The Bumthang Valley, Nepal and Bhutan

Gentle Himalayan trekking and spectacular festivals

Visiting Bhutan is a unique experience in its own right and exploring the Bumthang Valley allows us to delve into one of the most untouched and traditional areas of this fascinating country. Not only does this area provide opportunities for stunning mountain walks, but due to its remoteness it has also retained a unique cultural identity. Our gentle trek allows us to explore the beauty of the mighty Himalaya at an easy pace as we walk over a high pass and through meadows, forests of Blue pine and bamboo groves, stopping at local villages and meeting the welcoming locals. No trip to Bhutan is complete without a visit to its stunning Buddhist dzongs (temples) and festivals. On our spring departure we take part in the sacred rituals of the colourful Domkar Festival, while in autumn we take in the iconic Thimpu festival in September and the spectacular fire dances of the unique Jambay Lhakhang Festival in October, perfect for those who wish to get off the beaten track. Please note that the itinerary shown on the website is the April 2013 itinerary. Though all departures visit the same areas the itineraries do change in order to fit around specific festivals. You can download trip notes from relevant departures to get the specific itineraries for those departures.

What makes this trip responsible?

When visiting Dzongs or monasteries please dress respectfully. Arms and legs should be covered. Hats should be removed before entering. Please walk round any religious place in a clockwise direction. It is usual to leave a small donation (Nu10/20) when visiting a temple. You will also need to remove your shoes when entering temples. By law, $70 of the daily cost of any trip in Bhutan goes towards education and health.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: Bhutan, Nepal

Day 1

Depart London.

Day 2

Start Kathmandu.

Day 3

Spectacular flight to Paro with breathtaking views over the Himalaya; drive to Thimpu and visit Semtokha Dzong and Trashichi Dzong.

Day 4

Visit Memorial Chorten, handicraft emporium and painting school; drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula, Chimi Lhakhang and Punakha Dzong.

Day 5

Visit Wangdi Dzong and the weavers in Chumey en route to Bumthang.

Day 6

Spend the day at Domkhar Festival

Day 7

To Thangbi Lhakhang, to start our trek; camp at Ngang Lhakhang (2800m).

Day 8

Gradual climb to Phelhe La Pass (3465m); descend to Takung Valley through beautiful forests.

Day 9

Gradual walk up and then down to Gamling; drive via Mebar Tsho (Flaming Lake) to Trongsa.

Day 10

Drive to Wangdi after visiting Trongsa Dzong and Museum.

Day 11

Drive to Paro; and visit Rinpung Dzong and the Paro Museum.

Day 12

Hike to Tiger's Nest monastery;

Day 13

Fly to Kathmandu

Day 14

End Kathmandu

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