Trekking: The Royal Trek

Follow the path of the First Kings of Bhutan
October 12-28, 2003
Cost: $4200

A traditional reverence for the land and its well-being has preserved the natural environment of Bhutan virtually intact. Trekking allows visitors to experience the power and beauty of the mountains as they walk thru wild, sparsely populated regions and explore the heart of the country. As the trails climb up and down thru the forest-covered landscape, trekkers pass thru a variety of biological zones and can often see many species of wildlife
This itinerary includes visits to numerous temples and monasteries, a day of rafting, and a unique opportunity to trek to both the summer and winter palaces of the first kings of Bhutan.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paro; drive to Thimphu
Day 2: Explore Thimphu
Day 3: Drive over Do Chhu La Pass (12,000 ft) to Po Chhu River; camp
Day 4: Raft down Po and Mo Chhu Rivvers. (Class III); drive to Wangdi Phodrang.
Day 5: Drive to Mangde Chhu Valley via Pele La Pass (13,000 ft). and on to Bumthang
Day 6: Tour Bumthang. Visit temple built in 659.
Day 7: Trek to Ngang Lhakhang (6 hrs); camp at 15th century monastery
Day 8: Trek to Ugyenchhoeling Palace (7 hrs); camp near 14th century palace
Day 9: Trek to Jakar (3hrs)
Day 10: Drive to Trongsa; begin trek to summer palace.
Day 11: Trek to Linchilling Palace. Ceremonial dances in courtyard of 17th century palace.
Day 12: Drive back to Thimphu.
Day 13: Drive to Paro Valley. Hike to Taktshang, 14th century monastery known as the Tiger’s Lair.
Day 14: Fly out of Paro to Bangkok.