Hiking Bhutan’s Villages & Heritage Trails

Building on the popularity of our signature Drukyul Walking Tour, this two-week Hiking Bhutan offers the same balance of cultural immersion, scenic walks, and comfortable accommodations—now enhanced with two additional days of hiking in the heart of Bumthang.

Follow the old Bumthang Cultural Trek route to reach the villages of Ngalhakhang and Tang, where time-honored traditions, ancient temples, and rural life unfold in their most authentic form. These hikes add depth to the experience, opening windows into Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and vibrant village culture.

In addition to moderate day hikes, this itinerary features an optional full-day rigorous hike for those seeking a more adventurous challenge. A highlight of the journey is spending two nights in a traditional village guesthouse—a rare opportunity not included in the Drukyul Walking Tour. This stay offers an intimate glimpse into rural Bhutanese life, with its warm hospitality, simple comforts, and authentic local atmosphere.

As with the Drukyul Walking Tour, you’ll also explore monasteries, temples, farms, and historic sites across Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, Gangtey, Trongsa, and Bumthang. Designed to be active yet flexible, this expanded journey provides a rare chance to connect more deeply with Bhutan’s landscapes and people while still traveling in comfort.

This trip is designed for travelers who love being active outdoors and on foot, with minimal driving. Wander through Bhutan’s villages, valleys, and heritage trails, explore historic temples and Dzongs, and stay with local families to taste traditional meals and experience village life. Two days of longer hikes offer a near-trekking adventure, balanced with gentle walks and cultural discoveries for a fully immersive journey.

Hiking Bhutan Heritage Trail Outline Itinerary

Day 1 & 2: Paro Valley
Arrival and gentle explorations of Paro. Full day of easy walks through villages and fields, visiting key temples and monasteries, with a traditional farmhouse lunch.

Day 3 & 4: Bumthang – Cultural Heartland
Scenic flight into Bumthang, the spiritual center of Bhutan. Discover ancient temples, monasteries, and vibrant valley life on foot.

Day 5 & 6: Village Hikes & Homestay
Walk along the old cultural trail to remote villages and experience warm hospitality with local families. The first day’s hike is easy, while the second day is longer, with the option of a vehicle transfer if preferred. Overnights are in simple yet clean family-run guesthouses.

Day 7: Tang, Chumey & Trongsa
Explore manor houses, weaving villages, and nunneries before continuing west to Trongsa Dzong, a fortress steeped in royal history.

Day 8: Longtey to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)
Hike across rhododendron forests and alpine meadows into the glacial valley of Phobjikha, home of black-necked cranes.

Day 9 & 10: Wangdue & Punakha
Descend into the fertile Punakha Valley to explore villages and key monuments. Enjoy moderate hikes through terraced fields and forests, with delightful picnics along the way.

Day 11 & 12: Dochula & Thimphu
Take a scenic ridge hike near Dochula Pass with sweeping Himalayan views before continuing to Thimphu. Spend the next day exploring the capital’s monasteries, museums, bustling markets, and cultural landmarks.

Day 13: Paro – Tiger’s Nest
Conclude with the iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), with sweeping valley views and a farewell dinner.

Day 14: Departure