Wilderness of Chomolhari Trek

Bhutan

Duration

15 Days

Group Size

2-12 People

Grade

Easy

Max. Altitude

4950 m

On this 15 day tour and trek you not just embrace an amazing opportunity to trek the hotspots of Bhutan but also get to feast on an incredible diversity of mountains and ecosystems. A hike to Takstang Monastery provides ample acclimatization for a delightful trek from Drugyal dzong towards campsite at Shana (2800m) and thereon to Soi, Thangthangkha and then to Jangothang. A rest day in Jangothang acclimatizes you completely for further trek to Lingshi, Shodu, Barshong and finally to Dodina. Along the trekking trail, nature scintillates you with its lush forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, juniper, bamboo and spruce, Pachu River gracing down the majestic landscape, outstanding views of Chomolhari (7320m), Jichu Drake (6900m) and Tshrim Khang, cliffs overlooking stunning views of cascading waterfalls, yak pastures and trout-fishing sites. If you get lucky, you may get to spot rare fauna like blue sheep and snow leopard. Eventually, after insightful sightseeing in Thimpu you will be farewell to Bhutan with indelible trekking experience, photographs and mementos that intimately bond you to Bhutan and its people throughout your lifetime.

Places you'll See

Highlights

Map & Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu.

It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay with you for a long, long time. A representative and driver from Explorer Nepal will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into Hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities.

Check in at the hotel. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

After breakfast at the hotel, commence the sightseeing tour of Kathmandu city, Swayambhunath and Patan city. Kathmandu city: Kasthamandap, the source of the name Kathmandu means ‘made from the timber of a single tree’. Also known as Kantipur, the capital Kathmandu is the hub of Nepal’s art and culture. It is a place for rest, relaxation and easy-day sightseeing of historic and artistic temples and monuments. Kathmandu Durbar Square with its arrays of temples, Seto Machhindranath and the ancient palace of the former Nepali Royals enriches your experience of the centuries old civilisation. Swayambhunath Stupa: Said to be around 2000 years old, this Buddhist Stupa sits atop a hill. The main stupa is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire crowned by a pinnacle of Copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. The hill of Swayambhunath is a mosaic of small Chaityas and Pagoda temples. You’ll get a scenic view of Kathmandu city from there. Patan city: Located about 5 km south of Kathmandu, Patan is one of 3 royal cities in the valley. A destination for connoisseurs of fine arts, Patan is filled with wood and stone carvings, metal statues, ornate architecture, including dozens of Buddhist and Hindu temples, and over 1200 monuments. Patan is believed to have been built in the third century B.C. by the Kirat dynasty later expanded and enriched by the Licchavi and the Malla rulers in the medieval period. Patan Durbar Square, like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting mélange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. The former Royal palace complex is the centre of Patan’s religious and social life, and houses a beautiful museum.

Overnight at Hotel.

Day 3: Fly Paro by Druk Air.

After breakfast at the hotel transfer to airport fly to Paro. Arrive Paro by Druk air BAe 146-100 series, the only national carrier. The flight into the Himalayas is truly a memorable experience. As the aircraft enters the Paro valley, look down and you will see the Paro Dzong overlooking the Paro chu (river) with Ta Dzong (National Museum) above it. On arrival and after visa formalities you will be received by our representative and escort you to Kichu resort. If time prevails visit the National museum and Rinpung Dzong

Check in Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at hotel.

Day 4: Hike to Taktsang monastery.

To acclimatize or hike to Taktsang monastery meaning a tiger’s den lies at an altitude of 3000m which takes about 2/3 hours. The monastery was gutted by fire in 1998 but the remains of the structure still attract visitors. The Royal Government has taken immediate steps to restore and re-construct the old structure. Tea and snacks will be served at the cafeteria where you can gaze at this beautiful monument built during the 17th century. Stroll back to Kichu resort. Evening at leisure.

Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Drive to Drugyel Dzong and trek to Shana camp.

Trek begins from Drugyal Dzong – Shana and the walking distance is 16 kilometers and takes 5/6 hours. The path leads down to the Pa Chu river and runs on the left side passing villages and scattered farmlands. Before reaching the camp you will cross a military camp and trekking permits have to be produced. A nice campsite known as Shana Zam at an altitude of 2800m is located just beyond the military camp.