Bhutan - Himalayan Monastery Trail

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from II of Ellon on 21/06/2024

2025 Itinerary 

Day 1
Arrive in Thimphu, Capital of Bhutan (Alt: 2300m). On arrival the guide and driver will meet riders and transfer by road to Thimphu for about (1hr). Check in at the Hotel and if time permits, visit the Memorial stupa, built for world peace, and the Buddha statue, the largest seated Buddha Rupa in the world. Overnight at a Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 2
Riders booked for the Thimphu Festival (2 - 14 October) celebrate at the Tashichho Dzong in the capital . Otherwise the following applies: The morning's sightseeing incorporates Simply Bhutan (a living museum) and the Textile Museum exhibiting the works of Bhutanese ladies. Visit the 13th century Changangkha temple and Takin Mini Zoo which holds Bhutan’s national animals. Later drive to Punakha, crossing the Dochula pass (3,100m). The pass offers breathtaking views over the eastern Himalayas and Bhutan's highest peak. En route, the group visit the temple of a 'heavenly crazy' person and temple of fertility. Later visit Punakha Dzong built by in 1638 on the junction of Pho (Father) Chu and Mo (Mother) Chu Rivers. Overnight in the Meri Puensum resort (or similar). (Alt: 1200m - Dist. 70km)

Day 3
Riders booked for the Punakha Festival (8 - 20 March) stay in Punakha for the celebrations. Otherwise the following applies: The group drive to a spot north of Punakha Dzong for a hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel stupa. The stupa was erected as a symbol of peace for Bhutan and the world. The interior of the 4-story stupa is adorned with images and mandalas of the deity, Vajarakilaya, the wrathful form of Buddha whose power can remove obstacles to achieving enlightenment, peace, and happiness. On returning, explore Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's oldest, largest and most striking fortified monasteries, the Punakha Dzong. The monastery holds an important relic over which many wars were fought with the Tibetans, and has a sacred place in the hearts of all Bhutanese.  Overnight in the Meri Puensum resort (or similar). Approximate Altitude: 1200m | Drive Dist: 70km, 1.5hr  

Day 4
After breakfast, set out on a picturesque 4.5hr drive to Bumthang.  The route crosses the Pele La Pass (3,300m), a significant landmark that traditionally marks the boundary between western and central Bhutan. The pass offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and alpine landscapes. Stop for a picnic lunch at the Chendebji Chorten, a 19th-century stupa that is adorned with eyes painted at its four cardinal points. On rreaching Trongsa, the group visit the impressive Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan's largest fortress. Constructed in 1647, the dzong has served as a vital center for both religious and administrative activities and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley. Also visit the Tower Museum with a colletion that provides a rich insight into Bhutan’s monarchy and the lineage of its kings.  Continue the journey to Bumthang, cossing the Yotongla Pass. Along the way, stop at the Chumey Weaving Center, to see the artisans crafting the region's signature woolen textiles using traditional methods. Overnight at a mountain resort. Approximate Altitude: 2750m | Drive Dist: 200km, 4.5hr drive.

Day 5
Enjoy breakfast before departing on a scenic 1.5hr drive to the serene Tang Valley, home to a charming ranch nestled amidst picturesque surroundings. On arrival, check into the simple, cozy farmhouse for an authentic experience of Bhutanese rural life. After meeting the horses and settling in, enjoy a hearty lunch at the farmhouse before embarking on ride to get the feel of the horses and surroundings. The riders will meet the locals and gain insights into the daily lives and customs of rural Bhutan. The tour also includes a visit to Ugyen Choling Palace Museum, an important cultural site that offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s noble history and traditions. Conclude the day soaking in the tranquil beauty of Tang Valley. Overnight Phola Farm House (or similar). Approximate Altitude: 3000m

Day 6
Start the day with breakfast at the farmhouse before setting out on a horseback journey through Tang Valley. The ride leads through a mix of villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, offering a diverse experience of Bhutan's natural beauty. Stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot along the route. After lunch continue riding until reaching the Kunzangdra Monastery. After setting up camp near the village, visit the historic Kunzangdra Monastery, founded in 1488 by the famous saint Pemalingpa. The monastery is perched on a cliff and houses beautiful shrines and relics. Spend the night under the stars surrounded by the tranquility of the Bhutanese countryside. Overnight in tents. Approximate Altitude: 3500 M | Ride Dist: 5-6 Hours

Day 7
Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a ride through dense forests and across hillsides on the way to the next campsite near Padselling Monastery. On arrival, explore the monastery, located atop a mountain, and a serene place of worship. There are plenty of excellent photo opportunities, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and fascinating sights while meandering through the village and temple. Settle into the campsite for the night. Approximate Altitude: 3770m | Ride Dist: 6hr

Day 8
Start the day with a relaxing ride through forests and village roads. The day's route is less challenging, allowing riders to fully appreciate the beauty of the Bhutanese countryside. Stop for a visit to Dorjibi village to interact with the local farmers and learn about traditional Bhutanese farming practices. Upon arrival, check into the hotel, freshen up and relax before embarking on the afternoon's explorations.
Riders booked for the Ura Yakchoe Festival (9 - 17 May) stay in the Ura valley area for the celebrations. Otherwise the following applies: The afternoon's exploration includes a visit to Jambay Lhakhang. Believed to have been built in the 7th century, Kurjey Temple, is where GuruRinpoche, who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated, leaving an imprint (kurjey) of his body on a rock and Kharchu Dratsang. Visit the large monastic school to observe the monks engaging in a debate session. Overnight at a mountain resort (or similar). Approximate Altitude: 2750m | Ride Dist: 4-5hr.

