Tsaluna Trek 9 Days

This tour is a great option for those short on time wanting to combine a tour of Bhutan's main attractions along with a short 4 day trek to see some of the beautiful Himalayas. The Tsaluna Trek is a moderate four day trek that is essentially a shorter version of the longer Druk Path trek. The trek offers beautiful views as you cross the chain of mountains that separate the Paro and Thimphu valleys. This route is also famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests and wonderful high altitude lakes abundant with fish. The program starts with a visit to the Tiger's Nest Monastery. This incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. After trekking we will visit the main sights in Thimphu and Punakha before heading back to Paro for your departure.

What's Included?

• Airport Transfers
• Bhutan Visa
• Transportation by private vehicle in Bhutan
• English speaking guide
• All meals
• Accommodation
• Entrance fees, Trekking permits, All local taxes
• Services of Guide, Cook & Helper on the Trek
• Mess Tent, Kitchen and Toilet Tent
• Ponies to carry supplies
• Sleeping Pads (Bring your own Sleeping Bag)

*Single Supplement of $750 applies.

Day 1: Arrive Paro

Altitude: 2280m
We will pick you up when you arrive at the airport. It's a quick drive to your hotel where you can check in and have lunch. After lunch, visit the Ta dzong, an ancient watchtower, which also functions as the museum of Bhutan. Next we will visit Rimpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) one of the largest in all of Bhutan. Dzong architecture is a distinctive type of fortress architecture found mainly in Bhutan. In the evening, visit the Handicraft emporium and free for exploring the city. Dinner and overnight in Hotel in Paro

Day 2: Paro - Tiger's Nest

Altitude: 2320m, Drive Time to Thimphu: 1 hour (58km)
Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours - 4 miles/6.5 km
Today is a special day with an excursion to view the spectacular Taktsang (Tiger's Nest). After an early breakfast we drive north of Paro a short distance to begin our hike to the Tigers Nest, probably Bhutan's most famous landmark. The hike up to the monastery goes through a beautiful pine forest and you can catch several glimpses of the Tigers Nest (almost 900m above you). It's a good hike but well worth the effort and we will stop for lunch half way.

The trail takes you directly to this incredible monastery which clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. The Tiger's Nest was built in 1692 and still functions today despite the daily visits by numerous tourists. Dinner and overnight in Hotel in Paro

Day 3: Paro to Jele Dzong (Start Trek)

Altitude: 3400m. Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours - 5 miles/8 km
We will have breakfast at the hotel and prepare for our trek in the morning. Today is a short day of trekking and we will head up into the hills above Paro Valley to the Jele Dzong. It's a steep ascent but the views of the valley and surrounding snow capped mountains make it all worthwhile. Overnight at the campsite.

Day 4: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha

Altitude: 3770m. Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours - 6 miles/10 km
After breakfast we will start with a climb up through the thick alpine forests of rhododendrons. We will have fine views of Mt. Chomolhari and other snow capped peaks if the weather is right. We may hear some pheasants calling during the day. We may also see yak herders around your campsite. Overnight at campsite.

Day 5: Jangchulakha to Langrithang

Altitude: 3500m. Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
After breakfast we start with a short climb to a ridgeline offering great views of Jumolhari. Our trek continues to Jimilangtsho Lake (3,700m) where we will take lunch before descending towards Langrithang to camp for the night.

Day 6: Langrithang to Thimphu

Altitude: 2320. Hiking time: 3 to 5 hours
After breakfast and packing camp we will descend gradually through the fir trees and rhododendron forests before arriving at the Tsaluna Monastery. We will continue through the small village of Tsaluna where we will meet our driver. Dinner and overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 7: Thimphu Sightseeing

Altitude: 2320 m
We will have time to explore the capital today and visit one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. Plan on visiting the following local sites; The Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Monastery, Takin Preserve Centre, Tashichho Dzong and the Sangay Gang view point. Dinner and overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 8: Thimphu to Punakha to Thimpu

Altitude 1310m (Punakha). Drive Time: 3 hours each way (77km)
After breakfast, drive to Punakha via Dochula pass. If the weather is clear, we will be treated to a spectacular view of the Himalayas. Enroute, we stop to view Chimi Lhakhang, alternatively called the Temple of Fertility which was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, known popularly as The Divine Mad Man, in the 15th century. After lunch, visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, a traditional fort built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. We will drive back to Thimphu for the night. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast we will drive back to Paro to catch your international flight and farewell.