EXPLORE THE HIDDEN PARADISE KINGDOM OF BHUTAN! through Baeyul Excursions, Thimphu, Bhutan ! Bhutan – the Land of the Thunder Dragon – one of the most sought after travel destinations today. The land of the thunder dragon kingdom is a traveler’s paradise and an environmentalist’s dream. With 72 percent of the country under forest cover, Bhutan’s pristine ecology is home to rare and endangered flora and fauna. This spiritual land is the last bastion of the Vajrayana school of Mahayana Buddhism which provides the essence of a unique identity for the 700,000 people. Bhutan is a unique blend of the old and new. Here is a country that is slowly opening up to the modern world in a fine balance with its ancient traditions. Those fortunate enough to visit Bhutan describe it as a unique, deeply spiritual and mystical experience. This kingdom is an adventure like no other. Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is unusual, unique and exotic. Baeyul Excursions and Trekkings provides personalized service and care. It defies definitions. The world traveler’s found it absorbing, mystical and captivating. So much has been said, written and read but a visit to our exotic destinations still remain a personal experience that will last a lifetime. Its ancient cultures, deep-rooted traditions, absorbing history, natural beauty, wondrous architecture, awe-inspiring palaces and forts add new dimensions to the pleasures of travel and vacation. The sights, both natural and man-made are beautiful and unforgettable. Baeyul Excursions and Trekking has been in the tour and travel business for more than two decades. Our mission is to continually strive for excellence by offering the best value and service to our clients. We have to thank our many clients for the support they have given us over the years, and our success is the direct result of their repeat business and referrals. We have extensive experience in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan and specialize in extraordinary adventure, discover the majestic beauty and the rich cultures of Bhutan through us. We offer expanded packages and special customized Festival and cultural Tours. Each of our tour packages is designed with great degree of flexibility to meet the budget and expectations of individuals or groups. Our Treks are fully equipped with the best of gears with the support of the most experienced tour leaders and crew. We carry our own supplies and provisions to ensure quality food and comfortable accommodations that meet our high standards. Our local Tour Guides are among the best and the most experienced in culture, religion, history and geography of the region. They will guide you through unique places of cultural and historic significance and share with you interesting folklores, legends, myths and superstitions of the local people. We will make all of your arrangements, from choosing the right trip including air travel and trip extensions, until you depart from Bhutan. Baeyul Excursions and Trekkings provides many different kinds of Itineraries for different Tours, but it doesn’t mean that you have to strictly follow it so feel free to email us with your suggestions, Tour Itineraries plays a very important role in the Guided Tour. Baeyul Excursions and trekking strongly believes in giving a Personalized memorable Tour to its Guests so changes can be made any time. Please do email us and let us know how you want the Tour Itinerary so that we will let you know the possibilities. Baeyul Excursions and trekking is specialized in Culture tour, Trekking, Adventures like Fishing, Mountain Biking, Motor cycling, Rafting and kayaking, Rock Climbing, Tshechu or Festival tour, Nature tour like Bird watching, Flora and Fauna, Etc. OFFICIAL TARIFF SET BY THE GOVERNMENT OF BHUTAN. Tariff for all services related to tourism in Bhutan are fixed by the Government of Bhutan which are consolidated into a package and charged on per night basis. The package comes with all meals, private transportation regardless of destination/sightseeing spots, government royalty, all necessary taxes, agents handling charge and all other necessary logistic arrangement. Minimum Daily Package You are entitled to the following services as part of the minimum daily tariff: • A minimum of 3 star accommodation on twin sharing basis (4 & 5 star may require an additional premium). • All meals • A licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the extent of your stay • All internal transport (excluding internal flights) • Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours It also includes: • All internal taxes and charges • A sustainable tourism Royalty of $ 65.00. This Royalty goes towards free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure. The minimum daily package for tourists traveling in a group of 3 persons or more is as follows: USD $ 200 per person per night for the months of January, February, June, July, August, and December. USD $ 250 per person per night for the months of March, April, May, September, October, and November. Surcharges Tourists travelling in a group of two (2) persons or less shall be subject to a surcharge, in addition to the minimum daily package rates. These are as follows: Single individual - US$ 40.00 per person per night Group of 2 persons only - US$ 30.00 per person per night These rates are applicable per tourist per night halt in Bhutan. On the day of departure, the ‘local agents’ host obligation shall be limited to providing breakfast only and any extra requirements shall be payable on usage basis. Single Room Supplements The Government set package rates are valid for accommodation on twin sharing basis and incase of using single rooms, following supplements will be applicable: For, Festival season = US$ 50.00 per single room per night For, other season = US$ 40.00 per single room per night. Visa Fee Visa fee of US $ 40.00 per person is payable extra and it can be paid along with tour payment. Discount on Tourist Tariff A discount of 50% on daily rates is available for one person in a group of 11 to 15 persons and 100% discount to one person for every 15 full paying persons. Discounts A) There shall be no charge for CHILDREN up to the age of 5 years. However, those between the ages of 6-12 years accompanied by elders/ guardians shall be given 50% discount on daily rates and 100% discount on Royalty. This Royalty is currently set at $ 65.00 per day. B) Full time STUDENTS below the age of 25 years, holding valid identity cards from their academic institutions, shall also be given a 25% discount on the Royalty. C) A discount of 50% on minimum daily package shall be given to one person in a group of 11 people. 