Overview

The Bumthang Cultural Trek in Bhutan is a perfect blend of gentle trekking, cultural immersion, and Himalayan exploration. Over 12 days, this tour takes international travelers through the serene valleys, ancient monasteries, historic fortresses, and traditional villages of Bhutan. With a maximum trekking altitude of 3,360 meters (11,020 ft.), this trek is ideal for travelers seeking moderate hiking, cultural discovery, and breathtaking landscapes without the challenges of high-altitude expeditions.

The trek offers a rare opportunity to witness Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage, explore remote villages, and engage with local communities. From the capital city of Thimphu to the spiritual heart of Bumthang, and the scenic Phobjikha Valley, this journey is a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ideal for first-time trekkers, cultural explorers, and international travelers seeking an authentic Himalayan experience.

Tour Highlights - Bumthang Cultural Trek

Explore the cultural heart of Bhutan in Bumthang Valley, home to ancient monasteries and temples.
Moderate trekking across picturesque valleys and scenic ridges at altitudes below 3,500 meters.
Visit historical Dzongs and temples, including Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, and Trongsa Dzong.
Experience authentic Bhutanese village life, interacting with locals and witnessing traditional architecture.
Discover the Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple) and Punakha Dzong en route to Bumthang.
Wildlife and nature photography opportunities in Phobjikha Valley, home to rare black-necked cranes in winter.
Scenic drives across Bhutan through Dochula Pass, Wangdue Phodrang, and Tsugney Village, offering panoramic Himalayan views.
Comfortable overnight stays in hotels, lodges, and campsites with a mix of modern comfort and local charm.
Ideal for international travelers seeking moderate trekking, cultural exploration, and Himalayan landscapes.

Day 01 :

Kathmandu – Paro - Thimphu

Arrive in Paro, Bhutan, where your Bhutanese guide will greet you. Drive 54 km to Thimphu (2,500m), the capital city of Bhutan. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay at the hotel, preparing for your cultural journey.

Day 02 :

Thimphu - Punakha

After breakfast, drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. En route, visit the Chimi Lhakhang, famously known as the Fertility Temple. Explore Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most majestic fortress-monasteries. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.

Day 03 :

Punakha - Bumthang

Drive towards Bumthang Valley, Bhutan’s spiritual heart. On the way, stop at Wangdue Phodrang, Chendebji Chorten, and Trongsa Ta Dzong, capturing panoramic views of the valleys. Arrive in Bumthang for overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 04 :

Sightseeing in Bumthang

Explore the Bumthang Valley, visiting Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang, key spiritual and historical sites. Learn about Bhutanese Buddhism and local traditions. Overnight at the hotel in Bumthang.

Day 05 :

Toktu Zampa – Ngang Lhakhang

Begin the cultural trek from Toktu Zampa to Ngang Lhakhang (Swan Temple). Hike through scenic forests and traditional villages, enjoying panoramic views of the valley. Camp overnight in a tent, experiencing authentic Bhutanese trekking.

Day 06 :

Ngang Lhakhang – Ugyen Choling

Continue trekking through lush valleys, farmlands, and village trails. Reach Ugyen Choling, a historic mansion and heritage site. Camp overnight and immerse in local cultural experiences.

Day 07 :

Ugyen Choling – Bumthang

Trek down to meet your vehicle, driving back to Jakar, the main town of Bumthang. Overnight at a lodge, preparing for further cultural exploration.

Day 08 :

Bumthang – Trongsa

After breakfast visit some of the places that you had missed on the first day of arrival in Bumthang Valley. Resume your drive to Trongsa, enroute visit, Tsugney Village, Domkhar Dzong. Overnight at hotel.

Day 09 :

Trongsa – Phobjikha

After breakfast, visit Trongsa Ta Dzong, then drive to Phobjikha Valley, home to the Gangtey Monastery and, in winter, the rare black-necked cranes. Explore the valley, camp overnight amid scenic landscapes.

Day 10 :

Phobjikha - Thimphu

Today we will be hiking around the village taking pictures of the beautiful valley, the rare black necked-crane (during winter) and the superb traditional village houses. After Lunch we will resume our journey to the capital city. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11 :

Sightseeing in Thimphu

Visit King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, Dupthop Lhakhang ( Monastery for the nuns), National Library, the painting school, traditional Medicine institute and other places of interest. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 12 :

Thimphu - Paro - Kathmandu

Early morning drive to Paro for your departure flight to Kathmandu. End of the tour, concluding an unforgettable blend of trekking, cultural exploration, and Himalayan adventure.