Salt Route Trek Samdrup Jongkhar

Salt Route Trek in Samdrup Jongkhar

Punakha Dzong, Punakha

This is 20 days Bhutan tour package combined with 7 days ancient salt route trek in Bhutan. For booking ancient salt route trek in Bhutan, contact Heavenly Bhutan. The Term “salt trek route” is derived from the purpose it served prior to the construction of the national highway from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar. The people of the Eastern Dzongkhags used to make voyages via this route to take salt and silk from the border town of Samdrup Jongkhar. This 8 day trek will take you through pristine broadleaved and pine forests with spectacular views of villages and mountains amidst the clouds. Book Salt Route Trek Samdrup Jongkhar with Heavenly Bhutan. Salt Route Trek Samdrup Jongkhar. 7 Days Trek in Eastern Bhutan. 

Day 01: Arrival in Guwahati to Samdrup Jongkhar (3.5 Hrs)
Drive from Guwahati Airport to Samdrup Jongkhar. Meet the locals: You will be able to meet many locals and you can explore the small Samdrup Jongkhar town. Relax in the hotel: In the evening, relax in the hotel and prepare yourself for next day trek.

Day 02: Samdrup Jongkhar to Nelang (750 mtrs)
Second day of our trip begins with a scenic drive to Nelang which takes about two hours. As the drive is short and easy, you can have a sightseeing tour in Samdrup Jongkhar before beginning your journey to Nelang. Explore the border town of Samdrup Jongkhar town as well as you can go across the border to the Indian town of Mela Bazar. Like any other border town all essential food items and garments are readily available. If you are keen birder, we will lead you around for short introductory birding through the dominating tropical jungles of broad-leaf evergreen forest with some fertile terraced fields and through the town areas. After lunch in the town, your drive takes you to Nelang near Deothang. The drive takes you through hardwoods such as teak, sal, sisoo and bamboo forest. Distance: 2 hours, Time: 2 hours, Camp Altitude: m

Day 03: Nelang to Radingphu (686M)
The actual trek starts from Nelang downhill for about 45minutes till we reach the Duri river formed as a result of three streams namely Phudungri, Manchuri, Morongri. Once we reach Duri, the trek follows the river on a straight stretch for about two hours and will halt at Duktsiri for lunch. One of the significant aspects of this stretch is trekkers have to criss-cross Duri seven times on traditional log bridges until we reach Dutktseri which is the actual designated lunch Point. After lunch the trek follows Duri River for another two hours here again the visitors will have to criss-cross the river six times on traditional log bridges before reaching Radingphu which is a perfect site to halt for the night. Radingphu is a vast flat area which can accommodate almost sixty to eighty tents with water facilities readily available. This is an ideal place for visitors who are interested in swimming and taking a splash in the river. Note: It is very important to carry your own water from as there is no water on this stretch. Distance: 16 km, Time: 4-5 hours, Camp Altitude: 2,720m

Day 04: Rangdingphu (686M) to Mongling (2218M)
From the base camp at Rangdingphu, there is a steep 3 hour climb to reach Dotak where the visitors can halt for lunch.. Dotak is situated on the border between Pemagatshel and Samdrup Jongkhar. After lunch the trek follows a steep climb for another two hours until we reach Mongling. On the way there is a place called zerim which is a flat grassy land shrouded by broad leaved trees. From Zerim we will be treated to a beautiful bird’s eye view of Deothang valley. From Zerim, the trek leads to a slow climb for about one hour from where the trail follows a straight stretch until we reach Regonpo on the base of Yonglaphu. There is a small spring at close proximity to Regonpo. From Regonpo the trek takes a straight stretch till we reach Mongling on the Tshelingkhor-Pemagatsel highway, which is an ideal location to rest for the night. Water is readily available at Mongling. If the visitors wish to continue onwards and travel to Demrizam for the night halt, they can drive via the farm road. It is an hour drive from Mongling to Demrizam. Time: 5 hours

Day 05: Mongling (2218M) to Demrizam (1191M)
On the following day, we pass by several farm-roads and villages. From Mongling you get a beautiful bird’s eye view of some part of Pema Gatshel and Dewathang. Enroute if you are interested you can stop to visit some of the historical temples and monasteries adorned by the local people to uphold their worship and faith. The Kheri Goempa monastery is an hour walk. Another historical site enroute is the Yongla Goempa temple, which is an important temple in the region and the temple upholds the annual Tshechu (festival) presided by Yongla Lam. Yongla Gonpa observes its annual religious ceremony known as Jali Phurba presided over by Yongla Lama (Abode of Yongla). The religious ceremony is accompanied by mask dances and folk dances performed by both monks and laymen. The other religious site to visit is the Jangchub Chorten constructed by Rangshikhar Lama. During the religious festival variety of mask dances and folk dances were entertained to the gathering local people, who come to witness the religious mask dance and receive blessing. We stay overnight at Demri Zam which used to be the night stop for traders. The Camp site at Demri Zam has been cleared properly and water facilities are readily available. Water is readily available and the plentiful river provides an ideal place to enjoy swimming and fishing. Fishing however requires permits that your travel operators can arrange for you. It is necessary for trekkers to carry your fishing gear along with you and hiring of the equipment is not readily available in Bhutan. Thus, we would like you to inform us prior to this trek so we could do the necessary arrangement.

