Rodungla Trek

Rodungla Trek in Trashi Yangtse

Dochula Pass, Thimphu

This is 20 days Bhutan tour package combined with Rodungla Trek in Trashi Yangtse. Rodungla trek in Bhutan does not ascend to very high altitudes, it is still fairly challenging as the trail covers some fairly steep climbs and descents. The trail takes you from Bumthang in Central Bhutan to Trashi Yangtse in the far eastern reaches of the kingdom. The route was once an important trade road in the past but has fallen into disuse now and is chiefly used as a hiking trail. The trail passes through alpine and bamboo forests, meadows and mountain passes, through villages and temples offering hikers an incredible array of biodiversity to appreciate. Book with us. Rodungla Trek Trashi Yangtse. 10 Days Eastern Bhutan Trek. 

Day 01: Arrival in Paro
Fly on the wings of the Dragon to Bhutan, on arrival in Paro International Airport, complete the immigration formalities and exit through only one arrival gate where HBT dedicated team who will be holding placard, no one will be missed. We welcome with khaddar and proceed to hotel and relax. Visit 17th century Paro Dzong: ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’, is ranked one of the best Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, particularly when landing at Paro Airport. The Dzong also offers administrative seat of the district of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Ta Dzong unique national museum: Perched above Paro Dzong it was watchtower built in 1649 to protect the undefended Paro Dzong located below, renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. Today this museum houses the best collections of all time historical items making worth for a visit. Enjoy outdoor activities wearing Gho/Kira, play archery: Nicely made and well maintained activity place attached to whole sell Buddha statue store, offers wearing Bhutanese dress, playing archery and darts for guests visiting Bhutan. The center is maintained and operated by HBT herself and its free of cost for all HBT guests.

Day 02: Tiger Nest Hike to Thimphu (1.5 Hrs)
The route will follow Paro River until Chuzom from where we will bend towards Thimphu river taking us to the heart of capital city Thimphu. The entire stretch of drives is very scenic and picturesque as we pass by some of the beautiful villages of Bondey, Shaba, Isuna etc until we enter welcome gate in Thimphu. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger Nest Temple): is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious Buddhist site in the world. The name Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Bhutan which clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley. Although good trekkers can make it to the top in two hours, most of the guests take whole day to complete the hike. In the evening we will explore the city by walk: If time permits, walking through the city gives you immense joys and understanding of modern city. Good option for imported garments and local souvenir, beside unique local handicrafts. Thimphu offers mixed style of personalities. Take the street walk in Thimphu- only city in the world without traffic lights.

Day 03: Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu- This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights. Cheri Monastery: In 1627 the first Buddhist Monastic School for Bhutan was started by Shabdrung in Cheri, which to these days has become a Meditation center for higher level Buddhist studies. The Monastery buildings are old and still contains many sacred relic from past. Drive pass by Memorial Chorten: It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day. The National Memorial Chorten was built in memory of Late Third King of Bhutan and dedicated to World Peace. Third King is regarded as father of modern Bhutan. Visit Buddha viewpoint: The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. Changangkha Lhakhang: Changangkha Lhakhang is located at the lower part of Motithang in upper Thimphu, on a small hill overlooking the Thimphu Town below. The main relic of Changangkha Lhakhang is the Chenrigzi in an 11 headed thousand arms manifestation. Visit textile museum: The National Textile Museum which opened in June 2001, is worth a leisurely visit to get to know the living national art of weaving. Changing exhibitions introduce the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by women and men. The small shop features work from the renowned weaving centers in Lhuntshe Dzongkhag, in north-eastern Bhutan. Each item is leveled with the name of the weaver and price. The textile museum’s exhibition are centered around six major themes – warp pattern weaves, weft pattern weaves, role of textiles in religion, achievements in textile arts, textiles from indigenous fibres and the royal collection. Visit Tashichho Dzong: Houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and government secretariat buildings, beautiful arts and crafts, built in 17th century. Visitors are open for an hour in the evening and closed during official meeting or gathering.

