This Rodungla Trek was once an important trade route in the past but has fallen into disuse now and is chiefly used as a trekking trail. This trek does not ascend to very high altitudes,
, it is still fairly challenging as the trail covers some fairly steep climbs and descents. The trail takes us from Bumthang in Central Bhutan to Trashiyangtse in the far Eastern Bhutan.
The trail passes through alpine and bamboo forests, meadows and mountain passes, through villages and temples offering trekkers an incredible array of biodiversity to appreciate. This trek is best carried out in winter between October-Early November or in spring between April-Early May.
Trekking provides the best opportunity to experience and explore the real heart of Bhutan.
Discover a unique insight into the rural culture of the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Close contact with the people living in the remote areas of Bhutan.
Explore and appreciate the pristine environment of Bhutan.
Enjoy with the wilderness experiences in Bhutan.
Explore the adventure tours of Bhutan.
Enjoy with majestic views of the country’s virgin landscapes and unclimbed mountains.
Explore the routes taken by our ancestral.
Trekking through the beautiful lakes of Bhutan.
Day 01. Arrive to Paro International Airport.
The flight into Paro on our national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of our country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks like Gangkar Puensum, give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land. Your Bhutanese escort from Authentic Bhutan Tours- For Your Bhutan Experience! will warmly welcome & greet you on arrival, and then drive you to the Paro Rimpung Dzong, the center of civil and religious authority in this region. Lunch will be served at Paro Restaurant.
After lunch we will visit to Paro National Museum, it holds fascinating collections of art, relics, religious Thangka paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. Evening stroll around Paro town. Welcome dinner and over night stay at Paro hotel. Mandala Resort or similar standard.
Meal Plan: Welcome Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Day 02. Paro - Thimphu
Today we will do hiking to Tiger’s Nest (Taktshang Monastery), the most important and religious significance to Bhutanese people as well as to Buddhism world.
Lunch will be served at Taktshang Café. On our way back, we will visit to Drukgyel Dzong, which is in ruin now. This is dzong is known as ‘dzong of victory’ and then Kyichu Monastery, it is one of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo (the 33rd Tibetan king, who is also the manifestation of avoloketeshivara, commonly known to Bhutanese as Chenrize). Evening drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Dinner and over night stay at hotel Thimphu. Hotel Migmar or similar standard.
Day 03. Thimphu Stay
Sightseeing in Thimphu, visit to Memorial Chhorten, built in 1974 in the memory of third king late Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and the temple inside gives good examples of tantric Buddhist and its philosophy. Mothithang minizoo to see the National Animal of Bhutan (Takin), Zulikha Nunnery, the Thangtong Dewachen nunnery was founded in 1976 by Rikey Jadrel and today it houses the sixty nuns engaged in Buddhist study and practices. Folk Heritage Museum, this Folk Heritage Museum is a showcase, the 19-century farmhouse and the living style of the Bhutanese family. Lunch will be served at hotel Thimphu.
After lunch we will visit to Buddha Point, to visit and prayer in front of tallest Bhudda in the world. Then we will do a hike Kuenselphodrang to Depsi This trail was constructed by Nature Recreation and Ecotourism Division (NRED) of the agriculture ministry, as a biking trail in the capital Thimphu. We can also use this trail as hiking/biking to Depsi as an optional tour in the capital Thimphu. First we will drive to Buddha Point to pray and visit the tallest Buddha statue in the world.
We will start the hiking from Buddha statue and then ends at Depsi. The hiking is more or less very easy and plain walk through the forest of Pine, Rhododendron and Oak trees. The hike will take about 1-hour 30 mins. We can see Thimphu city, Thimphu River (Wangchhu) and other adjacent towns through this hike. We can also take some fluttering prayer flags (Lungta) and hang them between two to three trees that will bring fortune, happiness and good health to every one in this world including your enemy. Lungta – Prayer Flag, represents Peace, Compassion, strength and Wisdom.
You will really enjoy and will have amazing experiences hiking this trail. Then Authentic Bhutanese handicrafts. Evening we will stroll around Thimphu town. Dinner and over night stay at hotel Thimphu. Migmar Hotel or similar standard.
Day 04. Thimphu – Wangdi Phodrang/Punakha
After having breakfast, we will drive to Wangdi/Punakha, over Dochula, 3150m above the sea level. While reaching at Dochula, if the weather is clear you can see the Himalayan Mountains of Bhutan including the highest mountain of Bhutan, the Gankar Puensum (7554m), which is the unclimbed mountain in the world.
The drive will take around 3hours and 30minutes and lunch will be serving on the way to Wangdi Phodrang. On reaching at Lobesa, hike to Chimme Lhakhang, which was founded in 15th century by Devin madman Drukpa Kuenley. The hike will take around 1hour and 30minutes for too and forth.
