Overview
Trip Facts
- Destination: Bhutan
- Activities: Trekking
- Duration: 7 - 14 Days
- Region: Bhutan
- Best Season: Spring / Summer / Autumn
- Group Size: 02+ Pax
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Paro
After arriving from your scenic mountain flight to Para, you will be greeted by a friendly representative of Good Karma Trekking who will take you directly to your hotel. After you get settled in, we will take an afternoon visit to the National Museum of Bhutan known as Ta-Dzong. The museum offers tremendous insight into the tradition and history of the Bhutanese people and government as it has changed throughout the years. We then continue to the Paro Dzong which serves as the administrate center for the district to explore the beautiful architecture of the city before having welcome drink and dinner in Paro. Day 2 Paro Sightseeing
After breakfast we will take a 3-hour morning hike to visit the holy Taktsang Monastery. The peaceful hike offers some stunning views of the city and surrounding lowland. After resting at the viewpoint we continue to the actual monastery to learn more about the religious practices of the region while observing the daily life and practices of the local monks. This “tiger nest” monastery is one of the holiest in the region and a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. We will then hike back to Paro taking time to explore the charming city before returning to the hotel for the evening. Day 3 Paro to Thimphu
We will take a scenic morning drive to Thimphu passing along the powerful Pa-Chu and Wangchu Rivers. We will stop to visit the memorial chorten shrine dedicated to King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, which serves a place for locals to atone for their sins and pay respect to the gods. After taking some time to explore the scenic capital city, we will return to the hotel for the evening. Day 4 Thimphu Sightseeing
We will begin with a trip to the National Memorial Chorten honoring King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk for his dedication to Bhutan before exploring the Changangkha Temple and National Animal Sanctuary known for its scenic views of Thimphu. We then continue to the Spiritual Zilukha Nunnery and Dechenphodrang monistic school before lunch. We then continue to the National Library, School of Arts, traditional handicrafts center and the local goldsmiths while admiring the diverse craftsmanship of the Bhutanese people. We finish the day with a visit to the Tashi Chhodzong, which serves as the parliamentary capital known for its traditional architecture. We then take some time to explore the charming city before returning to the hotel for the evening. Day 5 Thimphu to Trongsa via Punakha
We will take an early breakfast and take a 3-hour drive to Punakha while crossing to Dochula pass offering views of the eastern Himalayan giants. Upon arrival in Punakha, we will visit the historical Punakha Dzong located at the crossing of the Po-Chu and Mo-chu Rivers. We will then continue on a 5-hour scenic ride to Trongsa stopping in Wangdue before continuing along the Pelela Pass. We will continue through traditional yak villages before reaching Trongsa to rest for the evening. Day 6 Trongsa to Bumthang
After breakfast, we will travel to the winter palace known for its famous library, which serves as the special commission for cultural affairs. We then continue to Kuenga Rabten to learn about the traditional Bhutanese monarchy before returning to Trongsa for lunch. We will take time to explore the Trongsa fort to learn more about the history of the city before driving to Bumthang along the Yotong La pass. Day 7 Bumthang
Bhumthang is known as the heaven of hiking in Bhutan and spans from heights of 2,600 to 4,000 meters while offering several monasteries and holy pilgrimage sites. We will visit the Tamshing monastery to visit the local monks before continuing to the Wangdi Chholing Palace famous for housing the cremations of every king. We will learn more about the spiritual influence of the region by visiting Janbay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, which portray many features of Buddhism in an accessible but traditional atmosphere. Day 8 Jakar to Nagang Lhakhang
We begin our trek following along the Chamkhar Chu River passing several small traditional town and temples along the way. This relaxing hike arrives at the famous Lhakhang Village known to be preferred migration location for Bhutanese swans Day 9 Ngang Lhakhang to Ugyenchholing
We take an uphill trail through a peaceful juniper and fir forest before arriving at the phe-phe la Pass located at 3,340 meters. After taking time to admire the scenery from the blustery pass, we continue down into the Tang Valley before arriving at ugyen Chholing where we will camp under the star light sky. Day 10 Drive to Bumthang
We will take an early morning walk to Ugyenchholing Dzong to explore the culture of the traditional mountain people while learning more about their timeless traditions and customs. We will then drive to Jakar along the Tang Chu River to visit the treasure filled burning lake created by the gods. We will visit several of the temples where locals flock to pay their respects to the gods by lighting butter lamps. After walking around the prayer flag encrusted lake region we will have the evening to explore the culture and bustling streets of Bumthang. Day 11 Bumthang to Wangdue via Gangtey
We continue to Gangtey Goemba, which is peacefully surrounded by pine trees and surrounded by small homes of devotees who worship at the monastery. We will continue to the Phobjikha Valley, which serves as a nesting site for the endangered black-necked crane. We will stop for a picnic in the scenic marsh filled valley before continuing to Wandue for the evening Day 12 Wangdu to Paro
We will spend the morning visiting the Wangdue fort rumored to have been constructed with the assistance of elephants. This important fort was built in the 17th century and has protected the region from invading countries ever since. We will then take a scenic hike to the Monastery of the Divine Mad Man known for increasing the fertility of devotees. This monastery provides tremendous insight into the spiritual nature of the local people and the life of the monks who live there. We will then continue to Paro to spend an evening exploring the bustling streets and celebrating the end of our trip. Day 13 Departure
Depending on your flight time you may be able to see a few more attractions before departing approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight time. You will be escorted to the airport with a representative from Good Karma trekking staff. After our farewells, you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure with Good Karma, as one time is never enough.Includes
- Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus (all airport transfers).
