Phobjikha Trekking

10 Days / 9 Nights

About Phobjikha Trekking

Experience glimpse of adventure /local life and culture of Land of Happiness.The trek will start from the Phobjikha valley (Altitude 3000m), which is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in the country.

This quiet and remote valley is also the home to the rare black necked cranes, which migrate from the Tibetan plateaus in the winter. The trail will take you through forests of juniper, bamboo, magnolia and rhododendrons and over small streams of fresh, clean mountain water. This trek is best for those visitors who are not accustomed of trekking in the mountains as it offers beautiful views of the valley with mostly gentle, forested slopes. Although the teak is possible throughout the year, the best time for this trek is between September and May.This tour will also cover the beautiful valleys of Paro, Punakha, Gangtey and the capital of the country Thimphu, which will give you the glimpse of the culture, tradition and the adventure this blissful land holds.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01Arrival Paro – Thimphu

Once you arrive at Paro, your tour manager will drive you to Thimphu. On the way stop at get a scenic view of the Tachog Lhakhang, which was built in the 15th century.

Thimphu is the capital of country, with a population of about 250,000 it may perhaps be the only capital in the world without traffic lights. Visit the Buddha Point where one of the biggest statues of the Bhuddha sits. Then go to the Simply Bhutan Museum, which will give you a general idea of the history, culture and tradition of the country.

In the evening explore the city and visit the Local Crafts Market.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2320m).

Day 02Thimphu Day Tour

After breakfast, go to the National Library, the Institute of Zorig Chusum and the Textile Museum which will give you more insight into the country’s culture and its arts and crafts. Post lunch drive to Sangaygang view point (2685m) and walk through hundreds of colorful prayer flags that cover the hill overlooking the valley. Then visit the Takin Reserve Centre where you will find the takins, this animal is found only in the Himalayan region and is the National Animal of the country.

Next drive to Changangkha Monastery which was built in the 15th Century, it also houses a temple of the local deity. Then visit the Memorial Chorten, which is on the most important landmarks in the city. Conclude the Daywith a visit to the Tashichho Dzong which houses the office of the king.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2320m).

Day 03Thimphu – Gangtey

Post breakfast drive up to Dochula pass (Altitude 3088m) from where with a favorable weather you will be able to see the highest peak in the country Gangkarpuensum (7497m). At Dochula you will also be able to see 108 stupas and Druk Wangyel Lhakhang.

Then drive further and stop at Rinchengang village, a small typical traditional village in Wangdue Phodrang. After lunch drive on to Gangtey through dense rhododendron trees and oak forest. The valley of Gangtey is considered one of the most beautiful untouched places in Bhutan. Go for a drive to Phobjikha and enjoy the beauty of the fascinating valley.

Overnight at Gangtey (Altitude 2830m).

Day 04Gangtey Gompa - Gogona

Day 05Gogona - Khotokha

In the morning you will start the climb through the flocks of sheep and ploughed fields into a forest of oak, spruce, miniature azaleas, cypress, rhododendron and juniper. Pass through the Shobju La pass (3410m) and descend through the rocky and muddy trail crossing small streams through the forest, eventually connecting to a farm road. Follow the road to get to Dolonaga (2830m) and then move down the trail and arrive at Chorten Karpo (2790m), the camp will be setup beside the forest overlooking the valley and the village of Khothangkha.

Overnight camp (Altitude 2790).

Day 06Khotokha - Tikke Zampa - Punakha

Day 07Punakha Day Tour

Day 08Punakha - Paro

Post breakfast drive back to Paro and on the way visit Simthokha Dzong, which is one of the oldest dzongs in the country. Once you arrive at Paro visit Ta Dzong the National Musum, which was built as a watch tower over the Paro Dzong. Then walk to Paro Rinpung Dzong, the fortress which has a long and fascinating history. During the evening go around the town and explore some local handicraft stores.

Overnight at Paro (Altitude 2280m).

Day 09Paro Day Tour

In the morning hike to Taktshang Monastery, it is the one of the most religious and sacred sites in the country. It is perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the valley. In the afternoon drive to the base of Drugyel Dzong and visit a traditional farm house nearby. While returning to the hotel on the way stop at Kyichu Lhakhang, which is one of the oldest temple in the country built it the 7th century.

Overnight at Paro (Altitude 2280m).

Day 10Departure

FAQs

What is the best time for trekking to Phobjikha?

The best time for Phobjikha trekking is from September to May. It is during this time that the weather is quite pleasant, and a valley is blooming with clear views and flora in its full glory.

Is Phobjikha suitable for beginner trekkers?

Yes, Phobjikha is suitable for beginner trekkers. The trail is mostly gentle with forest slopes, and the trek gradually introduces mountain trekking while offering views and a glimpse of Bhutanese culture.

Can I see the black-necked cranes on my trek?

Yes, the Phobjikha Valley is one of the favourite locations for black-necked cranes coming from the Tibetan highlands during the winter month. If you visit between October and February, you will enjoy a rare glimpse of those strikingly beautiful creatures.

Is this trek suitable for families?

Yes, this trek is suitable for families. It is a moderate-level trek with some elevation gains and occasional steep steps. However, the trail also includes many flat and comfortable sections, making it manageable for all age groups. Additionally, the trek offers fascinating cultural highlights that appeal to travellers of all ages.

The best time for Phobjikha trekking is from September to May. It is during this time that the weather is quite pleasant, and a valley is blooming with clear views and flora in its full glory.