SAMTENGANG WINTER TREK – 9-nights/ 10-days

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Samtengang winter trek is one of the shortest and easiest low altitude treks in Bhutan. It is thus, suitable for the beginners who want to have trekking experience in the Himalayan areas. The trek offers several cultural and scenic beauty to its trekkers. The trek is best experienced in the winter season as the name itself suggest as Samtengang winter trek. It is because during winter, the sky is clear and you can see unobstructed views of Himalayas. In summer, the temperature is extremely high, so the trek is not preferable to go on summer season. The trekking trail begins from Paro that passes through several oak and rhododendron forests and villages. The trek adds extra loveliness through visit to several temples, monasteries and Dzongs.

TRIP DETAILS

Day 01: Arrive Paro

Today, we take an early morning flight and arrive at Paro, where you will be meeting our representative and then you will be transferred to your Hotel once we cover up the formalities. During day, we can go for a general sightseeing. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Paro

The day calls for a full day sightseeing in Paro. So, we drive to Drukgyel Dzong, which was built in 1646. From here, we can also watch the finest views of Mt. Chomolhari. On our way back, we visit, Kyichu Lhakhang, monastery built in the 7^th century. These two shrines are the one of the most sacred places in Bhutan.

After lunch, we visit Ta Dzong, which was previously built as a watchtower to protect Rinpung Dzong. In 1968, it was inaugurated as the National Museum. Also, we take a visit to Rinpung Dzong (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), the center of district administration. Rinpung Dzong is also the home of the local monk body. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 03: Paro to Thimphu

Having our breakfast, we drive to Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan. A good view of Simtokha Dzong, built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal can be observed on the way; it is standing on a hillock above the road.

In the afternoon, we trip to Tashichhodzong, the impressive fortress/monastery built in 1641. It was built by first Shabdrung and again reconstructed in the 1960s. Also, we will explore National Memorial Chorten. And in the evening, we will browse in the Handicrafts Emporium, including the splendid thangkha paintings and exquisitely woven textiles. Bhutan is famous for all these stuffs. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 04: Thimphu to Punakha

We drive to Bhutan’s former capital Punakha and stop at Dochu-la pass (3,088m) to watch in the panoramic views of snowcapped eastern Himalayan peaks. Then, we observe Punakha Dzong, a superb Bhutanese architecture built in 1637, situated at the confluence of two rivers. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 05: Punakha to Limukha – 5 to 6 hours walk

We start our trek and cross a suspension bridge over the river by Punakha Dzong first and then walk to reach Shengana. With a gradual climb to Limukha, we visit Dompala village on the route. Overnight at lodge/camp.

Day 06: Limukha to Chungsakha – 5 to 6 hours

The trail today takes us downhill via rhododendron and oak forested areas. On our way, we take a look at famous temple, which was a winter residence by Lama Drukpa Kuenley in the 15th century. We then reach Chungsakha. Overnight at lodge/camp.

Day 07: Chungsakha to Samtengang – 5 to 6 hours walk

We walk down to cross Pe Chu River and then move uphill to Sha village. We continue our uphill trek to reach by the lakeside at Samtengang. Overnight at lodge/camp.

Day 08: Samtengang to Wangduephodrang to Thimphu – approx. 3 hours (short route) and approx. 6 hours (longer route)

Following our way back now, we walk to the motor road near Chuzomsa. There we meet our transport and reach Wangdue. Having our lunch here, we then visit Wangdue Dzong and then arrive at Thimpu. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 09: Thimphu to Paro

On our way back, we visit the National Library, where an extensive collection of Buddhist literature can be found along with manuscripts dating back several hundred years. Then, we stop by Zorig Chusum (the Painting School); students are trained in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts here. While on our drive to Paro, we will witness the appealing village sides and the lifestyle of local people. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 10: Depart from Paro

We catch our respective flights to our destination enjoying the mountain views from the aircraft. You will be leaving Bhutan and we will be bidding our final farewell hoping to see you again.