Day 9
The day's journey takes riders through peaceful local villages  and further chances to meet the locals and experience rural Bhutan, and a visit to the village temple. More advanced riders can enjoy a trot with the group leader while the less experienced

can maintain a leisurely pace. Arrive at the accommodation in Chokhortey and unwind in the comfortable farmhouse. Try a hot stone bath to relax and rejuvenate the body. Overnight in an Alpine farmhouse. Approximate Altitude: 2900m | Ride Dist: 5-6hr

Day 10
After breakfast, head out on a ride along mountain trails, crossing a 3000m pass. The journey back to the stables offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to spot local wildlife. Advanced riders can enjoy trotting along certain sections of the trail, while beginners can continue at a pace comfortable to them. On returning to the stables, help to groom and take care of the horses, as a farewell gesture of gratitude for their hard work. Afterward, drive to Jakar, the main town in Bumthang, for an overnight stay. Explore Jakar at  leisure or relax at the Hotel. Approximate Altitude: 2750m | Ride Dist: 5-6hr.

Day 11
Enjoy breakfast before driving to the domestic airport for the flight to Paro. upon arrival, visit the Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), an impressive fortress-monastery overlooking the Paro Valley. This dzong is not only a significant religious and administrative center but also the location where scenes from Bernardo Bertolucci’s film "Little Buddha" were shot. The dzong's massive walls and intricate woodwork make it a prime example of traditional Bhutanese architecture.  Next, visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the watchtower (Ta Dzong) of the Paro Dzong. The museum offers a fascinating collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and exhibits on the country's natural history and cultural heritage. Overnight at the Tashi Namgay Resort (or similar). Approximate Altitude: 2200m | Flight Dist: 30 minutes.

Day 12
This last day is dedicated to exploring one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks: Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). Perched on the edge of a cliff 900m above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in the 8th century. The hike to the monastery is challenging but immensely rewarding, offering breathtaking views along the way.  For the less energetic, there is the option to hike halfway to the Taktsang Cafeteria, which offers a stunning viewpoint of the monastery. Relax while taking in the majestic sight of the Tiger's Nest. After descending, unwind with a traditional hot stone bath at a local farmhouse. This unique experience, where stones heated over a fire are placed in water to warm it, is believed to have therapeutic benefits, especially after a long hike.  In the afternoon, if time allows, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples, believed to date back to the 7th century. The group can also visit Dungtse Lhakhang, a unique temple that features a rare three-story chorten-like design, offering insights into Buddhist iconography and local mythology.

Day 13
The group will be transferred to the airport according to departing flights, arriving 3hrs ahead of time.
 

Read more about riding this ride in our blog article, Rachel’s trip to Bhutan

Non-riders and other activities:
There are plenty of other things to get involved in in and around the area, including trekking, bird watching, mountain biking, festivals, wildlife sanctuaries, rock climbing and rafting.

The price for this trail is based on 6 riders for this trail, although it will still operate for 2 or more riders for a small group supplement, payable per person. Should more riders join the trail then the small group supplement will be refunded.

Private departures are possible for this trail, please enquire.

FESTIVALS 2025:
Punakha Festival (Punakha Tshechu): Held in the courtyard of Punakha Dzong, this festival has evolved from the annual Drupchen (meditation retreat) to a six-day celebration, combining three days of Drupchen and three days of Tshechu. A key highlight is the unfurling of the thongdrol (large tapestry) of Guru Rinpoche, attracting crowds for prayers and entertainment. The 2025 festival is scheduled for 9–11 March 2025.

Ura Yakchoe: Celebrated in the Ura Valley, this festival is marked by vibrant mask dances and the display of a sacred relic, believed to bring blessings. The festival provides a deep connection to Bhutan's cultural and spiritual traditions, with its serene valley setting enhancing the experience. The 2025 festival is scheduled for May 9-13 May 2025.

Thimphu Festival (Thimphu Tshechu): First introduced in 1867 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay, this festival features a mix of traditional monk dances and colorful mask dances introduced later by the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It begins with the Thimphu Drubchen at Tashichho Dzong, focusing on prayers to deities like Pelden Lhamo. The Tshechu includes dances such as the Guru Tshengye (Eight Manifestations of Guru) and Shaw Shachi (Dance of the Stags), alongside theatrical performances promoting social awareness. The 2025 festival is scheduled for 2-4 Oct 2025

Jakar Festival: The Jakar Festival, held annually in the historic Jakar Dzong in Bhutan’s Bumthang Valley, is a vibrant celebration of Buddhist traditions and artistic heritage. It features sacred Cham mask dances, symbolizing Buddhist teachings and stories of Guru Rinpoche. The festival also serves as a social gathering, where locals in traditional attire come together to celebrate, pray, and strengthen communal bonds. The 2025 festival is scheduled for 29 Oct-1 Nov 25.