- Standard government approved accommodation (in twin share rooms) for the duration of tour.
- licensed English speaking Bhutanese Tour Guides.
- All Monument /Museum sightseeing tours, entrance Fees as per itinerary.
- All meals fixed breakfast, lunch & dinner with Tea and Coffee while remaining in Bhutan
- Government Royalty (which is 35% of $250) this goes to the country's health & education projects.
- Private Transport & Driver within Bhutan. (Imported Prado's, Micro Buses & Toyota Coaster Buses)
- Toyota 4 X 4 luggage vans & light trucks for group travel
- All our government taxes.
- Tourist service charge, vat.
- Official expense
- Bhutan Visa Fees and Visa Processing assistance
Excludes
- Bottled/alcoholic/cold drinks, room service and al a cart meals.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
- International airfares and airport departure tax.
- Photography charges (if and when applicable).
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry.
- Personal Equipment.
- Tips to guides, restaurants, hotel lobby. (Tipping is expected.)
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
Trip Note
Travellers Reviews
From the moment we stepped outside Kathmandu airport we knew we were in good hands. Raj and his professional team had taken care of everything. Our trek to Everest Base Camp is one we will remember for a long time. From accomodation, to meals, guide and porters. Everything went smoothly. Even the tricky weather in Lukla didn't hold us up too much. The tour of Kathmandu was great and we especially enjoyed the opening dinner that Raj planned for us.
I highly recommend Good Karma Trekking.
We are planing to return to Nepal and trek the Annapurna Circuit. We will definitely book with Raj and Good Karma Trekking again.
Best travel agency, very helpful and friendly staff. They offer great possibilities for trekking, excursions, help take care of all permits. Great company, wonderful trip, friendship for life. I would recommend!
Booked my first trip to Nepal with Good Karma after some recommendations on Tripadvisor. From my first email I was impressed with the level of attention I received and how flexible they were (something I couldn't get with several other other companies I and contacted). Had a great trip including sightseeing in Kathmandu and trekking to Everest base camp, and everything went extremely smoothly (except for the weather). Just returned from my second trip there and already planning my third. Its an amazing country, and Raj and the Good Karma team made it a great experience. Happy to answer any questions people have.
Kind, attentive, honest, dedicated attention is awaiting on your travels with Good Karma. I went to the Everest Base Camp(14 days), Bhutan (4 days) and the Chitwan game preserve (3 days) with them and was very well treated at a great price.
I recommend them for travel in Nepal under reliable conditions.
I will be glad to answer any inquiries on their subject.
A perfect travel partner on the foothills of Hiamalayas. I can proudly recommend my near and dear to Good Karma. Thanks a lot Good karma for excellent services on our trek.
I have traveled in many countries, but my experience in Nepal was special, thanks to Raj and his team who organized the exceptional way to all desired goals in this expedition which I had in Nepal and Tibet this autumn. I hope with all my heart to revisit again because I really miss Nepal. I started learning Hindi language since a few days.
So, Raj, Biji, I feel like I will visit you again! There are a lot of places that I have not seen yet! GOOD KARMA TREKKING is the best Agency for me!
Raj was knowledgeable and more than accommodating during our travels. We used Good Karma Trekking to book a trek to Annapurna, do white water rafting, and visit the elephants. It was one of the best trips I've had in my life and I've been to over 50 countries now. I would strongly recommend them to anyone who is traveling to Nepal and seeking a professional and friendly travel agency
BOOKING WITH KARMA: I booked a one-person tour to the Annapurna Circuit during the off season in August. During my inquiries with various trekking companies, Raj from Good Karma replied promptly and was always making sure that my needs were met before, during and after the trek. He was very flexible with whatever mode of transportation I desired to use even if it was just a couple of days in advance (including a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu with two days notice) . THE TOUR: The tour itself was amazing. True, the Annapurna Circuit can be done with no guide. But Raj provide me with none other than a Sherpa guide would allowed for easy communication with locals and got the best rooms and meals in all the lodges. He also knew where the shortcuts are and made sure my safety was a priority (specially with altitude sickness). TRANSPORTATION : Always keep in mind that Nepal is not the most developed nation in terms of infrastructure and road systems. I highly recommend getting a private vehicle. The drivers that Raj provides are some of the best I've seen even though they drive like maniacs. I felt relatively safe compared to a tourist bus/local bus. These are worse and the safety standards are very low OVERALL: I highly recommend this tour company. Make sure you communicate with Raj constantly so he knows what your needs are.
