Bhutan Rodongla Trek

During your flight to Paro, you will have the opportunity to marvel at some of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tserim Gang. Upon arrival in Paro, you will be greeted by our representative, who will accompany you throughout your stay in Bhutan.

After some refreshments, your visit will begin with the National Museum. This museum features beautiful displays that showcase the rich cultural and natural history of Bhutan, offering an excellent introduction to the country and its unique heritage.

Next, we will visit the Paro Rimpong Dzong. These structures, known as dzongs, are among the most distinct and important buildings in Bhutan, serving as the offices for district administration and residences for monks.

After exploring the dzong, we will hike down to the wooden bridge and enjoy some free time in the town. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m

Trekking to the revered Taktsang Monastery is a must-do activity for all visitors to Bhutan. This ancient monastery, founded by Guru Rinpoche, clings dramatically to a cliffside, offering breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. The ascent takes about four hours and passes through a stunning landscape of waterfalls, meditation caves, prayer wheels, and colorful flags—perfect for photography.

After exploring the temple complex, enjoy lunch at a teahouse while taking in the magnificent scenery. The hike back down to the valley takes around 45 minutes, providing further opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings. Later drive to Thimphu for overnight. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 3150m, Drive: 2hrs, Trek: 5hrs, Distance:7km  

After breakfast, visit the statue of Buddha Dordenma, which overlooks the Thimphu Valley. Then, stop at the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the 3rd King, followed by a visit to the Painting School, where students learn 13 different arts and crafts unique to Bhutan. You can also visit Changlimithang Ground to witness an archery match, the national sport of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, drive to Sangaygang and enjoy a short, one-hour hike to Wangditse Temple. This beautiful hike offers stunning views of the Thimphu Valley. You can also stop at the zoo to see the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan. Later in the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, the summer residence of the central monastic body. Conclude your day with a stroll around the craft market to explore some local products. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m

As you head towards Punakha, you can make several stops along the way to enjoy the beautiful landscape and forest. One of these stops will be at Dochula Pass, which is adorned with 108 stupas. On clear days, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Himalayas.

From the pass, you'll descend into the fertile valley of Punakha. Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated between two rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. After exploring the Dzong, take a walk to Changyul and cross Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge.

Next, you'll head further north and walk through rice fields to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Temple, which dominates the Punakha Valley. Afterward, drive back towards Lobesa and take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. Built in the 15th century, this temple is known as the Fertility Temple, where couples who are unable to conceive come to seek blessings for a child.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m, Drive: 2hrs

After breakfast, drive towards Wangdue Phodrang and visit Wangdue Dzong, originally built in 1638, which was tragically burned down in 2012 and reconstructed in 2022. After exploring the Dzong, continue your journey towards Phobjikha, with a stop at Nobding Village.

As you approach Pelela Pass (3,420 meters), you will catch your first glimpse of the Black Mountain ranges, historically used as the border between eastern and western Bhutan. Just before reaching the pass, take a right turn towards the valley known for its rare and famous Black-Necked Cranes.

Your first stop will be the village of Gangtey (3,000 meters), followed by a visit to Gangtey Gompa. The villagers are said to be descendants of around 50 gomchens, or lay monks, who settled there long ago. Afterward, hike through the glacial valley of Phobjikha (2,900 meters), one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan and the winter nesting ground for the rare Black-Necked Cranes.Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2900m, Drive: 2hrs

As you continue your journey, you will stop at Pelela Pass, located at 3,420 meters. From there, you’ll descend towards Langthel Village, where the inhabitants raise sheep and yaks. Along the road, you’ll catch a glimpse of Rukubji Village, nestled amidst fields of potatoes, barley, and mustard, depending on the season.

The next village you’ll pass through is Chendebji, known for its large white stupa, modeled after Swayambhunath in Nepal and built in the 19th century.

As you approach Trongsa, you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of Trongsa Dzong, which overlooks the Mangde Chhu in the deep valley below. Upon arrival in Trongsa, visit the 17th-century Trongsa Dzong, the most strategically located fortress in Bhutan. The first two kings of Bhutan used to reside here during the winter months.

You’ll also visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower converted into a museum in 2008. The museum houses about 244 artifacts used over the years by the Wangchuck dynasty. you will head towards Jakar, crossing over Yotongla Pass at 3,420 meters and passing through the Chumey Valley. In Chumey Village, you can stop to observe the local women weaving Yaktra, a traditional fabric made from wool and yak hair. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2500m, Drive: 4hrs

On your way to Tang, visit the famous Burning Lake, where the saint Terton Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures. Continue towards Tang, stopping to visit Tang Rimochen Temple, named for the "Tiger’s Stripe" pattern that the large rock behind the temple resembles.

From there, stop at Metsi Zampa and take a 45-minute hike to Ugyenchholing, the former home of the most powerful governor of Trongsa in the 19th century. Today, it houses a family museum with an extensive collection of household items used during the governor's time.

Overnight at Ogyencholing Guesthouse.

