Bumthang Owl Trek

  • 6 Days / 5 Nights

The Bumthang Owl Trek is a 3-day trek that offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the Bumthang region, known as Bhutan’s cultural heartland. This moderate trek is suitable for hikers who want to experience the natural beauty of Bhutan without the strenuous demands of high-altitude trekking. The route takes you through dense forests, remote villages, and alpine meadows, with panoramic views of Bhutan’s rugged mountains. Named after the distinct sounds of owls often heard along the trail, the trek provides both cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Highlights:

  • Ideal for trekkers seeking a moderate trek with cultural insights.
  • Hike through pristine forests of pine, bamboo, and rhododendron.
  • Visit ancient monasteries, temples, and traditional villages.
  • Experience the sacred atmosphere of Bumthang’s spiritual sites.
  • Stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Bumthang Valley.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where our team will welcome you. After hotel check-in, take the rest of the day to relax or explore Paro’s town. For an early start, consider a visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong or the National Museum.


 

Day 2: Paro Sightseeing and Flight/Drive to Bumthang

Spend the morning visiting the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) perched on a cliff. After lunch, transfer to Bumthang via a domestic flight or scenic overland drive through Bhutan’s lush valleys. Upon arrival in Bumthang, settle into your hotel and prepare for the trek.


 

Day 3: Start of Bumthang Owl Trek: Dhur Village to Schonath

After breakfast, drive to Dhur Village, the trek’s starting point. Begin trekking through lush blue pine forests, bamboo groves, and rhododendron bushes, ascending to reach Schonath, a peaceful yak herder’s camp where owls can often be heard at night.

  • Distance: 8 km
  • Altitude: 3,450 m
  • Overnight: Camping

 

Day 4: Schonath to Drangela Pass and Kitiphu Ridge

Today, trek through dense forests and climb toward Drangela Pass (3,600 m), where spectacular views of the Bumthang Valley and Mount Gangkar Puensum await. Continue along Kitiphu Ridge, a high-altitude area with sweeping views and pristine nature.

  • Distance: 10 km
  • Altitude: 3,870 m
  • Overnight: Camping

 

Day 5: Kitiphu Ridge to Tharpaling Monastery and Bumthang Valley

Begin your descent through beautiful landscapes, arriving at Tharpaling Monastery, a significant Buddhist site. After exploring the monastery, continue to the valley floor and return to Bumthang for a night of rest and relaxation.

  • Distance: 12 km
  • Altitude: 2,800 m
  • Overnight: Camping

 

Day 6: Return from Bumthang to Paro

Take a domestic flight or scenic drive back to Paro, where you can relax or enjoy some final sightseeing. Consider visiting Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, or exploring Paro’s local markets.


 

Day 6: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your adventure.