Sacred Trans Bhutan Trail (Tbt) Trekking 8 Nights / 9 Days
- Paro
- Haa
- Thimphu
- Punakha
Package Description
Embark on a deeply spiritual journey along Bhutan’s ancient Trans Bhutan Trail, weaving together scenic high-altitude treks, sacred monasteries, alpine passes, and intimate encounters with traditional village life. This immersive adventure travers’s pristine valleys and forested ridgelines before culminating at Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks in Paro.
Tour Facts
- Duration: 8 Nights / 9 Days
- Destinations: Paro, Haa, Thimphu, Punakha
- Altitude Range: 1,350m – 3,988m
- Activity Level: Moderate to Active (treks up to 19 km/day)
Best For: Culturally curious trekkers seeking spiritual depth and Himalayan scenery
Package Highlights
- Cross Chelela Pass (3,988m), Bhutan’s highest motorable road, with sweeping Himalayan views
- Trek extended sections of the ancient Trans Bhutan Trail through forests, yak pastures, and villages
- Visit sacred sites including Kyichu Lhakhang and Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
- Explore Punakha Dzong and walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge
- Discover Thimphu’s cultural landmarks: Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Folk & Textile Museums
- Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the revered Temple of Fertility
- Experience authentic village life and farmhouse hospitality
Daywise Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival Paro – Haa Valley (Approx. 2 hrs drive)
Arrive at Paro International Airport, dramatically set amidst the Himalayas. After immigration, you will be welcomed by the Trekkup Bhutan team and driven via Chelela Pass (3,988m) into the remote and tranquil Haa Valley, one of Bhutan’s least visited regions. On clear days, enjoy views of sacred Mt. Jomolhari (7,314m). Prayer flags flutter across the pass, offering peaceful walking trails and panoramic vistas.
If time permits, visit Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, two revered local temples.
Overnight: Hotel in Haa | Altitude: 2,700m
Day 2
Haa – Paro (Trans Bhutan Trail Trek)
Trek: 17 km | Duration: ~8 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,790m
Begin your first trek on the historic Trans Bhutan Trail, once used by Haa traders bartering dried meat for rice in Paro. The trail follows the Haa River, passing yak pastures, pine and rhododendron forests, and cliff-side monasteries including Bjungneydra Taktsang (Mini Tiger’s Nest).
Reach Kaleyla Pass, where expansive Himalayan views unfold—on clear days revealing Mt. Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherimgang. After a picnic lunch, descend into the Paro Valley through bamboo forests and traditional farming villages.
Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro | Altitude: 2,200m
Day 3
Paro Sightseeing
Explore the fertile Paro Valley, known for its rice fields, heritage sites, and charming town center.
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Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): Bhutan’s most iconic sacred site, dramatically perched 900m above the valley
Optional traditional hot stone bath and farmhouse dinner (additional cost)
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 4
Paro – Tsalunang (Trans Bhutan Trail Trek)
Trek: 14.2 km | Duration: ~6 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,546m
Rejoin the trail heading east from Upper Dopshari, climbing through community forests, villages, and pristine rivers. After lunch at Jelila, take an optional detour to Jela Dzong, associated with Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. The trail then gently descends into the Tsalunang Valley, rich in birdlife.
Overnight: Camp
Day 5
Tsalunang – Thimphu (Trans Bhutan Trail Trek)
Trek: 19.2 km | Duration: ~8 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,934m
Climb steadily through fir and rhododendron forests to Pumola Pass, once a summer grazing ground for Punakha herders. After lunch with sweeping mountain views, descend along open ridges overlooking the Thimphu Valley.
Arrive at Buddha Dordenma, Bhutan’s largest Buddha statue overlooking the capital.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu | Altitude: 2,400m
Day 6
Thimphu Sightseeing
Discover Bhutan’s capital—a unique blend of tradition and modern life.
- Folk Heritage Museum
- National Textile Museum
- Memorial Chorten (drive past)
- Weekend Market
Watch live archery matches at Changlimithang Stadium
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 7
Thimphu – Dochula – Thinleygang – Punakha
Trek: 10.5 km | Duration: ~5 hrs
Drive to Dochula Pass (3,100m) for panoramic Himalayan views and the iconic 108 chortens. Begin a downhill trek along the Divine Madman Trail, following the footsteps of Drukpa Kunley. Visit Thinleygang Lhakhang, then enjoy a traditional farmhouse lunch.
