Royal Heritage Trekking

The trek starts from Jakar Dzong before ascending towards Kikila pass (3948m). The Lunch spot (Seou Zheysa) is 4 ½ hrs walk from Wangdichholing Palace. This was the actual lunch spot used by the Royal family. The campsite (Makhagthang) on the bank of Duegang Chu is 3 hrs downhill from Kikila and stands at an elevation of 2908m. It is about .5km away from Domkhar Tashichholing Palace, formerly the summer residence of the second king Jigme Wangchuck who had it constructed in 1937. The Palace is a fine example of authentic Bhutanese architecture. Located on a gentle slope, the Palace overlooks the villages of Chummy and its quaint landscape and fields. Overnight at the camp.

What's Included?

• Airport Transfers
• Bhutan Visa
• Transportation
• English speaking guide
• All meals
• Accommodation
• Entrance fees
• Trekking permits
• All local taxes

Day 1 - Jakar Dzong - Domkhar (7-8hrs) Trek begins

Morning visit historical sites including Wangdichholing Palace, built by Trongsa Penlop Jigme Namgyel in 1857 and later restored by his son, the first king Ugyen Wangchuck. It was the first palace to be built in Bhutan. The Palace served as the summer residence of the second King, whilst the third king spent much of his youth there. Located in the valley beside the Chamkhar River, the Palace presents the true aesthetic Bhutanese architecture. The trek starts from Jakar Dzong before ascending towards Kikila pass (3948m). The Lunch spot (Seou Zheysa) is 4 ½ hrs walk from Wangdichholing Palace. This was the actual lunch spot used by the Royal family. The campsite (Makhagthang) on the bank of Duegang Chu is 3 hrs downhill from Kikila and stands at an elevation of 2908m. It is about .5km away from Domkhar Tashichholing Palace, formerly the summer residence of the second king Jigme Wangchuck who had it constructed in 1937. The Palace is a fine example of authentic Bhutanese architecture. Located on a gentle slope, the Palace overlooks the villages of Chummy and its quaint landscape and fields. Overnight at the camp.

Day 2 - Domkhar to Jamsapang (5-6 hrs)

The hike begins with the crossing of the Duegang chu. The trail is mostly uphill and after climbing for about 3.5 hrs you reach a place called Dungmai Jab at an altitude of 3678m which can be used as the lunch spot. The campsite (Jamsapang) is about 2 hrs ascend from the lunch spot and stands at an elevation of 4019m. Tungli La (pass) is just a few minutes away from the campsite. Overnight at the camp.

Day 3 - Jamsapang - Bjobshisa (5 hrs)

The day begins with a slight ascend towards Tungli La which is about 1 hr walk away from the campsite. One can enjoy the majestic view on the snow peaked Black Mountains sandwiched between Bhutan’s southern foothills at the left and the greater Himalayan range at the right. Tungli La stands at an elevation of 4039m from where the trail descends and takes about 2 hrs to reach the lunch spot. Another 2 hrs brings you to the third campsite, Bjobshisa. During the summer/monsoon season, this place is used by the local cattle herders. Overnight at the camp.

Day 4 - Bjobshisa - Kuenga Rabten Palace (Trek Ends)

The trail from Jobshisa descends on its way to Kuenga Rabten Palace. It takes about 4hrs from the campsite and stands at an elevation of 1774m. Constructed in 1928, Kuenga Rabten Palace is the former winter residence of the second king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Located on a slope overlooking the mighty Mangdi River, Kuenga Rabten palace is surrounded by stone walls with spy-holes. A gallery runs around the courtyard on all four sides. The three-storey central tower (Utse) features finely decorated woodwork, as well as two Lhakhang (temples). Singye Lhakhang contains images of Shakyamuni Buddha and the Twenty-one Aspects of Tara, whilst Kagyup Lhakhang houses part of the National Library of Bhutan, to which the Palace is presently affiliated. There is an ideal camping ground at the back of the palace overlooking the valley and Mangdi River. Overnight at the camp.

Day 5 - Trongsa - Punakha

Depart for Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the 'Unifier of Bhutan' as predicted by the great Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). It is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers) and is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. The Punakha Dzong also features "The Coronation Room". It was here that the Trongsa Penlop Ugyen Wangchuck was presented with the insignia of Knight of Commander by the British and also the location where in 1907 the Bhutanese people unanimously crowned Sir Ugyen Wangchuck as the first king of Bhutan and thus started the monarchy system. He was enthroned in the coronation room on 17th December, 1907. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha.

Day 6 - Punakha/Wangduephodrang - Paro

After breakfast, drive to Wangduephodrang to explore this bustling market town and visit Wangduephodrang Dzong. Built in 1639 the strategically located Dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers. Return to Punakha to enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenley who is also known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He taught the people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and most childless couples go to his temple for blessing. Commence the drive back to Paro, stopping in Thimphu on the way where you will enjoy lunch and afterwards proceed to Paro. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7 - Depart Paro

After breakfast, according to your flight schedule we will drive you to the airport. End of our services

Exclusions

• International air tickets
• Tips
• Travel Insurance
• Laundry service
• Beverages
• Telephone bills
• Other extras not specified