Day 06: Demri Zam (1191M) to Denchung ((1231M)
Demrizam was traditionally where traders stopped to rest for the night in the past. Water is readily available and the river provides an ideal place to enjoy swimming and fishing. Fishing however requires permits that your travel operators can arrange for you. It will be necessary for trekkers to carry their own water as there is no water on this stretch of the trek. The Camp site at Demri Zam has been cleared properly and water facilities are readily available. The next day the trek ascends in a slow climb until we reach Tsatshi Danri for the lunch break. After lunch we will begin a steep descent to reach the Tonglingdrang Suspension Bridge. From here on it is a gradual ascent and straight stretch to Denchung by the side of the Khaling River where we will camp for the night. The Denchung Campsite has been properly cleared but water should be collected from the nearby river approximately 100meters away.

Day 07: Denchung (1231M) to Cheya (1442 M)
From Denchung the trek follows the Khaling River for a little more than two hours where we reach Liza for lunch. After lunch the trek follows a steep ascent through beautiful pine forests until we reach Cheya. The stretch from Denchung to Cheya will probably be the most difficult section of the trek as the path is a steep climb. The trail takes you through rich forest of blue pine and other broad-leaved forest. The campsite at Cheya is very beautiful near the Cheya Tsho (lake) where water is also readily available.

Day 08: Cheya (1442 M) to Trashigang
The last day of the trek will be from Cheya to Trashigang. There are two options: visitors can either ride to Trasghigang form Cheya via Khengthogmani or they can trek from Cheya to Khegthnogmani and take a ride from Khentongmani. Since the trek follows the farm road it is advisable that the vehicles move to Cheya Tsho for boarding of the visitors. Overnight in Trashigang, altitude 1600m.

Day 09: Tashi Yangtse excursion
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. See iron chain bridge built by Dupthop Thongthong Gyelpo in 15th century. Explore the tiny town of Tashi Yangtse & Meeting with experts from eastern wooden products

Day 10: Trashigang to Mongar (4 Hrs)
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. We will stop at Korila for a short break offering good wishes and hosting a prayer flag. Mongar Dzong: Although more recently built (1930), it was constructed the same way as all earlier dzongs, without plans or nails. Mongar Town: Like many other settlements in Eastern Bhutan, Mongar town is situated atop a hill rather than within a valley. This town is considered the main trade and travel hub of Eastern Bhutan and most travellers and merchants active in the east pass through here often spending the night at one of the local hotels.

Day 11: Mongar-Lhuntse excursion
Take an excursion to Lhuentse: In the northeastern corner of Bhutan lies the ancient region of Kurtoe or Lhuntse as it is known today. It is the ancestral home of our Kings and hosts several of the sacred sites of pilgrimage in the country. It is located 77km from Mongar (3 hours’ drive) and is one of the most isolated districts in Bhutan. Visit to 17th century Lhuentse Dzong: This mighty fortress, popularly known as Lhundub Rinchentse sits upon a hill overlooking the Kurichu River.

Day 12: Mongar to Bumthang (6-7 Hrs)
Lingmethang: Lingmethang is a small town in eastern Bhutan. It is located in Mongar District, to the west of Mongar and close to the town of Gyalpozhing. It is one of the hot places in Bhutan. Thrumshingla national park: Situated at the very heart of the country and covering 768 sq. km, Thrumshingla National was officially opened in July 1998. Ura village: Ura is one of oldest villages of Bhutan located at an elevation of 3100m. You can stroll around Ura village and hop into few friendly villager’s home for tea and chit-chat. The people here still practice semi-nomadic lifestyle herding yaks and sheep. Burning Lake: The most scared lake of the country and is believed to be a wish fulfilling lake, one must visit while in Bumthang.

Day 13: 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 14: Bumthang to Phobjikha (7 Hrs)
Starting early from Bumthang will give us more time on roads to enjoy some of the best view points and passes. The journey will pass through Yotongla, Trongsa, Chendebji and Pelala before arriving in Phobjikha the valley of Black Necked Cranes and rhododendron. 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). 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 15: Phobjikha to Punakha (3 Hrs)
As we say good bye to the Asian Switzerland, we will take the journey to Punakha crossing over Lawala & Wangdue. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of the Himalayas. The road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan. 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. 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.

Day 16: Punakha to Thimphu (2.5 Hrs)
We will take our journey back to Thimphu crossing over Dochula. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of the Himalayas from Dochula. 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. 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. 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 the weekend market (Thu-Sun): An interesting well organized permanent set of stalls built for vegetable vendors across the country. It’s open from Wednesday to Monday and closed on Tuesdays. One can find wide range of local vegetables and fruits. Other side of the river is place for indigenous goods and handicrafts section, where locally produced goods, including religious objects, cloth, baskets and hats etc from various minority groups are sold here. These shops are open from Friday to Sunday only. 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. 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 17: 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.

Day 18: Thimphu to Paro (1.5 Hrs)
We will start the journey to Paro up until Chuzom and further to Paro. 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. Kyichu Lhakhang: Temple considered sacred Jewel of Bhutan was established by the Buddhist King Songstsen Gampo of Tibet to overcome the giant ogress that laid across Tibet and Himalayas preventing the spread of Buddhism. The king is believed to have built the temple at the left foot of the enormous ogress. Kichu Lhakhang was among 12 temples in Bhutan out of 108 temples said to have been constructed over single night. Kichu Lhakhang was initially small in size however later, the temple expanded both in grandeur and size to its form that we see today. 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 19: Paro Sightseeing
This picturesque region in the kingdom is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley. Paro has more of historical sites, high-end tourist resort and many souvenir shops for shopping including world famous Takstang. 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. Hot stone bath with dinner at the farmhouse: Hot stone bath is very unique which offers great medicinal values. In most cases, the bathtub is made of wood, placed on a ground level in quiet hut for the privacy. A couple can get into one bathtub to soak. Enjoy the great ancient techniques of curing body aches, joint pains and harness many other values. This is on additional cost check with guide/driver.

Day 20: End of the Tour
Departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan

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