Continue to Punakha, visiting:
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Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress
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Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest in the country
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha | Altitude: 1,350m
Day 8
Punakha – Paro (Approx. 3 hrs drive)
Retrace your journey via Dochula Pass. En route, hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, through charming villages.
In Paro, visit:
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Paro Dzong
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Ta Dzong (National Museum)
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Optional cultural activities: wear Gho/Kira, play archery (complimentary for Trekkup Bhutan guests)
Explore Paro town’s handicraft shops and cafés.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 9
Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for onward departure.
Inclusions
- Bhutan tourist visa & permits
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Licensed guide, trekking crew & porters
- All accommodation (hotels, camps)
- All meals during the trek and sightseeing days
- Trekking equipment (tents, camping gear, dining setup)
- Private transportation throughout the tour
- Entrance fees to monuments & museums
- Safe drinking water during trekking days
Exclusions
- International flights to/from Bhutan
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, tips)
- Optional activities (hot stone bath, spa, upgrades)
- Personal trekking gear & medications
Package Informarion
Best Time to Trek Trans Bhuta Trail (TBT)
- Spring (March–May): Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons, clear views
- Autumn (September–November): Best season overall — dry weather, excellent Himalayan visibility, festivals
- Winter (December–February): Cold at higher passes; suitable for experienced trekkers
- Summer (June–August): Monsoon season; not recommended due to rain and slippery trails
Difficulty & Fitness
- Level: Moderate to Active
- Daily Walking: 5–8 hours (10–19 km)
- Altitude Range: 1,350 m – 3,988 m
- Suitable for fit travelers with prior hiking experience.
Why Trek the Trans Bhutan Trail?
- Walk ancient paths used by monks and traders
- Experience authentic Bhutanese village life
- Visit sacred monasteries and historic sites
- One of the most culturally immersive treks in the Himalayas
Permits for Trans Bhutan Trail Trekking
Trekking Permits
- Formal trekking permits are usually required for trekking in Bhutan outside Paro/Thimphu. The Trans Bhutan Trail traverses’ multiple districts and rural areas (Haa, Paro, Thimphu regions), so trekking paperwork must be handled correctly.
- Permits are arranged by your licensed tour operator; independent trekking is not allowed.
- Trekking paperwork is normally included in your tour package
Trans Bhutan Trail – Essential Packing List
Clothing (Layered)
- Quick-dry trekking shirts & pants
- Warm fleece or insulated jacket
- Waterproof jacket (and rain pants)
- Thermal base layer
- Warm hat & gloves
Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken-in)
- Light shoes/sandals for evenings
Gear
- Daypack (25–35L) with rain cover
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Headlamp/torch
- Reusable water bottle
Sun & Weather
- Sun hat & sunglasses
- Sunscreen & lip balm
Personal Items
- Personal medications & basic first aid
- Toiletries & hand sanitizer
- Power bank & travel adaptor
Optional
- Camera/binoculars
- Swimsuit (hot stone bath)
- Small prayer flags (lungdhar)
Luggage Note:
Soft duffel bags only for trekking sections; hard suitcases not recommended.
Meals During Trans Bhutan Trail Trekking
- Breakfast: Served at hotels or camps before trekking; hearty and warm to prepare for the day
- Lunch: Picnic lunches on the trail, freshly prepared by the trekking crew, enjoyed at scenic viewpoints or mountain passes
- Dinner: Hot, freshly cooked meals at camps or hotels, featuring Bhutanese and continental dishes
Meal Style:
- Combination of Bhutanese cuisine and familiar international options
- Vegetarian meals available on request
- Tea, coffee, and snacks provided during trekking days
Water:
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Boiled and safe drinking water provided daily (bring a reusable bottle)
Safety During Trans Bhutan Trail Trekking
- Led by licensed, experienced guides
- Gradual altitude gains with proper acclimatization
- First-aid support and trained trekking crew throughout
- Safe drinking water and hygienic meals provided
- Routes adjusted based on weather and trail conditions
Health Considerations During Trans Bhutan Trail Trekking
- Possible mild altitude-related symptoms at higher passes
- Long trekking days require good fitness and stamina
- Minor risks include fatigue, blisters, or muscle soreness
- Guests should inform the guide of any discomfort immediately
- Personal medications should be carried at all times