travelling to Bhutan. Visa clearance takes at least 7 days to process and airplane tickets to Bhutan cannot be purchased without visa clearance. At your point of entry into Bhutan, immigration authorities will stamp a visa into your passport upon payment of $40 USD. You will also need to provide two passport photos. Tourist visas are usually granted for the scheduled travel period.

Health & Immunizations:
Immunizations are not required for entry into Bhutan

Flight Travel Information:
Paro International Airport (PBH), Bhutan

International Departures:
Itineraries reflect the date and time you will need to arrive in country for a program. Mountain Gurus programs begin and end in the countries destination city. When booking your flight, you will need to account for travel time and crossing the international dateline if needed. It is easiest to give your booking agent the day and time you will need to arrive.

Meals and Food:
All meals are provided as per meal schedule. See itinerary.

Gear:
A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your program will be sent to you in the pre-departure packet upon reservation. For your safety and comfort, it is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.