This is 10 days Bhutan tour program combined with 3 days Gangtey Trek in Phobjikha. Although the trek is possible throughout the winter, the best time for the Gangtey Trek is between March-May and September-November. It is a short and relatively easy trek with several beautiful villages and monasteries en route. The trail winds through forests of juniper, bamboo, magnolia, rhododendrons and over small streams of cold, clear mountain water. This trek is an excellent choice for those visitors not accustomed to trekking in the mountains as it offers beautiful views of the country with mostly gentle, forested slopes.
Brief overview of daily activities
Fly on the wings of the Dragon to Bhutan, on arrival in Paro International Airport, complete the immigration formalities. Visit Tashichho Dzong: Houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and government secretariat buildings, beautiful arts and crafts, built in 17th century.
Start the most scenic drive to Punakha from Thimphu over dochula pass which takes about two hours. After the break at Dochula, the road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan. Visit Buddha viewpoint,Memorial Chorten and Dochula pass 3150m
The road to Phobjikha passes through old town of Wangdue taking us through the black mountain region into Gangtey. The drive also passes through some of the most beautiful forests, water fall, hills, river, villages and Pelela pass before stepping into Phobjikha. Visit Khamsum Yulley to Punakha Dzong old route hike,Punakha Dzong and Enjoy the walks on the suspension bridge
The valley of black necked cranes and rhododendron is often referred as Asian Switzerland. The natural beauty of the Phobjikha, beautiful home stays and nature adds more value to experience the living style, food habit and culture of the Bhutanese people. Enjoy Gangtey Nature Trail,Crane center and Farmhouse visit with dinner with locals
Start of the Gangtey trek. The trail winds up on a slow climb through meadows and fields and then ascends the Tselela pass (3,400m). From the pass, the trail descends gradually for some time through forests of juniper, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendrons until our camp on the outskirts of Gogona village.
The trail winds up gently above Gogona village, climbing into a forest of fir, oak, spruce, rhododendron, cypress, and juniper. A long and gradual climb leads to Shobjula pass (3,400m). Later the path leads down to a wide valley of Khotokha, a summer place of people of Sha region of Wangduephodrang district.
A short climb takes you to the Tashila pass at 2800m. From the pass, it is all the way downhill, through dense rhododendrons, magnolias, ferns, and dwarf bamboo.
As we proceed to Paro, we will retrace the journey crossing over Dochula, up until Chuzom and further to Paro. On the way visit to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility.
This picturesque region in the kingdom is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley. Day visit to Tiger Nest, Kyichu Lhakhang and Hot stone bath with dinner at the farmhouse.
Departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan
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