Day 04: Thimphu to Punakha (2.5 Hrs)
Start the most scenic drive to Punakha from Thimphu over dochula pass which takes about two hours. After the break at Dochula, the road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan. Dochula pass 3150m: The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass. Visit Lamperi Botanical Garden: The park has many varieties of plants, herbs, birds and animals. If you visit between April and June, you can find about 38 out of Bhutan’s 46 species of rhododendrons and spot some of the 220 species birds. This park is one of the must visit place for birds and nature lovers. You may enjoy the hot packed lunch here if you had planned picnic. Visit the most beautiful Punakha Dzong: Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952.  This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands inbetween meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan. Enjoy the walks on the suspension bridge: Punakha suspension bridge is considered one of the longest of its kind in Bhutan. The bridge connects the dzong with the villages Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha on the other bank of the Po Chhu river. In these small villages, locals sell their wares in tiny, traditional shops. Visitors can stop here for a quick and authentic view of true Bhutan.  In order to access the suspension bridge from the dzong, one must walk past the King’s palace and the cremation ground. Join the nuns for evening prayer at Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup nunnery: Sangchen Dorji Lhendrub Choling is located above Wolakha on the way to Drolay Goemba which serves as a Shedra (Buddhist College) and meditation center scatter the grassy site, home to a small and friendly community of nuns.

Day 05: Punakha to Phobjikha (3 Hrs)
The road to Phobjikha passes through old town of Wangdue taking us through the black mountain region into Gangtey. The drive also passes through some of the most beautiful forests, water fall, hills, river and villages and Lawala pass before stepping into Phobjikha. Enjoy the most scenic and adventurous drive today with HBT. Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility: This temple is known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that childless couples can visit this temple to pray for better fertility to conceive the child. There are stories and incidences that many visitors dream came true however one must truly need to believe and follow the lama’s instruction. The hike through the lovely villages of Mesina gives truly amazing experience. Enjoy the gentle walks from the road head. Gangtey Gompa: The temple built over hill top, headed by Gangtey Tulku the reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. Annual festival of Gangtey is performed in the temple courtyard every year. This is also the place for black necked crane’s festival held every year on 11-Nov, coinciding with His Majesty’s Fourth King’s Birthday. Gangtey Nature Trail: It is a short and relatively easy trek with several beautiful villages and monasteries en route. It offers beautiful views of the country with mostly gentle, forested slopes. The best time for this trek is between September-May, walk not recommended on rainy days. Farmhouse visit with dinner with locals: This experience is a particularly fun and spontaneous way to connect with the local community and learn about Bhutanese culture and way of living.

Day 06: Phobjikha to Jakar- Bumthang (6 Hrs)
The drive though newly constructed road is quite smooth however some of the stretches are still under maintenance. The drive will pass through abundant natural beauty, spectacular landscapes, rich flora and fauna, breath taking hills and snowcapped mountains and iconic Buddhist monasteries. Enjoy the drive through a region of diverse people with unique dialects, dress, food and lifestyle. Today we will be crossing Trongsa and over two passes up until we reach Bumthang. Chendebji Chorten: Located at 2430m, built in the style of the great Bodhanath Temple of Nepal, was constructed by Tshering Wangchuk son of Yon-Say and the Mahasiddha Zhidag in accordance with the prophecy of the second Gangteng Tulku Tenzin Lekpai Dhundrup in order to subdue harmful demons. Trongsa Dzong: This is the largest Dzong (fortress) in Bhutan, located in the centre of the country. The Dzong is beautifully built on a spur overlooking the gorge of the Mangde Chhu River. The Dzong played very crucial role in the ancient history in protecting Bhutan and its sovereignty. The ruler of Trongsa Dzong was the most powerful leader to form Wangchuk Dynasty in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Trongsa Ta Dzong (Museum): The watch tower was built in 1652 by first Governor of Trongsa. This was built to oversee and safeguard the Trongsa Dzong from any invading forces. Today it houses the Royal Heritage museum. The display in the museum is focused on Buddhist art and Royal memorabilia. Yotongla pass: The pass divides Trongsa and Bumthang districts. This is one of the highest motor-able road pass at the height of 3460m. The pass is covered with mist and prayer flags most of the time. It is worth for a stop for photo break. Stop at yatha wool weaving center: This center is well known for woolen products, most of the yatha products are made from yak hair, sheep wool and other animal’s wool. This is the best place for buying woolen products like (jackets, caps, purse, muffler etc). Explore the Jakar town