Had an unforgettable experience trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Good Karma in 2012. Nabraj and his team are knowledgable, passionate and great hosts, and are genuine in providing the best experience possible. They went above and beyond to cater to our interests and provided outstanding hospitality. Nabraj has become a good friend since, we are regularly in touch and I look forward to joining Good Karma on a trek again soon!
I worked with Good Karma Trekking a few years ago when they organized a trip through Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan for me and a group of almost 30 people. They were the best choice for our trip. The hotels they booked, the accommodation, the vehicles used for our transportation were all top class. Raj and his team really know their country (and the neighboring countries) and are able to custom made programs that suit each and every individual on a group, no matter the size. We particularly enjoyed the trips around Kathmandu valley, up to Nagarkot, down in the jungle in Chitwan and resting at the foot of Anapurna in Pokhara. Raj even organized some trips that were not in the initial schedule and which were greatly appreciated - for instance the visit to Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu.
I was also on the group that took a tour of Tibet with Good Karma Trekking. Everything went smooth, from crossing the border into China to altering the program so we could stay at a lower altitude when some of our colleagues felt sick.
For all of us on that trip Raj also became a good friend and we kept in touch ever since.
Whenever I hear someone thinking of visiting Nepal I always recommend Good Karma Trekking. I am also sure that next time myself and any other member of the group would want to go to the Himalayan region Good Karma Trekking would be our first choice.
Good job, Good Karma Trekking!
I went on a one month trip to Nepal with Good Karma Trekking, and I must say it was really amazing! Well worth the time and the cost of traveling there! Part of what made my experience so wonderful was the guide that I had. His name is Raj Ghimire, and he is the sole proprietor of GOOD KARMA TREKKING LTD. He is a truly honest guy, with a very kind heart, and I believe that he would give you the BEST Nepal experience, no matter where in the country you want to travel. When my friends and I were over there, he treated us like family (no, I'm not exaggerating), and I still stay in touch with him. His rates are GREAT too! And if you need porters, tea house reservations, or a personal driver to show you Kathmandu or Chitwan Park, he did ALL of these arrangements for us.
Go with Raj, he will take care of you!
This was literally the best experience I've had with a travel company anywhere in the world. They are efficient, culturally smart and very friendly. They even went out of their way to help with issues that were not necessarily part of our contract. I will definitely trust them to organize any trip for me in the future.
Good Karma organized everything for my trip including city tours, travel, hotels and trekking. They were very professional and helpful creating a trip that included what i wanted to see and not just the standard itinerary. The owner Raj even helped bargain for lower prices on souvenirs and trekking equipment while i was in Kathmandu. He also showed me some of his favorite restaurants and some of the local specialties and offered me some wild honey from his home town. The trek went great and the guide was very knowledgeable about the trails and flora and fauna of the himalayas. I have done a trip with abovethehimalays before and the service and price of Good Karma was much better. I would suggest this company to anyone looking for an authentic experience.
We had a great experience with Good Karma Trekking in Kathmandu, Nepal. Raj, the owner of the company, was very helpful. He has an excellent knowledge about the Kathmandu area, and generally about Nepal. He is more than a usual travel agency, passionate about his work, and about promoting the Nepal sights. I am sure that we will use his services again when we return to Nepal, hopefully soon.
I met Raj in Kathmandu through a mutual friend and I've been amazed by his hospitality and generosity. They gave me all the informations I needed about the transportation, treks and more! Thank you for your kindness and your support and I really hope to meet you again! Cheers
Fantastic experience with Good Karma Trekking. Always keen to help and to make sure you are well taken care of in Nepal. Would not hesitate to recommend them to friends and family!
I was In Nepal last year and I really enjoyed the time. I must say that the service offered by Good Karma Trekking is excellent. I would recommend it to all, if you went to Nepal.
I used Good Karma Trekking for a first trip to Nepal in Nov 2011 and from the moment of contact the trip went very smoothly. I would highly recommend this company and would be happy to be contacted independently to provide a review.
A good company, thoroughly recommended. Their 16 day tour is ideal for first time visitors. Reasonably priced tours.
En 2012 tuve el agrado de conocer a Nabraj Ghimire en Katmandú. Su ayuda en una país desconocido me sirvió de mucho. Es una persona honesta y desinteresada que realiza su trabajo con vocación.
믿을만한 친구가하는 일입니다. 네팔에서 가격차이 그리 심하지 않습니다. 가장 싼 곳을 찾기보다, 안전함과 신뢰도, 그리고 만족도를 높이세요. :) It's great to do the trekking nad!!! :)
Excellence Review from Trip Adviser
https://goodkarmatrekking.com/bumthang-cultural-trek#sigProIdcdac709813
https://goodkarmatrekking.com/bumthang-cultural-trek#sigProIdcdac709813
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