100% discount shall be given to one member in a group exceeding 16 persons. D) A 50% discount on Royalty shall be provided after the 8th night and 100% discount on Royalty shall be provided after the 14th night. E) Visitors availing discounts under Sections A & B shall not be eligible for discount under D Airfare or Druk Air Flight charges extra. Sample itinerary for culture tours. Bhutan 6 days 5 nights. Day 01: Arrive Paro by Druk Air. Druk Air flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular of all mountain flights. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills, each flight is a mesmerizing feat and offers exciting descent into the Kingdom. On arrival at the airport you shall be received by our representative. Visit the Paro National Museum which houses collection of art and art facts from all over Bhutan. The Museum is housed in the ancient watch tower of Paro Dzong. Later visit the Paro Dzong, ancient castle fortress built in 1645 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and it houses the Paro monastic body and office of Paro district civil authority. Drive to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan. Visit the Memorial chorten built in memory of the late third king of Bhutan in the year 1974, 15th century Changankha Monastery, Buddha at the kuenselphodrang, Takins(national animal of Bhutan) zoo and Thimphu view point.Overnight at hotel Day 02: Thimphu to Punakha. Morning drive to Punakha valley ( 3 hrs. drive / 73 kms). The drive will take you via the Dochula pass (3150 meters). A wide range of the east Himalayan ranges are visible from the pass on a clear day. On the pass, you will see the 108 Druk Wangyel Stupa built by one of the queen mothers of Bhutan. First visit the Punakha Dzong. It is the second dzong built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1637, on a strategic junction at the confluence of Pho Chhu (Male river) and Mo Chhu river (Female river). The Dzong has played a significant role in the history of Bhutan. It served as the seat of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal’s government, several foreign delegations were received here in 18th and 19th century, the election and coronation of the first King was observed in 1907 and the Third King convened the first National Assembly in the Dzong. The central monastic body continues to reside here in winter. The embalmed bodies of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Terton Pema Lingpa are housed on the top floor of the main tower. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by the present King from the latest fire in 1987. The Dzong is open for visitors during Punakha festival and in summer months when the central monastic body moves to Thimphu. Later take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang passing through village houses and rice fields. Chimi Lhakhang is a special monastery for sterile women, a place of worship for fertility.Overnight at hotel Day 03 : Punakha to Thimphu. After breakfast drive to Thimphu valley. Visit Trashichhoedzong, the beautiful medieval fortress/monastery which houses most of the Governments office and Kings Throne room It is also the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. Join the gathering to witness the Thimphu Drupchen conducted once a year only. You will spend some time visiting this religious festival. You will see Bhutanese from all walks of life come to be blessed. The locals will wear their finest clothing and jewelry and you will get a chance to see their culture in action. The Drupchen is a sacred mask dance dedicated to appeasing the protecting deity of Bhutan, Palden Lhamo. The dance ceremony was performed in between 1705 and 1709 by Kuenga Gyaltshen, the son of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After lunch visit Handicrafts Emporium which displays wide assortment of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products. Visit the Folk and Heritage Museum, Traditional School of Arts and Craft, Handicraft Emporium, Bhutan post, the Farmers Market: You will have a change to explore and shop in the weekend market where the locals come to sell their produce and the Hand-made Paper factory.Overnight at hotel Day 04: Thimphu to Paro. After breakfast take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutanese monasteries. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery for three months hence it is called Tigers Nest. The excursion to monastery takes about 5 hours for round trip. On the drive back, stop at the elegant Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in the Kingdom, dating back to 7th century. The other is Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang. These are the two surviving temples in Bhutan commissioned by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet who took upon himself to build 108 temples in Tibet and other Himalayan regions in one day. The complex consists of three temples with latest one built in 1968 by H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan. The older temple contains a replica of the Buddha Maitreya of Jokhang in Lhasa and the new one houses a giant statue of Guru Rimpoche. Overnight at the hotel Day 05: Depart Paro. After breakfast drive to the Paro airport for outward journey leaving the Land of Thunder Dragon Kingdom but taking the unforgettable memories of the land. Bhutan 8 Days 7 nights. Day 01: Arrive Paro, Paro – Thimphu The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas, offering dazzling scenic views of some of world’s highest glacial peaks. As you enter Paro valley, you will sweep past forested hills with the silvery Pa Chu (Paro river) meandering down the valley below. Paro Dzong (fortress) and Ta Dzong (watchtower) on the hills above the town will be a fine sight. Our representative will meet you at Paro airport, and after completion of arrival formalities you will be transferred to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, an exciting blend of tradition and modernity. Dinner and overnight at your hotel in Thimphu. Day 02: Thimphu Today’s full day of sightseeing in Thimphu valley includes visits to: National Library, which holds a vast collection of Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion; Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School) where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan; National Institute of Traditional Medicine (outside only), where the medicinal herbs abundant in the kingdom are compounded and dispensed, and traditional medical practitioners are trained; National Memorial Chorten: The building of this landmark was envisaged by the third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, as a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”) and a monument to world peace. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy; Tashichhodzong: This impressive fortress/monastery houses the secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty, the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and central monk body; Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums: These museums, both of which opened in 2001, provide fascinating insights into Bhutanese material culture and way of life. Handicrafts Emporium: This government-run enterprise displays a wide range of beautifully hand-woven textiles and craft products. It also carries a small collection of books on Bhutan, Buddhism and Himalayan culture. Dinner and overnight at your hotel in Thimphu. Day 03: Thimphu – Trongsa After early breakfast, drive up to Dochu-la pass (3,088m/10,130ft) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chortens, mani walls, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the north east will be revealed in all their glory. On a clear day, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m) a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m. Then continue onwards, reaching Wangduephodrang town in time for lunch. From here, it is a long, winding descent into the Wangduephodrang valley, which is about 1,700m below the pass. Take lunch at Wangduephodrang town, then continue on to Trongsa across Pele-la pass (3,300m/10,830ft), the traditional boundary between east and west. The pass is marked by a large white Chorten and prayer flags. There is an abrupt change in vegetation at this point, with mountain forest replaced by high altitude dwarf bamboo. Stop en route at Chendebji Chorten, patterned on Kathmandu’s Swayambhunath Stupa, with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. It was built in the 18th century by Lama Shida from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was subdued at this spot. Arrive at Trongsa late afternoon and check in at the lodge for the night. Day 04: Trongsa – Bumthang After breakfast, walk by Trongsa Dzong (built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1647) and climb up a steep path to visit the Ta Dzong (watchtower), dedicated to the epic hero, King Gesar of Ling. Then drive to Bumthang, 68 km. from Trongsa, a journey of about 3 hours, over the Yutong-la pass (3,400m/11,155ft). The road winds steeply up to the pass, 28 km. from Trongsa, then runs down through coniferous forest into a wide, open, cultivated valley known as the Chumey valley. On arrival in Bumthang, check in at your lodge. After lunch, visit Kurje Lhakhang (where the saint’s body is imprinted on a rock”), Jambey Lhakhang (7th century), Tamshing Monastery(housing some of the oldest wall paintings in Bhutan), and Jakar Dzong (administrative center of the region). Stroll in the village, visit the little handicrafts shop at the entrance to the town, and perhaps take refreshments at a local restaurant. Dinner and overnight at the lodge. Day 05: Bumthang to Punakha After breakfast, explore further the fascinating valley of Bumthang. Then proceed to Punakha, stopping along the way at Trongsa for lunch, which will be served in a local restaurant famous for its cuisine. Visit Wangduephodrang Dzong and town en route to Punakha, which we will reach late afternoon. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Punakha. Day 06: Punakha – Paro Morning visit to Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. Punakha was Bhutan’s capital until 1955, and Punakha Dzong still serves as the winter residence of the central monk body. Bhutan’s first king, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here in 1907. The fortress has withstood damage from fire, earthquake and flood over the centuries. The latest flood, in October, 1994, caused great damage to the fortress but miraculously spared its most holy statue. After lunch, proceed to Paro, en route visiting a traditional Bhutanese farm house, to gain an insight into the lifestyle and culture of the local people. On arrival in Paro, check in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. Day 07: Paro Today’s full day of sightseeing in Paro valley includes morning visits to Ta Dzong, which in the past served as watchtower for Paro Dzong and now houses the National Museum, and Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.After lunch, we drive up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1647 by the Shabdrung to commemorate the Bhutanese victory over the Tibetans in the war of 1644. En route, we also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 08: Depart Paro After early breakfast, drive to the airport for flight to onward destination. Sample Trek itinerary. Druk Path Trek This is a short five day trek, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. Although the route is sparsely inhabited, there are wonderful lakes teeming with fish and the area is famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests, which bloom in May. In the clear weather of late autumn and winter there are great views of the Himalayas. Seasons: This trek is usually possible from late February to June and from September to December. Day 01: Arrive Paro On arrival at Paro airport, you will be met by our representative, and transferred to your Paro hotel. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 02: Paro Drive northwest up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan invaders. Though largely destroyed by fire in 1951, its towering walls are still an imposing sight. On a clear day there is a splendid view of Mt. Jhomolhari from the approach road to Drukgyel Dzong. Visit one of the typical village houses clustered near the Dzong. Then visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan. In the afternoon visit Ta Dzong, once a fortified lookout tower and now the National Museum. Then walk down the hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), “the fortress of the heap of jewels”. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 03: Paro – Jele Dzong 8km, 3 hours Today is a short trekking day. The journey starts with a short climb up to Jele Dzong. The trek trail ascends gradually up to the camp, and if the weather is clear Paro valley can be seen with snow-capped mountains behind. Above the camp is Jele-la pass (3,400m) and Jele Dzong (mostly in ruins). There is also a Lhakhang containing a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. Overnight camp. Day 04: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha 10km, 3-4 hours Begin with a one and a half hour climb and then ascend more gradually upwards. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. You will have fine views of Jhomolhari and other snow capped peaks if the weather is right, and you may hear some monal pheasants calling during the day. You may see yak herders around your campsite. Overnight camp. Day 05: Jangchulakha – Jimilangtsho 11km, 4 hours The trail follows the ridge, and on a clear day the views of the mountains and valley are sensational. You will enjoy a great view of Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Our camp is close to the Jimilangtsho lakes, which are famous for their giant sized trout. Overnight camp. Day 06: Jimilangtsho – Simkota 11km, 4 hours The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and passes by the lake of Janetsho. Today you may come across some yak herders camps and get an idea of how these people live. We camp overnight close to Simkota Lake, and if you are lucky you can catch a lake trout for your dinner. Day 07: Simkota – Phajoding 10km, 4 hours Today begins with a gradual climb, and if the weather permits you will enjoy majestic views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum, and a host of other peaks. The trail slowly descends through juniper trees to a campsite beside a community hall near Phajoding cafeteria. Overnight in cafeteria or camp, depending on weather conditions. Day 08: Phajoding – Thimphu 5km, 3 hours The trek to Thimphu is downhill all the way, passing through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Taking a leisurely pace, you reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. Day 09: Excursion to Punakha/Wangduephodrang After breakfast, full day excursion to the Punakha and Wangdue valleys. The drive from Thimphu crosses Dochu-la pass (3,088m) from which there are the most enchanting mountain views. In Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong situated at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this Dzong has played important role in Bhutan’s history. Then drive to Wangduephodrang, to visit 17th century Wangduephodrang Dzong and the local market. In the evening drive back to Thimphu. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. Day 10: Thimphu – Paro Full day of sightseeing in Thimphu, including visits to the following, as time permits: National Memorial Chorten built as a memorial to Bhutan’s third king (“the father of modern Bhutan”) and as a monument to world peace; Tashichhodzong – the impressive fortress/monastery housing some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body; Handicrafts Emporium a wide assortment of intricately hand-woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at this government-run outlet, and at many smaller handicrafts shops around town; National Library established in the late 1960s primarily to conserve the literary treasures which form a significant part of Bhutan’s cultural heritage, it now holds an extensive collection of Buddhist texts and manuscripts; Institute for Zorig Chusum, more commonly known as the Painting School, where students learn the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan; National Institute of Traditional Medicine the rich herbal medicines made up from plants abundant in the kingdom are dispensed here, and traditional medicine practitioners trained. In the evening drive to Paro. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 11: Depart Paro After early breakfast in the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to onward destination. Jhomolhari Trek 12 Days Starting at Drukgyel Dzong, Paro this trek passes through scattered hamlets and farmland into a deep and richly forested valley, which leads to a high alpine pastureland where yak herders graze their animals. The trek offers a taste of the great variety of Bhutanese landscape. Season: The ideal time for this trek is April to June and September to November. Day 01: Arrive Paro On arrival at Paro airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel after completion of arrival formalities. Evening visit Paro market and town. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 02: Paro Morning visit to Ta Dzong, built in 1651 as a watchtower and in 1968 inaugurated as Bhutans National Museum. The collection includes art, relics, religious thangkha paintings, postage stamps, coins and handicrafts, as well as a small natural history collection. Below Ta Dzong is Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), “the fortress of the heap of jewels, built in 1646, and now housing the offices of the district administration and Paro’s monk body. In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Built by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century, it is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 03: Paro to Shana 17km, 5-6 hours The trek starts from Drukgyel Dzong (2,580m) with a short downhill walk on a wide trail. The trail then climbs gently through well maintained rice terraces and fields of millet. Later on we come to apple orchards and forests. Soon the valley widens, and we reach the army post of Gunitsawa (2,810m). This is the last stop before Tibet. We continue upwards to just beyond Sharma Zampa (2,870m), where there are several good camping places in meadows surrounded by trees. Day 04: Shana to Soi Thangthangkha 20km, 7-8 hours The trail again follows the Pa Chu (Paro river), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. After crossing a bridge to the left bank of the river, we stop for a hot lunch. Then we continue along the river, climbing upwards through rhododendron forests, and crossing the river once more before reaching our campsite (3,750m). Day 05: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang 19km, 7-8 hours The path ascends for a while until we reach the army camp. We then follow the river above the tree line, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Hot lunch is served at a yak herder’s camp. A short walk from here into the valley takes us to our campsite at Jangothang (4,040 m). From here, the views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake are superb. Day 06: Jangothang to Lingshi 18km, 7-8 hours The trail follows the stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right bank. We now start our climb up to the first ridge, enjoying breathtaking views of Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. The trail then takes us across a fairly level valley floor until the climb up to Nyele-la pass (4,700m). We descend gradually from the pass to our campsite at Lingshi (4,000m), enjoying a panoramic view of the mountain peaks and Lingshi Dzong as we walk. Day 07: Lingshi to Shodu 22km, 8-9 hours The Laya-Gasa route leaves the Chomolhari trek route here. Our trail climbs up towards a small white Chorten on a ridge above the camp, then turns south up the deep Mo Chu valley. The trail stays on the west side of this largely treeless valley, climbing steadily a short distance above the Mo Chu. It then crosses the river, and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli-la (4,820m). On a clear day you can see Chomolhari, Gangchenta, Tserimgang and Masagang from this pass. Descend alongside a stream to a rock shelter in the cliff face, and then continue on downstream till reaching Shodu (4,100m), where we will camp in a meadow with a Chorten in it. Day 08: Shodu to Barshong 16km, 6/-7 hours We are now back at the tree line, and our path follows the course of the Thimphu Chu, descending through rhododendron, juniper and mixed alpine forests. There are stunning views of rocky cliff faces and waterfalls along the way. We stop at the riverside for a hot lunch. Then the trail takes us gradually upwards to the ruins of Barshong Dzong (3,600m), near which we camp for the night. Day 09: Barshong to Dolam Kencho 15km, 5-6 hours The trail descends gently through a dense forest of rhododendron, birch and conifers, then drops steeply to meet the Thimphu Chu. The trail runs along the left bank of the river, climbing over ridges and descending into gullies where side streams run down into the river. The final stage of the trail climbs around a cliff face high above the Thimphu Chu, coming out onto pastureland where we camp for the night at 3,600m. Day 10: Dolam Kencho to Dodena and Thimphu 8km, 3 hours The trail winds in and out of side valleys above the Thimphu Chu, making a long ascent through a forest of conifers and high altitude broadleaf species to a pass at 3,510m. The trail then drops steeply down to the river, following it southward to the road head at Dodena (2,600m). Bhutan Wilderness Travels transport meets us here, and we drive to Thimphu. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu. Day 11: Thimphu to Paro Full day of sightseeing in Thimphu valley visiting the following, as time permits: National Memorial Chorten; Tashichhodzong (the fortress of the glorious religion); National Library; Institute for Zorig Chusum (Bhutanese arts and crafts school); National Institute of Traditional Medicine (outside only); Handicrafts Emporium. Evening drive to Paro. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. Day 12: Depart Paro After breakfast, drive to Paro airport for flight to onward destination
Posted on: Tue, 29 Apr 2014 17:15:43 +0000
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