Day 07: Jakar – Bumthang Sightseeing
Bumthang is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of its oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries.  It is famous for its brightly coloured distinctive woolen item called Yathra and district formed by four valleys. Jakar Dzong or the “Castle of the White Bird”: Dominates the Chamkhar valley and overlooks the town, 3km 1.2 miles away from Chamkhar town. Jampay Lhakhang: One of the oldest temples built in the country. This is the home of the naked dance that is still performed annually. It is believed that the temple is built in 7^th century by Songtsen Gonpo of Tibet. Kurjey Lhakhang: The site where Guru Padmasambhava left the body imprint on the rock behind the temple. Visit for its artistic works and amazing structure. Kharchu Dratsang Monastery: This is an amazing experience to see monks chanting the mantras. The monastery has become part of an extensive effort to preserve and revitalize Bhutanese culture and heritage. Tamzing Lhakhang: Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, contains paintings of fundamental interest for the history of painting in this region. It is also one of the oldest temples in the valley. Swiss Cheese Farm & Red Panda Brewery: The Swiss Farm is established by Mr. Fritz Maurer. The project introduced brewing, farming machinery and fuel-efficient, smokeless wood stoves to the valley, as well as its first tourist guesthouse in Bumthang. Swiss cheese and Bhutan’s only native beer, Red Panda, is brewed here.

Day 08: Jakar – Ngang Lhakhang (Trek Starts)
Today’s trek route will take us around Chamkhar Chhu, a river rich in trout. After passing Thangbi Lhakhang, a temple built by the first Karma Shamar in 13th century we will enter Ngang Yul or ‘Swan Land” named for the swans that were once common in this part of the valley. Near the center of this area we will find Ngang Lhakhang, the “Swan Temple”. The Ngang Lhakhang was built by, Lama Namkha Samdrup in the spot where his arrow landed. The design of the Lhakhang inspired by a vision he had. Here we will meet our trekking staff. Dinner and overnight stay at camp. Distance: 20 km, Time: 6-7 hours, Camp Altitude: 2800m

Day 09: Ngang Lhakhang – Ugyenchholing
We will begin with a gradual climb to Phephe La pass (3,353m). Follow the trail until the pass takes us through a picturesque forested region. It is recommended that we allow for stops along the way to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. We will stop for the night at Ogyen Choling Manor. This manor houses one of the most interesting museums of Bhutan and visitors will gain a better understanding of the lives of the landed gentry in traditional Bhutanese society. Camp Altitude: 2850m

Day 10: Ugyen Choling – Phokphey
Today’s walk is through bamboos, hemlock and finally up to an alpine forest. The camp is in a meadow at the head of the valley. Distance: 17 km, Time: 5-6 hours, Camp Altitude: 3680m

Day 11: Phokphey – Pemi
Today about three hours of climb, we will reach to Rodong La pass (4,160m). From the pass we, then continue downhill through a gorge, overlooking scenic mountain valleys covered in lush pine forests. The region is rich in folklore concerning spirits and yetis. Near the camp we can see a ruined stone building that once acted as a grain storehouse during the reigns of the first and second king. Distance: 20 km, Time: 6-7 hours, Camp Altitude: 2950m

Day 12: Pemi – Khaine Lakhang
This trail winds through the villages of Ungaar, Bulay, Kulaypang and Gomda before bringing you to Drula village and Khaine Lhakhang. One of the oldest temples in the country, it was built in the mid 7th century by the King Songtshen Gampo of Tibet to subdue demons. Distance: 21 km, Time: 7-8 hours, Camp Altitude: 2010

Day 13: Khaine Lakhang – Tangmachu
From the camp, the trail goes down to a stream and back up to a basic health unit and a community school in Gorsam. Further on, we wil pass a Tibetan-style Umling Mani, built by a lama from Tibet, and a chorten on Zerim La (1,940m). Before reaching the next pass, Tage La (1,760m) we will see Menjabi, a beautiful Bhutanese village with large white houses. The campsite for the night is located South-east of Tage La near Tangmachu High School. Another possibility is to organize transport and drive to Lhuentse, the capital of Lhuentse district. Lhuntese Dzong is considered to be one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. Distance: 18 km, Time: 6-7 hours, Camp Altitude: 1720