Then, we will continue our journey to Punakha, on reaching at Punakha, visit to Punakha Dzong, the seat of the administrative system and the Central Monastic Body, including the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). Evening at leisure, dinner and overnight stay at Paro Hotel
Day 05. Wangdi Phodrang/Punakha – Bumthang
After having breakfast, we will drive to Bumthang over Pelela(3420m) and Yotongla(3425m) above the sea level and passes through Trongsa valley. Trongsa is a town and capital of Trongsa District in central Bhutan. The name means “new village” in Dzongkha. The drive will take around 9hours to reach at Bumthang. Lunch will be on the way to Bumthang. On reaching at Trongsa, visit to Trongsa Ta-Dzong, the national museum of Bhutan, which means “watchtower”, built by Choeje Minjur Tenpa, the first governor of Trongsa, in the year 1652.
The tower stood guard over the Trongsa Dzong to protect the main stronghold of the town from any external threats. The museum was opened in 2008, in celebration of three auspicious occasions: enthronement of the fifth King, recognition of 100 years of Monarchy and introduction of democracy in the country.
The museum showcases some of the rare and priceless artifacts belonging to the monarchy. Then we will continue our drive to Bumthang and on reaching at Chumey, visit to Chumey Yathra factory, the woolen cloth production in Bhutan. Again we will continue our drive to Bumthang through Korela Pass 3280m, above the sea level. Dinner and overnight stay at Bumthang Hotel
Day 06. Bumthang Halt
Today, morning drive to Burning Lake (Membar Tsho), which was founded by great treasure Pema Lingpa in 15th century. The drive will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes for too and forth. On reaching back, visit to Jakar Dzong, the administrative and religious site of Bumthang district. The Jakar Dzong or the “Castle of the White Bird” dominates the Chamkhar valley and overlooks the town. Constructed in 1549, by the Tibetan Lam Nagi Wangchuk, the Dzong played an important role as the fortress of defense of the whole eastern Dzongkhags.
Lunch will be one of the restaurants in Bumthang. After lunch, visit to Tamshing Monastery, built in 15th century by a great treasure Pema Lingpa and it is the most important Nyingmapa temple in central part of the Bhutan, Kurjey Temple, the place founded by Guru Rinpochhe in 8th century and it consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rack face where Guru meditated in the 8th century. Second temple is built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru’s body and is therefore considered the most holy.
The third temple was built in 1990s by Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by a 108 chorten wall then visit to Jambay Lhakhang,this monastery was built in the 7th century by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region, therefore this is the oldest temple in Bhutan. Then we will visit to Bhutanese Farm house for dinner and hot-stone bath. Over night stay at be also arranged at Bhutanese farmhouse.
Day 07. Jakar – Ngang Lhakhang (Trek Starts)
Today’s trek route will take us around Chamkhar Chhu, a river rich in trout. After passing Thangbi Lhakhang, a temple built by the first Karma Shamar in 13th century we will enter Ngang Yul or ‘Swan Land” named for the swans that were once common in this part of the valley. Near the center of this area we will find Ngang Lhakhang, the “Swan Temple”. The Ngang Lhakhang was built by, Lama Namkha Samdrup in the spot where his arrow landed. The design of the lhakhang inspired by a vision he had. Here we will meet our trekking staff. Dinner and overnight stay at camp.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 2800m Distance: 20km. Time: 6-7hrs.
Day 08. Ngang Lhakhang – Ugyenchholing
We will begin with a gradual climb to Phephe La pass (3,353m). Follow the trail until the pass takes us through a picturesque forested region. It is recommended that we allow for stops along the way to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. We will stop for the night at Ogyen Choling Manor. This manor houses one of the most interesting museums of Bhutan and visitors will gain a better understanding of the lives of the landed gentry in traditional Bhutanese society.
Camp altitude 2,850 m.
Day 09. Ugyen Choling – Phokphey
Today’s walk is through bamboos, hemlock and finally up to an alpine forest. The camp is in a meadow at the head of the valley.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 3680m. Distance: 17 km. Ascent: 920m. Descent: – Time: 5-6 hours.
Day 10. Phokphey – Pemi
Today about three hours of climb, we will reach to Rodong La pass (4,160m). From the pass we, then continue downhill through a gorge, overlooking scenic mountain valleys covered in lush pine forests. The region is rich in folklore concerning spirits and yetis. Near the camp we can see a ruined stone building that once acted as a grain storehouse during the reigns of the first and second king.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 2950m. Distance: 20 km. Ascent: 480m. Descent: 1160m. Time: 6-7 hrs.
