Bumdra Trek

Day 01: Arrival in Paro and transfer to Thimphu(60kms and 1 hr drive)

Once you land at the Paro International Airport(2250mtrs), you will be well received by our Professional Tour Guide and Driver.

After that, proceed to Thimphu visiting a few places on the way:

Tachog Monastery and Iron Bridge: Viewing from a hilltop, this Monastery was built in the 15th century by a great spiritual master Thang Thong Gyelpo. In addition, he also built an Iron Bridge which your guide will show you on the way to the Monastery. After the Monastery, continue till the mid-way where you will witness the confluence of two rivers, “Pa Chu” and “Wang Chu” accompanied by three different types of Stupas (Tibetan, Bhutanese, and Nepalese). After a short walk, continue your journey till you reach Thimphu(Capital City of Bhutan).

After the arrival, have lunch/snacks and visit the following places:

Kuensel Phodrang(Buddha Point): Standing at a height of 169ft(51.5m) is The Buddha Dordenma which was built from 2006 to 2015 to have peace and prosperity in the world.

Takin Preserve Centre: Here you can witness the National Animal of Bhutan Takin who has the head of a goat and the body of a cow. Mythologically it was created by a great spiritual master Lam Drukpa Kuenley(Divine Mad Man) in the 15th century and it is an endangered species.

Painting School: It is a school where students learn 13 arts and crafts like wood carving, painting, embroidery, sculpturing, tailoring, etc. You can witness the students learning the skills in different classrooms.

Tashichho Dzong(Fortress): Built in the 17th Century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal(First Governor of Bhutan), it is divided into two parts: Administrative block and Monastic block. It also houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan. Moreover, the annual Festival “Tshechu” is also celebrated at this Fortress. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 02: Thimphu Local Sightseeing

After breakfast visit the following places:

Cheri Monastery: Take a 45 minutes drive to reach the base of Cheri Monastery and embrace an hour hike to the Monastery. Built in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is the retreat centre for the Drukpa lineage of  Kagyu sect of Buddhism. Your guide will give you the insights of the Monastery.

Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery: Established in 1976 by the 16th emanation of Thangtong Gyalpo(Iron Bridge Builder),Drubthob Rikey Jadrel. Here the nuns they study Buddhism and dedicate their lives for community service. Currently is has about 70 nuns.

National Library and Archives: This Library was established in 1967 to preserve and promote the rich cultural and religious heritage of Bhutan where sacred religious books and manuscripts are collected. In addition, it also has the world’s Largest Book.

Folk Heritage Museum: Established in 2001 by the Queen Mother, the Museum provides the insights of Bhutanese culture and it’s way of life. It showcases the typical Bhutanese house with living room, storage room, alter room, kitchen, tools and utensils used by them. You will also witness the process of making the local wine(Ara) and the roasted rice(Zau).

Textile Museum: Established in 2001 by the Queen Mother, it showcases the textile and the art of weaving. Make a visit to know the textiles and the techniques used to weave the Bhutanese attire.

Centenary Vegetable Market: Explore the local vegetable market where you will find the local and organic fruits, vegetables, dairy products, etc.

Visit Changlimithang Archery Ground: Here you will witness the live Archery(National Game) matches. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 03: Excursion to Dochu La Pass(3150mtrs) and transfer to Paro(2250mtrs) and sightseeing.

Dochula Pass(30mins): Drive to beautiful Dochu La Pass(3150m) where you will find the 108 stupas built in 2003 by the Queen Mother. Additionally, you can also have a view of the Himalayan Mountain Ranges if the weather is clear. Proceed back to Paro via Thimphu.

Dungtse Lhakhang: The temple was built in the form of chorten(stupa) by Thang Thong Gyalpo in 15th century to subdue a serpentine force that was located at the foundation of the temple. It has three floors representing hell, earth and heaven.

Ta Dzong(National Museum): Built in 1649 as a watch Tower by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal so that they could watch over Paro Valley or enemies coming. Later in 1968, it was established as a National Museum of Bhutan.

Paro Ringpung Dzong(Fortress of Heap of Jewel):  Built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal for administrative and monastic purposes for Paro Districts. In 1993 some scenes of a film named Little Buddha were also filmed in this Dzong. Later you can try wearing our national dress Gho(male)/Kira(female) and take photographs(optional). In the evening, explore Paro market by walk. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 04: Paro to Bumdra(3500mtrs) via Sangchokor (7 kms  and 4 hrs hike)
After breakfast drive to Sang Chokor(Buddhist College) from where the Trek will start. From here the hike will start with thick alpine forest and it will take about 4 hours to reach the camping site where you will spent the night. Your camping site for the night will be near Bumdra Monastery(Cave of a Thousand Prayers) where you will have an amazing view of the Himalayan Range.

Day 05: Bumdra to Taktsang to Paro(15kms and 6hrs hike).
After the breakfast, visit the Bumdra Monastery and proceed further towards Paro following the ancient trials enjoying the beautiful rhododendron and the alpine forest. After 4-5  hours trek you will reach to the main highlight of Bhutan, “Taktsang/Tiger’s Nest Monastery.” Visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and continue your journey towards the base where your car and the driver will be looking your way. Upon completion of your trek, you may opt for a Hot Stone Bath for relaxation, if time permits. Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 06: Departure
Taking the good memories of Bhutan, we will say “Lok jay gay”(will meet next time). Please visit Bhutan again and refer us to your friends and families at +97517236237 or mail us at travelmorebhutan@gmail.com.