Samtengang Winter Trek

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today you will have light sightseeing and overnight hotel in Paro.

Today you will visit Ta-Dzong (Watch Tower), the national museum of the Country. The shift in role from defensive to that of a museum having varied collections of ancient armour, antique, thangka painting and natural in itself represent the transition the country had undergone. Later, visit Rinpung Dzong, just below the museum. The Dzong houses the district administration office and district monk body. In the afternoon, drive to Drukgyal Dzong, the fort of victorious Bhutan built in 1649 after the victory over Tibetan Invasion. On the way back, visit traditional Bhutanese farm houses. Then, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest in the country built in 7th century by Tibetan Buddhist King, Songtsen Gampo. Even, you can stroll freely in the town. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, drive for 01 hour to reach Thimphu ,along the banks of Pachhu and Wangchhu. In the afternoon visit Tashichhodzong, the custodian of Throne Room, seat of the government and the chief abbot of the Central Monastic Body. Visit Memorial Chorten built in memory of Third King of Bhutan. Tour the Handicrafts Emporium where traditional crafts are displayed. Just below the town, you may also catch a game of archery in progress at the Changlinmethang ground. Evening, you can take leisurely walk in the town. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha with a stop at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir and hemlock. On the way, you will stop at Metshina Village and hike through rice paddies up to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. This temple is dedicated to the great Yogi in the 14th century known as Drukpa Kuenley, or the “Divine Madman,” who is believed to bless women who seek fertility. You will arrive at Punakha after traversing through rice field and along the bank of Punakha River. Overnight hotel in Punakha.

Drive until Punakha,the trekking starts with a gradual climb through chirpine forests. On the way, visit Dompala, a beautiful village alongside the trail.

Covering about 14km in 5to 6 hours, today’s trail takes you through rhododendron and oak forests. En route, you will pass by Chime Lhakhang, the fertility temple. Overnight in camp!

The trekking takes about 5 hours, 650 m ascent, 270 m descent, camp altitude 1,830 m. You will walk downhill until you cross Pe Chhu before climbing again through the village of Sha on your way to Samtengang. Near the school in Samtengang you will see a small lake and your campsite is right next to it.

The trail will lead you up to road head. Drive till Wangdue Phodrang and you will have lunch at the Guest House,way back to Thimphu visit Druk Wangyel monastery at Dochula Pass, the only of its kind in the country with elaborate paintings depicting the lineage of Wangchuck Monarch’s and their contributions. Continue drive to Thimphu and check into hotel in Thimphu.

Visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fort in the country,which was built in the year 1629. Make a trip to Wood Craft and Painting School where traditional art and crafts are still kept alive. After lunch, visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine and the Traditional Paper Factory. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.

Today is your last morning in this memorable country of Bhutan. We will have breakfast and proceed to check in for your flight.