Day 11. Pemi – Khaine Lakhang
This trail winds through the villages of Ungaar, Bulay, Kulaypang and Gomda before bringing you to Drula village and Khaine Lhakhang. One of the oldest temples in the country, it was built in the mid 7th century by the King Songtshen Gampo of Tibet to subdue demons.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 2010m. Distance: 21km. Ascent: 350m. Descent: 1340m. Time: 7-8hrs.
Day 12. Khaine Lakhang – Tangmachu
From the camp, the trail goes down to a stream and back up to a basic health unit and a community school in Gorsam. Further on, we wil pass a Tibetan-style Umling Mani, built by a lama from Tibet, and a chorten on Zerim La (1,940m). Before reaching the next pass, Tage La (1,760m) we will see Menjabi, a beautiful Bhutanese village with large white houses. The campsite for the night is located South-east of Tage La near Tangmachu High School. Another possibility is to organize transport and drive to Lhuentse, the capital of Lhuentse district. Lhuntese Dzong is considered to be one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 1720m. Distance: 18km. Ascent: 520m. Descent: 810m. Time: 6-7 hours.
Day 13. Tangmachu – Menji
After arriving at Kuri Zampa the trek begins to gradually climb up through paddy fields and villages before bringing you to Chusa.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 1830m. Distance: 16 km. Ascent: 690m. Descent: 620m. Time: 4-5hrs.
Day 14. Menji – Pemi
Today’s trek has you continue uphill through thick forests overlooking spectacular mountains. The camp is located in a forested area at an altitude of 2,400m.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 2450m. Distance: 20km. Ascent: 620m. Descent: – Time: 5-6hrs.
Day 15. Pemi – Taupang
After climbing up to Dongla you will descend through thick evergreen forests until you reach the campsite for the night.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 2450m. Distance: 21km. Ascent: 1450m. Descent: 1450m. Time: 7-8hrs.
Day 16. Taupang – Trashi Yangtse
Today is the longest day of the trek. It is a gradual descent to Trashi Yangtse. As you descend the chirpine and hardwood forests are slowly replaced by oak trees. The final camp of the trek is located in a sub-tropical forested region.
Accommodation: Camping Altitude: – Distance: 24 km. Ascent: – Descent: 720m. Time: : 8-9 hrs.
Day 17. Trashi Yangsthi – Trashigang
After the breakfast, we will do sightseeing the Trashi Yangtshi like visit to Chhorten Kora and Trashi Yangtshi old dzong. Then drive to Trashigang and visit to Gomphu Kora Lhakhang. Lunch will be served at Trashiangang. After lunch we will drive to Rangjung and visit Rangjung Osel Chholing Monastery and Kardung Anim Dratshang. Evening at Lesiure. Dinner and over night stay at Trashigang Hotel. Dejung Hotel or similar standard.
Day 18. Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar
After and breakfast, drive to Samdrup Jongkhar. At Kanglung, visit to Kanglung Monastery and at Khaling, we will visit to Khaling Handloom (weaving center). Then continue our journey to Samdrup Jongkhar. Lunch will be served at local restaurant on the way or we will take picnic lunch. On reaching Samdrup Jongkhar, our guide and driver will complete the Immigration formalities for your tomorrow’s departure to Guwahati International Airport. In the evening, our guide and driver will introduce you to the Indian driver who will take you to Guwahati tomorrow. Your Bhutanese guide and driver will bid you farewell today at dinnertime, as they will leave to Thimphu next day very early in the Morning.
Day 19. Samdrup Jogkhar – Guwahati Airport (India)
You will have breakfast in the hotel and your Indian driver with car will pick you up from the hotel and will transfer to Guwahati International Airport. The drive is about 2hrs 30mins. We wish you a very safe and comfortable journey. We look forward to see you again in Bhutan.
Thank you and Tashi Delek
This is a sample itinerary, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, tour conditions, group options and the physical condition of participants, may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on tour. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of our guests, safety, comfort and general well being.
Start planning your tailor-made Dream Holiday to Bhutan – The Land of happiness!
In order to experience the best and rewarding fulfillment clients must plan in advance the different logistics that you have in your minds before actually venturing into the world of trips. You might have wishes and hopes for which you need to plan.
The following information will help you to plan your dream trip to Bhutan.
1. When and how to visit Bhutan?
Choose your traveling date like Arrival/Departure date. You also need to choose entry/depart Bhutan via AIR or LAND.
By Air: Druk Air, the national carriers is the only service operator in the kingdom and operates several flights per week from Bangkok (Thailand), Delhi & Kolkata (India) and Kathmandu (Nepal) to Paro (Bhutan). The Paro International Airport is located about an hour and a half drive from Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
Paro airport is daylight restricted, and the flights are totally dependent on the weather. As a result, sometimes flights are delayed. It is therefore a good idea to keep at least 24 hours of transit time for connecting flights out of Paro. You might also want to consider traveling on a non-restricted ticket so that if you miss a connecting flight, you can be rerouted or seated on the first available carrier.