Day 14: Tangmachu – Menji
After arriving at Kuri Zampa the trek begins to gradually climb up through paddy fields and villages before bringing you to Chusa. Distance: 16 km, Time: 4-5 hours, Camp Altitude: 1830m

Day 15: Menji – Pemi
Today’s trek has you continue uphill through thick forests overlooking spectacular mountains. The camp is located in a forested area at an altitude of 2,400m. Distance: 20 km, Time: 5-6 hours, Camp Altitude: 2450m

Day 16: Pemi – Taupang
After climbing up to Dongla you will descend through thick evergreen forests until you reach the campsite for the night. Distance: 21 km, Time: 7-8 hours, Camp Altitude: 2450m

Day 17: Taupang – Trashi Yangtse
Today is the longest day of the trek. It is a gradual descent to Trashi Yangtse. As you descend the chirpine and hardwood forests are slowly replaced by oak trees. The final camp of the trek is located in a sub-tropical forested region. Distance: 24 km, Time: 8-9 hours

Day 18: Tashi Yangtse to Trashigang (3 hrs)
Visit the famous Gomphu Kora: Gomphu means “Meditation Cave” and Kora means “Circumambulation”. The name is derived from a cave formed out of a rock-face next to a temple that has been built as a tribute to this sacred site. The biggest attraction of Gomphu Kora is the circumambulation. “Go around Gomphu Kora today, for tomorrow may be too late”, advises a local song that entices devotees to visit Gomphu Kora. Trashigang Dzong: It was built in 1659 to defend against Tibetan invasions. This imposing fortress is strategically situated high atop a spur overlooking the Dangmechu River. Explore the little Tashigang town

Day 19: Trashigang sightseeing
Day excursion to Rangjung Monastery: Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is located in Eastern Bhutan under Trashigang district at Rangjung. The monastery was founded by His Eminence Dungsey Garab Dorje Rinpoche in the year 1989 with few monks and nuns. It has a flourishing community with branches monasteries and retreat centers. Radhi Village: Radhi village is famous for two things, its rice fields and the skill of its weavers. It is often known as the ‘Rice Bowl of the East’ because of its verdant rice fields that supply most of the grain to eastern parts of the country. Lunch with locals at local farm house

Day 20: Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar (6 Hrs)
After our breakfast we will start our drive to Samdrup Jongkhar. The drive is very scenic which passes through, Kanglung, Khaling, Wamrong and Dewathang. On arrival at Khaling we will spent at Khaling textile centre. This is the most famous textile centre of eastern Bhutan. We will also get opportunity to see roadside birds and animals. We will have picnic lunch. Evening, check in to your hotel and relax. Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar, altitude 250m

Day 21: Samdrup Jongkhar to Guwahati (3.5 Hrs) | End of Bhutan Tour
After our breakfast, we will drive to Guwahati airport with lots of Bhutan memories and smile on your face. It will be end of Bhutan trip

Booking Bhutan tour with Heavenly Bhutan Travels is very easy and quick. Tell us if you like this itinerary, possible to amend any time later. You can choose any hotels, add places to see or change duration under this itinerary. We can organize your flight tickets too.

Payments to Bhutan – Your payment with Heavenly Bhutan Travels (HBT) is secure and protected even at the time of crisis like COVID-19. You are guaranteed with swift refunds if required. You can choose to send payment by bank wire or card payment. We have flexible tour booking conditions assuring best trips to Bhutan, click here.

Travel Essential – Click on the names.
Travel Guide of Bhutan. Choose Hotels & Resorts in Bhutan. Vehicles you get to ride in Bhutan. Flights you need to book. Tourist Information Center. Festival dates of Bhutan.

More Bhutan Tour Packages – New Generation Travel Packages for Bhutan. Click on the names.
Luxury Tour Packages. Leisure Tour Packages. Trekking Tours Packages. Walking & Hiking Tours. Photography Tours. Homestay Tours. Honeymoon Tour Packages. Cycling Tours. Festival Tours. Bird Watching Tours. Women Travel Group. Motorcycle Tours. Wellness Travel & Tours. Tour Packages Indians. Tour Packages Bangladeshi. LGBT Holiday Packages. Offbeat Travel. Special Interest Tours. India Nepal Bhutan Tours. Buddhist Pilgrimage Tours. Adventure Safari Tours. Nature Travel Escapes. Special Occasion Holidays. Join Small Group Tours.