One of my best trips ever. Excellent guide and fellow trekkers. Beautiful country and people.
Walking Holidays in Bhutan
Bhutan Walking Holidays
5 Most Beautiful Places to Visit on Bhutan Walking Holidays
Paro Valley: Enveloped by lush hills, ancient pine trees and paddy fields punctuated by traditional farmhouses, the Paro Valley is considered to be one of the most beautiful locations in Bhutan. It also has a rich heritage and it once served as the centre of two significant trade routes that led to Tibet. Later, a new road would be built, which now runs to Phuentsholing, passing rice and paddy fields, gushing streams and historic settlements. Standing on a rocky outcrop and dominating the valley, the imposing Paro Dzong is one of Bhutan’s most important fortresses and arguably the most impressive.
Taktsang Monastery: Nuzzled into the towering cliffs overlooking the Paro Valley, Taktsang Monastery has been dubbed the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ owing to its lofty heights. The Monastery boasts one of the most incredible settings where you can see for miles across the Bhutan landscape. The history and legends that shroud the monastery add to the intrigue as you explore this ancient site. Although part of the monastery was destroyed during a fire in 1998, it has since been sympathetically restored to its former glory, making it one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Bhutan.
Labana Pass: Standing at 4,235 metres on the famous Druk Path, Labana Pass soars above the Thimphu Valley. As you trek to the summit of the pass you’ll encounter incredible blue pine forests, Gothic rock formations and tranquil mountain lakes. The varied landscape is interrupted now and again by ancient ruins and monasteries. From the top of Labana Pass you’re rewarded with unbelievable panoramas of Table Mountain, Gangar Punsum and the snow-dusted peaks of the Bhutan Himalaya. Parts of the trek can be demanding but the challenges you’ll face are far outweighed by the scenery.
Thimphu: The fascinating capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, may be small in stature but its hilly backdrop, riverside setting and beautiful architecture make up for its size. The Thimphu Valley lies on the banks of the River Thimphu Chu and plays host to the Bhutanese Royal Family. In the heart of the town a clock tower, an oversized statue of Buddha and the Memoria Chorten are particular sites of interest for history lovers.
Paro Town: The historic valley town of Paro is home to many ancient religious sites all wrapped inside forested hills and overlooked by the Paro Dzong and Taktsang Monastery. Among the fertile landscape you can explore 14th-century monasteries and temples, traditional Bhutan houses and the vibrant Paro market. Cutting through the town is the Paro Chu River which once served as a vital lifeline for the locals. Paro Town is relatively new, and the main street was surprisingly only built in 1985, now lined with brightly coloured shops and restaurants serving authentic Bhutanese dishes.
Sheila Stallard Bhutan: Druk Path Trek
Linda Dawson Bhutan: Druk Path TrekAgainst a background of knowing nothing of Bhutan, I found the trip so educational and broadening of my horizons with regard to the country’s culture, customs, history, religion, etc. The trip fulfilled my desire to be immersed in the country’s culture. I found it so interesting to listen to the two leaders in an effort to learn as much as possible of the country both of whom went to a great deal of time and effort to impart their knowledge and experience. I also enjoyed being amongst like minded people within the group and enjoyed listening to their stories, especially of their travels already made and those planned in the future.
Caroline Scraggs Bhutan: Druk Path TrekWhat an amazing trip which exceeded my expectations. Bhutan has been on my bucket list for many years and I particularly wanted to go on a trip which combined the experience of seeing the Paro festival firsthand, a visit to the Tiger’s Nest monastery and some trekking and this trip does just that. The festival was fantastic and such a wonderful and joyous occasion with the locals in their national dress watching in their hundreds the amazing storytelling through dance. The final day we were treated to a view of the Thangka which was beautiful. It was a real privilege to be able to witness this festival and be part of it.
The trek had stunning scenery and was challenging enough I just wish it had been a little warmer at night!. Waking up to snow was a little chilly but the hot water bottles in our sleeping bags at night helped to take the chill off!
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