The Dhur Hotspring Trek 17 Night 18 Days

After breakfast, head to Ramtangka, your base camp for the 5-hour round trip to Tetaktsang Tiger Camp. This path is an ancient path marked by prayer wheels powered by river power. Taktsang Monastery is a typical example of the country's architecture and is a place of great religious importance. The monastery is located on a granite hill 3,000 meters above the valley floor. Taktsang is known as one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in Himalayan Buddhist circles. He is associated with the 8th-century Tantric sage Padmasambhava. In the temple cave, he subdued the evil forces that interfered with the Buddha's teachings. It is said that he came in an angry form riding a tiger mare. After Taktsang, there are ruins of his Dzong, Durgyel, a fortress known as the "Fortress of the Victorious Drukpa", which he built in 1646 as a symbol of Bhutan's victory over the Tibetan invasions of the 17th and 18th centuries. I will visit. On a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Jomolari.                                                                                   

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

After breakfast, we will head to Thimphu, en route visiting Tachogang Lhakhang, founded by bridge builder and Tibetan saint Thanthong Gyalpo (1385-1464). Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel and in the evening visit Buddha Point/Kuensel Phodang, where the largest statue of Lord Buddha is nearing completion.

From there you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Thimphu Valley. We will also visit the memorial chorten built to commemorate Jigme Dorji, the father and third king of modern Bhutan, his Wangchuk, and his 12th-century Changangka his Lhakhang.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

Dochula Pass (3,100 m), from where you will enjoy your first spectacular view of the Eastern Himalayas, consisting of snow-capped peaks ranging from 6,000 m to 7,554 m. It is further reinforced by 108 spectacular stupas (chortens) built around the hill. From the pass, a gentle descent follows rhododendrons, short bamboos, and other trees to reach the subtropical valleys of Punakha and Wangduepodrang. Then we will cross Perera Pass (3,150 meters above sea level) and head towards Trongsa. After arriving in Trongsa, check into your hotel and visit Trongsa Dzong, built in 1648, and Ta Dzong, a former watchtower that is now a museum.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

After breakfast, drive to Jakar (Bumthang), stopping along the way to visit the Yasra factory in Chamy Valley. We will continue to Bumthang and after lunch, we will visit Jakar Dzong, Jampar Lhakhang, and Kurjej Lhakhang and walk around the city.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

We will begin a hike of 18km (approximately 6-7 hours). After breakfast at an altitude of 3,160 m, you will be driven by car to his point where Bumthang will hike just below the famous holy temple, Kuljeilakan. The hiking route takes you briefly along the Chamkar Chu River, following the river flowing from the Duru village. The hiking trail from Bumthang to Gosum is relatively flat through dense spruce, hemlock, cypress, juniper, and maple forests. The path is more or less muddy and gradually climbs until you reach the campsite. We will spend the night at camp.

Overnight at Camping. [B/L/D]

From the river, the trail enters the jungle, hiking through dense forests of spruce, hemlock, cypress, juniper, and maple. The last part of the trail requires a gradual uphill walk to the Lungsum campsite.

Overnight at Camping. [B/L/D]

We follow the same path we took the other day until the final lap, where the vegetation becomes noticeably thinner. The campsite is above the tree line.

Overnight at Camping. [B/L/D]

The most difficult part of this hike, which pushes you to your limits, is the path from Tsochenchen to Juri La, at an altitude of 4,700 m. It leads exclusively uphill. But there is solace in the stunning beauty of the surrounding mountains visible on a clear day. Upon reaching the pass, the trail descends to the lake at an altitude of 4,220 m before climbing to Gok Tong La (4,640 m). You have to climb a steep downhill slope to reach the campsite. On the final section of the route, you might encounter musk deer, herds of blue sheep, and Himalayan black bears.

Overnight at Camping. [B/L/D]

Following a leisurely late breakfast, you're presented with a delightful dilemma for the next chapter of your day. One option invites tranquillity and rejuvenation as you immerse yourself in the warm embrace of a hot spring. Whether nestled in the heart of nature or within a purpose-built facility, the therapeutic waters promise to melt away tension, soothe muscles, and provide a serene escape. On the other hand, the alternative beckons the adventurer within, suggesting a hike through the enchanting surroundings. Equipped with comfortable gear, a stroll through forested trails, mountain paths, or along serene lakesides awaits, promising a connection with nature, a breath of fresh air, and picturesque views. The decision between the soothing soak and the invigorating hike hinges on your mood, the weather, and the desired pace of your day. Whichever path you choose, it's a moment to revel in the simple pleasures of relaxation or exploration, making the most of the scenic backdrop that surrounds you.

Overnight at Camping. [B/L/D]

Today we are retracing the footsteps of day 4, you embark on a journey that promises familiarity and the comfort of known landscapes. The route unfolds like a well-worn story, each landmark and bend in the trail bringing forth memories of the previous day's exploration. As you move forward, you might uncover new nuances, or perhaps rediscover the charm that captivated you on day 4, creating a seamless link between past and present in your expedition.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

We will follow the same route as on the third day.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

From here the trail gradually descends through a dense forest of spruce, hemlock, cypress, juniper, and maple.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

The road continues gradually downhill until it reaches a bridge near the village of Duru, where it reaches the start of the road. After lunch, take a rest at your hotel in Bumthang.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

After breakfast, drive to Wangdu Epodang. The journey takes approximately 7 hours. Lunch will be served at Chendebuji, which has a beautiful stupa similar to Boudhanath in Nepal. At Wangdu Epodang, visit the ruins of a dzong (fortress) that was tragically destroyed by fire in 2012. The 17th-century building played a very important role in Bhutan's history.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

After breakfast, drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan and still the winter residence of the chief priest (Je Khenpo). An example of the grandeur of Bhutanese architecture, Punakha Dzong (fortress) looks from a distance like a giant ship anchored on a body of still water. The Dzong is very historic and important as it houses some of Bhutan's most sacred treasures in the form of religious relics.

On your way to Thimphu, visit the 15th-century Chimi Lhakhang, dedicated to the divine madman Ram Drukpa Kuenley. This monastery is a place of phallic worship and infertile couples from all over the world visit the temple to receive phallic blessings. Have lunch near the monastery and proceed.

Overnight at the hotel. [B/L/D]

The drive from Thimphu to Paro in Bhutan is approximately 55 kilometres and usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on road conditions. The journey offers stunning views of Bhutan's landscapes and is known for its scenic beauty.

Starting from Thimphu, the capital city, you'll likely head westward on the winding mountain roads. The route takes you through picturesque valleys, traditional villages, and lush greenery. Along the way, you might catch sight of the Paro River and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

The road conditions are generally good, but weather conditions can affect travel times, especially during monsoon or winter seasons. Always check for the latest information on road conditions and weather before embarking on the journey.

Overnight at the Hotel. [B/L/D]

The last day morning will be free and near the time of your flight. You will be at the airport within the time to board your flight for the onward trip.