Ancient Bhutan Trail Hikes

Haa, nestled in a quaint and secluded valley in the western frontier, exudes serene charm. While the journey takes approximately two and a half hours, we’ll pause to explore Kila Gompa, nestled just below the majestic Chele La. Here, several temples and retreat huts cling to the cliffside, creating a mesmerizing sight.

Crossing Chele La pass, Bhutan’s highest motorable point at 3,988 meters, we descend into Haa valley. We’ll optimize our remaining time with a mix of driving and walks, exploring Lhakhang Karpo, Takchu Goempa Monastery, and a nearby village.

As night falls, indulge in traditional Haa delicacies.

After breakfast, transfer to Katsho to begin the Trans Bhutan trail hike, following the historic path used for generations by locals to trade with the people of Paro. The trail meanders alongside the scenic Haa River, gradually ascending from Katsho village through yak pastures and into pine and rhododendron forests. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Cliffside Hermitage of Jungneydra with an optional additional hike.
Begin your ascend starting at around 2800m above Katsho, the trail leads to the pass gradually at Kaleyla (approx 3700m), where it intersects the ridge trail between Chelela and Sagala. From here, marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan range to the north, including Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichudrakegang on clear days. A picnic lunch will be provided en route.
Descending from Kaleyla, the trail winds through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests into the Paro Valley. Upon arrival in the Ngopa gewog of Paro, meet your transport and drive to the hotel.
If time permits, explore the Kichu Lhakhang and Dumtshe Lhakhang temples.

After breakfast, embark on a short drive along farm road to Damchennag above Paro (2800m), where you’ll reconnect with the Trans Bhutan Trail heading east. Begin your uphill hike, passing through settlements and apple orchards before entering the mossy forest. After about 2 hours, you’ll reach Jele Dzong, a temple inhabited by a few monks, situated on a ridge overlooking Paro Valley to the west and Tsaluna valley to the east. Explore the temple, which houses a large Buddha statue, before descending into Tsaluna Valley, a stretch known for exotic bird sightings, taking about 3 hours.

From Tsaluna, drive approximately 1 hour to Thimphu. Once there, visit the Centennial Farmer’s Market, and if time allows, take a drive to see the Giant Buddha Statue. The ridge offers breathtaking views of both sunset and sunrise.

Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, features a blend of contemporary and medieval attractions, from the revered Changangkha Temple to the iconic Memorial Chorten, Traditional Schools of Arts & Crafts, the traditional hand-made Paper Factory, the Textile Academy & Museum, and more. Explore the Traditional Medicine Institute, observe Bhutan’s National Animal at the Takin Preserve, and visit the National Library and the majestic Tashi Chho Dzong. Don’t miss witnessing the traditional game of Archery at Changlomithang ground. Thimphu offers diverse sightseeing options, catering to cultural immersion or adventurous exploration. Customize your experience by splitting your time between traditional sightseeing and a leisurely two-hour hike from the Giant Buddha to Changangkha, offering panoramic views of the capital. With a flexible itinerary, you can enjoy an experience tailored to your preferences.

Drive eastward, ascending to Dochula Pass (3150m), a journey lasting around 40 minutes. Visit the site of 108 stupas and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of distant mountain peaks, particularly on clear days.

After descending from the pass, rejoin the special part of the Trans Bhutan Trail, known as the Divine Madman trail, steeped in popular legends and stories. This segment of the hike follows in the footsteps of the Divine Madman himself, who journeyed from Tibet to Bhutan in the 16th century to fulfill his destiny of suppressing evil energies. Visit the Toeb Chandana village house and the temple of the descendants, where the arrow of the Divine Madman fell; legend has it that when Drukpa Kuenley fired an arrow from Tibet to determine his path, it landed here in Toeb Chandana. The hike will last roughly about 3 hours, concluding in Mendrelgang/Thinleygang village, where we will drive the rest of the way. Visit Chimi Lhakhang temple, where you can hear more stories of Drukpa Kinley, the divine madman. Finally, explore Rinchengang village, nestled opposite the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, characterized by its cluster of interconnected houses, narrow alleyways, and renowned locals skilled in stone and masonry work.

Embark on your journey with a visit to Punakha Dzong, renowned as the most aesthetically beautiful dzong in Bhutan.

Crossing a long suspension bridge, you’ll once again join the Trans Bhutan Trail, leading you to Limukha (Lingmukha) village. Starting (approx 1400m) amidst picturesque paddy fields, the trail ascends gradually, offering a breathtaking view of the Punakha valley, leading to a chorten (stupa) marking the day’s highest point. Descend into the picturesque Lingmukha village (2100m), with some segments following the feeder road. Explore Lingmukha Lhakhang and immerse yourself in village life. This trek spans approximately 4 hours. Afterwards, drive back via Khuruthang town along the way.

Drive back to Docula Pass (3150m), and embark on a hike to visit Lungchutse Retreat (3550m) and Tashigang Goempa (3200m). While not officially part of the Trans Bhutan Trail, this stunning nature trek is highly recommended.
Ascend gently through forests of rhododendron, juniper, giant hemlock, and birch trees for approximately 2 hours until you reach a retreat center and the beautiful Lungchutse temple, offering panoramic views of Bhutan’s major peaks to the north.
Afterwards, gradually descend for another hour to a hillock known as Trashigang Goempa, featuring a monastery and numerous retreat houses. Reunite with your vehicle and drive back to Paro.
You’ll still have some free time to explore any remaining sights in Paro, including the ancient Kichu temple and other attractions.

Transfer to the trailhead for the hike to the iconic Taktsang monastery (3120m), a journey of about 2-3 hours.

After exploring the temples and waterfalls, instead of returning like most visitors, we will continue the hike further uphill to Zangdoperi temple (3200m) via Machephu caves. After visiting Zangdoperi and enjoying a panoramic view of Taktsang from above, we will proceed to Ugyen Tsemo temple (3250m), situated directly above the Tiger’s Nest monastery.

We’ll then make our way down from the other side of Taktsang, where another challenging-to-access temple is part of the main Taktsang complex.

Our return journey downhill follows a quieter trail through dense forests. This full-day adventure concludes with a farewell dinner in the evening.

Transfer to airport on time for your outbound journey. In case, if the flight is in afternoon, we can make morning hours useful by visiting more of Paro Valley.