Altitude: 2896m, Drive: 2hrs

The trek begins at the historic 19th-century manor house, Ogyen Choling, situated at an elevation of 2,896 meters. From there, the trail winds through diverse landscapes, starting with dense bamboo groves and towering hemlock trees, eventually ascending into the pristine alpine forests. Along the way, trekkers may encounter nomadic yak herders and enjoy the opportunity to sample traditional highland dairy products, offering a unique taste of the region’s pastoral life.

Today's journey concludes with an overnight camp in a picturesque meadow at the head of the valley, set at Phokphe, an altitude of 3,554 meters.

Altitude: 3554m, Trek 5-6hrs  

The trek from the Phokphe campsite begins with a steady climb of approximately three hours to reach Rodongla Pass, the highest point of the journey at 4,129 meters. As the ascent progresses, the temperature noticeably drops, and the landscape transitions, with rhododendron shrubs becoming more prominent along the trail. Upon reaching Rodongla, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of deep mountain valleys blanketed in lush pine forests.

From the pass, the route descends through a dramatic gorge, where the region’s rich folklore of spirits and yetis adds a mystical aura to the experience. As the day nears its end, you’ll arrive at a campsite near Pimi, set at an altitude of 3,004 meters. Close to the campsite, you'll find the remnants of a stone building once used as a grain storehouse during the reigns of Bhutan’s first and second kings, offering a glimpse into the area’s historical significance.

Tonight, you will camp at Pimi.

Altitude: 3004m, Trek 5-6hrs

On the final day of the trek, the trail meanders through the charming villages of Unger, where you'll be greeted by our transport for the journey ahead. From there, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Gorgan, followed by an additional 30-minute drive to Autsho, a picturesque village nestled in northeastern Bhutan. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 920m, Trek 5-6hrs  

After breakfast, you will drive to Lhuentse, with a stop along the way to visit the impressive Takila-Guru Statue. Standing at a remarkable 173 feet, this is the largest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world. Surrounding the statue are eight large and 108 smaller chortens, making the site not only an important pilgrimage destination but also a sacred place for meditation and retreat.

Continuing the journey, you will head to Lhuentse to visit the historic Lhuentse Dzong. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Kuri Chhu river, this majestic fortress was built in 1654 by Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tempa on the site of an older temple founded by Nagi Wangchuk in 1552.

On your way back, you will stop in the village of Khoma for lunch in a traditional farmhouse, providing a glimpse into local life and culture.

Later in the afternoon, you will drive to Mongar, the second-largest town in eastern Bhutan. The drive takes you through winding roads and picturesque valleys, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, enjoy a stroll around the quaint town of Mongar.

Overnight at the hotel in Mongar.

Altitude: 1200m, Drive 3hrs   

In the morning, visit Mongar Dzong. Although relatively modern, having been built in the 1930s, it follows the same architectural traditions as Bhutan's ancient dzongs, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage.

Afterward, you will drive to Trashigang, Bhutan’s easternmost town, nestled along the banks of the Dangme Chhu river. En route, you will stop at Gom Kora Monastery, home to around 30 monks, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Continue your drive to Trashigang, and upon arrival, visit Trashigang Dzong, a majestic fortress built in 1659 to protect against Tibetan invasions. Known as ‘The Fortress of the Auspicious Hill,’ it stands proudly overlooking the Dangme Chhu valley. In the evening, you’ll have time to explore the lively town of Trashigang. Overnight at the hotel.

Altitude: 1200m, Drive 3hrs    

In the morning, we will depart from Trashigang to visit Rangjung monastery, which overlooks the small village of Ranjung. From there, we will head to Radhi, a village renowned for its wild silk weavings. Afterward, we will continue to Merak, one of the most fascinating places to visit in Trashigang. Located in a mountainous area at an altitude of about 3,520 meters, Merak is home to a semi-nomadic population whose traditional way of life has remained unchanged for hundreds of years. Surrounded by breathtaking high-altitude plains, the village is adorned with stunning vegetation. We will visit some farmhouses and wil interact with the locals. 

In the evening, we will return to Trashigang. Overnight at the hotel.

Altitude: 3520m, Drive 4hrs    

Along the way, you’ll pass Sherubtse College in Kanglung, Bhutan’s first college, established in 1978. The road then climbs towards Yonphu La Pass at 2,190 meters, cutting across a ridge into another valley before gradually descending to Gumchu and rounding the corner to reach Khaling. Here, you can visit the Textile Weaving Centre, operated by the National Women’s Association of Bhutan, which showcases the rich tradition of Bhutanese weaving.

After Khaling, the road winds above small villages and fields, crossing Kharung La Pass at 2,350 meters, and later another pass at 2,430 meters. The route curls around ridges and narrow valleys, eventually arriving at the charming town of Wamrong, perched at 2,130 meters. From Wamrong, it’s about 20 kilometers to the Pemagatshel town junction, descending through quaint villages along the way.

The next stop is Deothang, a center for technical training and home to the road maintenance headquarters for eastern Bhutan. From here, the road descends rapidly to the plains, passing through dense tropical forests rich with teak, bamboo, and ferns. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 200m, Drive 5hrs    

After breakfast, drive to Guwahati for onward flight to Delhi