Owl Trek Bumthang
Olakha, Thimphu Bumchu, Building, Bhutan
Tour Type
Explore Tours
Introduction
The Owl Trek in Bumthang, Bhutan, typically known for its shorter variants, can also be extended into an immersive 12-day journey. This longer version allows trekkers to deeply explore the diverse ecosystems, cultural sites, and breathtaking landscapes of Bumthang and its surroundings. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan this extraordinary adventure.
Overview
- Duration: 12 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Highest Altitude: 3,600 meters (12,000 feet)
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
What to Expect
- Flora and Fauna: The extended trek offers even more opportunity to encounter diverse ecosystems, from alpine forests to meadows and wetlands. Bird watching, including owl spotting, and wildlife sightings are common.
- Cultural Immersion: The longer duration allows for a deeper cultural experience, with more time spent in villages and monasteries.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy a wider range of panoramic views, with multiple opportunities to photograph the majestic landscapes of Bumthang and beyond.
Preparation Tips
- Physical Fitness: Given the length and difficulty of the trek, regular cardio and strength training exercises are highly recommended.
- Gear: Ensure you have all necessary trekking gear, including comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good sleeping bag, and a sturdy backpack. Additional items like a camera, binoculars, and a flashlight are essential.
- Permits: Arrange necessary permits through a local tour operator or the Bhutanese Tourism Council well in advance.
- Guides and Porters: Hiring a local guide and porters is crucial for navigating the extended route and enhancing your cultural experience.
Conclusion
The 12-day Owl Trek in Bumthang is a remarkable journey that offers an in-depth exploration of Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Ideal for seasoned trekkers and nature enthusiasts, this extended trek promises a profound and memorable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
Included/Exclude
- SDF (Sustainable Development Fees) & Taxes for above said duration of stay in Bhutan.
- Visa process and E-permits arrangement as per the itinerary mentioned here.
- All accommodations on twin/double sharing basis or as per the group size.
- Breakfast & your choice of lunch and dinner.
- Full-time English-Speaking License Guide from Medieval Bhutan Tours.
- Transfers and sightseeing as per your itinerary by comfortable imported vehicles.
- Applicable entrance fees to those sightseeing indicated in the itinerary only.
- Farmhouse experiences for those interested guests.
- Cultural experiences and activities for those interested.
- Complimentary bottled water throughout the journey.
- Flight Fares (domestic & internationals).
- Additional/Extra room supplement and room upgrade charges.
- Bank charges for payment transfers. Card payment charges are higher than wire transfer.
- Any alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages taken from the hotels/restaurants
- Personal expenses or shopping, phone calls, use business center in the hotels etc.
- Travel Insurance covering COVID expenses & refund for unforeseen trip cancelation.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Activities like (Cycling, River Rafting, Motor Biking, Horse Riding, Cultural Program etc.).
- Anything which is not mentioned under inclusion are not included in the cost.
Tour Amenities
Accepts Credit Cards
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
Restaurant
Tour Plan
Highlights: Arrive in Paro and acclimate to the altitude. Visit the Paro Dzong and the National Museum. Overnight stay in Paro.
- Distance: 1.5 hours by car
- Highlights: Travel to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Explore the city’s landmarks, including the Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma, and the National Memorial Chorten. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
- Distance: 2.5 hours by car
- Highlights: Drive to Punakha, with a stop at Dochula Pass for stunning Himalayan views. Visit the Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang (the Temple of Fertility). Overnight stay in Punakha.
- Distance: 5-6 hours by car
- Highlights: Travel to Trongsa, passing through picturesque valleys and traditional villages. Visit the Trongsa Dzong and the Tower of Trongsa Museum. Overnight stay in Trongsa.
- Distance: 2.5 hours by car
- Highlights: Drive to Jakar, the starting point of the trek. Explore Jakar Dzong and local markets. Overnight stay in Jakar.
- Distance: 5-6 hours trekking
- Highlights: Begin the trek from Jakar, passing through meadows and blue pine forests. Camp near Dhur Village, experiencing the local culture.
- Distance: 7-8 hours trekking
- Highlights: Ascend through spruce, hemlock, and juniper forests to Drangela Pass. Continue to Kitiphu Ridge, known for its owl population. Camp overnight.
- Distance: 6-7 hours trekking
- Highlights: Descend through rhododendron forests to Tharpaling Monastery. Continue to Ngalhakhang, a serene village. Camp overnight.
- Distance: 5-6 hours trekking
- Highlights: Trek to Ugyencholing, visiting the Ugyencholing Palace Museum. Learn about Bhutanese aristocratic life. Camp overnight.
- Distance: 5-6 hours trekking
- Highlights: Journey to Tang Valley, one of Bumthang's most beautiful valleys. Visit the Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho), a sacred pilgrimage site. Camp overnight.
- Distance: 4-5 hours trekking
- Highlights: Return to Jakar, concluding the trekking adventure. Relax and explore more of Bumthang’s cultural sites. Overnight stay in Jakar.
- Distance: Flight from Jakar to Paro
- Highlights: Fly back to Paro for your departure. Reflect on your journey through Bhutan’s heartland.
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+975 (77417543)
Phone No.
+975 (17838952)
Email Address
info@drtoursandtreks.com
Visit office
Olakha, Thimphu Bumchu, Building