Bumthang is extraordinarily beautiful, even for Bhutan. Its four high valleys are draped with forests that embrace small monasteries, chortens, traditional stone houses, and markets. Elevations on trek stay below 12,000 feet, and each day’s walk is steadfastly unhurried. After arriving in Paro, we zig zag up to the revelatory Dochu La, then descend to Punakha for a nice day’s walkabout and a visit to its sterling dzong. Then we’re off to Bumthang, Bhutan’s most sacred valley, hallowed 1300 years ago by the visits of Padmasambhava (the great Buddhist master, called Guru Rinpoche, or the Precious Teacher). Our four-day trek takes us through forests and farmlands and over trout streams to remote villages in which the rest of the world’s last couple of centuries are dim and not particularly enticing rumors. Few treks offer such an intimate look into Bhutan’s delicate and charming daily life.

Please note that several of our departures coincide with centuries-old festivals in remote villages where we will be welcomed as honored guests:

February 22 – March 7, 2010 (Punakha Festival)
March 17 – 30, 2010 (Paro Festival)
September 16 – 29, 2010 (Thimphu Festival)
October 19 – Nov 1, 2010 (Jambay Festival)
November 9 – 22, 2010 (King’s Birthday)

Day 1: arrive in Paro • Day 2: explore Paro • Day 3: drive to Punakha • Day 4: drive to Bumthang • Days 5 - 8: on trek • Day 9: drive to the Phobjikha Valley • Day 10: hiking in Phobjikha • Day 11: drive to Thimphu • Day 12: return to Paro • Day 13: explore Paro, hike to Taktsang • Day 14: depart Paro.

Angkor Extension is available for this trip

Laos Extension is available for this trip