Gangtey Low Altitude Trek

Enjoy a day of sightseeing in Paro, where you will explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of the area. The day is open for various activities and exploration at your own pace.

Travel to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, where you will visit significant landmarks. First, visit the Memorial Chorten, a large stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan, who reigned from 1952 to 1972. Continue to the National Library, home to ancient manuscripts, and the Wood Craft and Painting School, where traditional Bhutanese crafts are preserved. At the Handicrafts Emporium, you can purchase Bhutanese textiles and arts. After lunch, visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan, built in 1629 AD, located just 6 km from Thimphu Town. End the day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Royal Government and the winter residence of the Head Abbot and the monastic school.

Drive to Gangtey, a scenic journey 90 km from Thimphu. On the way, stop at Dochula Pass (26 km, Alt. 3100 m) for tea and snacks while enjoying spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain ranges on clear days. Afterward, visit Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, and see the Punakha Dzong, which stands between two rivers—Phochu and Mochu, named the male and female rivers. The Dzong, built in 1637 AD, houses the District Administration and serves as the winter residence of the State Monastic Body and its Chief Abbot. Overnight in a guesthouse in Gangtey, known for its clean and comfortable accommodations and excellent food. Gangtey is a beautiful valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering a stunning view of the Black Mountain ranges and the Phobjikha valley. The Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hill, is one of the largest Nyingmapa monasteries in Bhutan, surrounded by a village mainly inhabited by the families of lay monks.

Begin the Gangtey Trek, where ponies can be provided for the journey. The trail winds through meadows and fields, with a climb through a mixed forest of juniper, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendron. Reach Tselela Pass (3320 m) and camp overnight at an altitude of 3000 m. The distance covered is 16 km, taking 5-6 hours.

Today, a gentle climb leads to Shobjula Pass (3390 m). The descent from the pass takes you into a wide valley surrounded by stunning mountain ranges. After trekking, camp overnight. The distance covered is 16 km, taking 6-7 hours.

A short ascent will bring you to Tashila Pass (2780 m). Continue walking through an ever-changing landscape into the drainage of the Dangchu River. Overnight camping is planned for this day as well.

Walk from Chuzomsa to the motor road, which takes about 45 minutes. From there, drive to Thimphu for lunch and then continue on to Paro. The distance from Chuzomsa to Paro is 75 km. Overnight in a hotel in Paro.

Drive to Satsam Chorten (10 km from Paro Town) and take a walk to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the "Tiger's Nest." This monastery is perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 400 meters, offering a stunning view of the Paro Valley. Taktsang is one of the most venerated pilgrimage sites in the Himalayan world. According to legend, the monastery was founded by Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century, who is believed to have arrived here on the back of a tigress.

After completing the trek and cultural tour, travel back to the airport in Paro for your departure. Alternatively, you may return to Thimphu or Gangtey for further exploration, depending on your schedule.