Sometimes flights into Paro are disrupted because of unfavorable weather conditions. If this occurs, the flight will stop for the night at the transit airport. To be prepared, you may want to carry your essential personal items in your carry-on luggage.
By Land: Phuentsholing, a Bhutanese town in the southwest has road access to India. It is located about 170 km from the Indian domestic airport at Bagdogra, West Bengal. Phuentsholing is about 172 km from Thimphu the capital city of Bhutan and is about 6hours drive distance. And S/
2. What are your itineraries?
All the tours can be customized and extended as per our valued client’s requirements. There are sample itineraries for your kind reference and it will give you some general idea of the likely trip scheduled.
Complete the tour request form and submit it to us. Send us correct name list. We will send you the flight reservation status via email.
After confirming your reservation, we need the scanned copy of member’s passport.
Please remit us full payments and send us the copy of remittance paper via email. Visa will not be accepted without full payment.
We will send you the flight ticket copy and Visa Clearance Copy prior to your departure to Bhutan via email. You need to print out and carry along with you.
Start packing and looking forward to have a memorable trip in the LandThunder Dragon, DrukYul.
Hot stone bath (Dhotsho) is a traditional bath of Bhutan, where a tradition of heating up stones and then soaking in the water that is in turn heated by the stones. This is also a curative method and is used throughout the country We Bhutanese belief that this bath has so much of medicinal benefits. Some diseases are curable-like joint pains, hypertension, stomach disorder, arthritis and many other minor diseases. Especially for the old age, where we have lots of body pains, joints pains helps a lot by this Hot Stone Bath (Dhotsho).
I think, the minerals in the rocks have certain chemicals, which can cure certain disease of our body. Hot stone bath has no side effects. It is in its pure natural form. We can organize the hot stone bath during your stay in Bhutan.
The Bhutanese textiles are rich, vibrant, and colorful and are a complex art form as well as an integral part of the Bhutanese culture. This Bhutan weaving experiences will give you an insight about the rich textiles in Bhutan. You can sit one of the handlooms of Bhutan and weave your self practically. We promise that you will really enjoy this with great satisfaction in your life.
We will also see or learn the natural coloring and dyeing. You can bring your own materials like handkerchief to dye and color. So visit Bhutan and experience it practically by yourself.
Folk Performing Arts & Music in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
We have Cultural Program Performing groups, which they will perform like Traditional folk songs, dances and keeps original tunes and dances alive. Moreover, new choreography for some traditional and regional songs is sometimes developed.
The troupe also performs mask dances that have historical and spiritual significance.
Tiger’s Nest is most visited spot in Bhutan and it is much awaited by every tourist who visits Bhutan to climb to Tiger’s Nest.
It takes about 2 hrs 30mins up steep climb through the forest of pine, oak and Rhododendron. However you can ride the horse and climb till the Taktshang cafeteria.
The above activities can be incorporated easily into your travel itinerary. However some activities need to pay some additional fees. So let us know which activities you would like to experiences so that we will include in your invoice.
Our company will provide the Trekking Equipment like Tents (Sleeping, Dinning, Toilet, Shower Tents), Mattress, Hot-Water bag, Cooking Utensils, Sleeping Bags. But we advise our clients to bring their own sleeping bags, if they can. However our guests have to bring some trekking gears by themselves. Therefore, everything mentioned below on the list are useful, and most of the things are important on trek.
Equipment for all the trekkers
Footwear
camp shoes or thongs
socks – polypropylene
Clothing
jumper or pile jacket
hiking shorts (men) or skirt (opt)
waterproof jacket, poncho or umbrella
hiking pants
T- shirts or blouses
underwear, sun hat
swimwear (opt.)
insulated paints
nylon wind breaker
nylon wind pants
long underwear
woolen hat
gloves
long gaiters
Above 4000 m.
socks, wool, to wear with boots
socks, light cotton, for under wool socks
Photography Equipments
( Optional )
lenses cleaning equipments
film
compass
thermometer
binoculars
books for reading while waiting for plane
Other Equipments
sleeping bag
water bottle
torch
Miscellaneous Items
toilet paper and cigarette lighter
small knife
sun block
towel
laundry soap
medical and frist aid kit
pre-moistened towelettes
sewing kit
sunglasses
sun block for lips
Speak to a specialist
Email: info@authenticbhutantours.com
Cell: 00975-17343434
Get inspired by the trip ideas on our website and in our brochures. Then speak to us for first-hand expert advice and if you’re ready, start planning your trip in detail.
