Tsaluna Path Trek (16 Days)
The Tsaluna Trek is a moderate, five-day trek also featuring a cultural tour of Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, the central Bumthang Valley. This trek offers beautiful views as you cross the chain of mountains that separate the Paro and Thimphu valleys. In the clear weather of late autumn and winter, you will enjoy great views of the Himalayas.
Itinerary Overview
- DAY 1: Arrive Paro
- DAY 2: Paro
- DAY 3: Paro – Jele Dzong (trek)
- DAY 4: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha (trek)
- DAY 5: Jangchulakha – Tsaluna (trek)
- DAY 6: Tsaluna – Thimphu (trek)
- DAY 7: Thimphu
- DAY 8: Thimphu (Hike to Tango Goemba)
- DAY 9: Thimphu – Punakha
- DAY 10: Punakha
- DAY 11: Punakha – Phobjikha – Trongsa
- DAY 12: Trongsa – Bumthang
- DAY 13: Bumthang
- DAY 14: Bumthang – Wangdue
- DAY 15: Wangdue – Paro
- DAY 16: Depart Paro
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrive Paro
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, offering stunning views of some of the highest peaks. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you and guide you to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum, Ta Dzong, followed by a tour of Rimpung Dzong. End the day with a walk along the cantilevered wooden bridge and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Paro.
Day 2 | Paro
Start the day with a hike to Taktsang Monastery, an iconic landmark perched on a cliff. Learn about its spiritual significance and the legends associated with Guru Rimpoche. After lunch at a teahouse, visit the reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong and take in the majestic view of Mount Jomolhari on clear days. Return to your hotel for the evening.
Day 3 | Paro – Jele Dzong (trek)
Embark on the first day of the trek, climbing gradually to Jele Dzong through scenic landscapes. Explore the ancient dzong and enjoy panoramic views of the Paro Valley. Overnight at the campsite near Jele La Pass.
Day 4 | Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha (trek)
Continue trekking through lush rhododendron forests to Jangchulakha. Along the way, catch glimpses of Mt. Jomolhari and yak herders tending to their livestock. Camp at Jangchulakha amidst the serene alpine surroundings.
Day 5 | Jangchulakha – Tsaluna (trek)
Traverse ridges with stunning views of the Himalayan range as you descend towards Tsaluna. Take a break at Jimilangtsho Lake before reaching the Tsaluna campsite near picturesque farmlands.
Day 6 | Tsaluna – Thimphu (trek)
The final day of trekking takes you through fir forests and along streams to Tsaluna Monastery, a sacred site linked to Guru Rimpoche. From there, descend to Tsaluna Village before driving to Thimphu. Spend the evening exploring the capital city.
Day 7 | Thimphu
Explore the bustling capital with visits to the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage Museum, and Tashichhodzong. Learn about Bhutanese art and culture at the School for Arts and Crafts. Enjoy the local markets if your visit coincides with the weekend.
Day 8 | Thimphu (Hike to Tango Goemba)
Take a short but steep hike to Tango Goemba, a historic monastery and an important Buddhist institute. Learn about its history and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before returning to Thimphu for the evening.
Day 9 | Thimphu – Punakha
Drive over Dochu-La Pass, where you can admire panoramic Himalayan views. Descend into the warmer Punakha Valley and visit the grand Punakha Dzong. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple of fertility.
Day 10 | Punakha
Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten after a short hike through rice fields. Spend the afternoon exploring the serene countryside of Punakha. Enjoy a riverside picnic to complete the day.
Day 11 | Punakha – Phobjikha – Trongsa
Travel to the stunning glacial valley of Phobjikha, home to the black-necked cranes. Continue to Trongsa, stopping for a visit to Wangduephodrang Dzong en route. Overnight in Trongsa.
Day 12 | Trongsa – Bumthang
Drive to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. En route, visit Yutong La Pass and stop at Chumey Valley to see traditional weaving. Upon arrival, explore Jambay Lhakhang and Kurje Lhakhang, two of Bhutan’s most sacred sites.
Day 13 | Bumthang
Spend the day exploring Bumthang, including Tang Ugyen Chholing Palace and Mebartso, the ‘Lake of Fire.’ Learn about the region’s spiritual significance and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Day 14 | Bumthang – Wangdue
Depart for Wangdue, stopping for lunch in Trongsa. Explore the quaint Wangdue town and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Day 15 | Wangdue – Paro
Drive back to Paro, taking in the beautiful landscapes along the way. Enjoy your final evening in Bhutan exploring Paro’s local markets or relaxing at your hotel.
Day 16 | Depart Paro
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Bid farewell to Bhutan, carrying unforgettable memories of the Tsaluna Path Trek. Tashi Delek!