Non-riders and other activities:
There are plenty of other things to get involved in in and around the area, including trekking, bird watching, mountain biking, festivals, wildlife sanctuaries, rock climbing and rafting.

The price for this trail is based on 6 riders for this trail, although it will still operate for 2 or more riders for a small group supplement, payable per person. Should more riders join the trail then the small group supplement will be refunded.

Private departures are possible for this trail, please enquire.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

The horses used on this ride are a sturdy local breed known as Yueta, between 12hh and 15hh. They are mild tempered and well adapted to trekking across mountainous terrain. Due to the small stature of the horses there is a strict weight limit of 90kg for this ride. The riding is mostly at a walk or trot, although there may be opportunities to canter in the flatter valleys. The terrain can be quite steep and rocky in places, riders should be prepared to dismount and walk at times. There is also riding over small hills and across meadow.

Riders need to be able to walk, trot and canter, and to be able to mount/dismount unaided. Riders should be prepared to dismount and walk alongside their horses when the terrain is particularly steep or rocky. Riders should have a good level of general fitness. The minimum age for this ride is 12 years.
Non-riders can hike and have their luggage transported on horses.

The weight limit for this ride is 198 lb/90 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

The accommodation on this ride is a mix of hotels (all at 3* level), farm houses, monasteries and camping. Hotels are twin/double rooms with a private bathroom. Single and double tents are available for the camping nights - please let us know in advance if you would like a single tent. There will be basic bathroom and shower facilities available on camping nights. When staying in farm houses and monasteries, riders may be sharing rooms with more than 1 other person depending on the space available and number in the group. There will be basic bathroom facilities available.

When staying in hotels, breakfast and dinner will be taken in the hotel or a local restaurant. During the riding trail meals will be prepared by the support team and taken 'home-style'. Picnic lunches will be carried in saddlebags, and you will stop in a scenic place each day around noon for lunch. Meals will be a variety of Bhutanese, Chinese, Indian and continental cuisine including: soup, salad, rice, butter naan, paneer, bhidi masala, mutter paneer, spring rolls, fried dal, chow mein, spaghetti, squash, noodles.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. If visas are required the conditions for these can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate on request. All visitors to Bhutan (except Indian nationals) must obtain visa clearance from an authorized tour operator in Bhutan in advance of their arrival. Visas are issued on arrival but you must apply in advance and receive visa approval before you travel. Keep a photocopy of your passport visa pages and flight ticket separate from the originals when travelling. The Bhutanese Department of Tourism sets a non-negotiable minimum daily tariff for all visitors to Bhutan. The rate includes all accommodations, all meals, transportation, services of licensed guides and porters, and cultural programs where and when available. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Bhutan. Britain is represented in Bhutan by an Honorary Consul. The nearest consular office is British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata. Please note there are also restrictions on where visitors may enter or leave Bhutan. If you are flying via India, it is recommended for you to carry an Indian E-Visa or Visa otherwise you will be unable to leave the airport. You can apply for this online for a small cost at the following website, www.indianvisaonline.gov.in. Make sure you apply for the correct E-Visa or Visa when travelling via India. Bhutanese Honorary Consulate in London 2 Windacres Warren Road, Guildford GU1 2HG Phone: (+44) 1 483 538 189 Email: rutland.michael@gmail.com Royal Bhutan's Embassy in USA Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Bhutan to the UN, 763 United Nations Plaza(1st Ave.) New York, N.Y.10017 Phone: (212) 682-2268/682-2312/682-2371/682-2752 Fax: (212) 661-0551 Bhutanese Honorary Consulate in Toronto 146 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1C2 Phone: (+1) (416) 960 3552 Fax: (+1) (416) 960 9506

The climate of Bhutan cannot be generalized because of its mountainous landscape. Bhutan lies at the same latitude as New Delhi, Cairo and Miami, so one may think it may be hot, and to some its location in the Himalayas suggest Bhutan will be cold. However, it experiences very pleasant weather throughout the year. With the exception of southern regions that border the plains of India, and the northern frontier with Tibet, most people experience a pleasant temperate climate with moderate changes between winter and summer.
Altitude is one notable factor that determines the weather especially for the places of interest like Thimphu, Paro Punakha, Wandgi, and Bumthang. The weather can vary due to changes in elevation. For instance, Punakha and Wangdue (1300m) is warmer than Thimphu (2300) and Bumthang (2580 m) is colder than both, which is due to variation in altitude.
Another factor that can influence the weather in Bhutan is the seasonal cycle. As a whole the climatic conditions varies from sub-tropical in south to the Alpine in the north. Climatic conditions in Bhutan can be broadly categorise into four:

Spring
From March to June, the southern regions experience typical sub tropical weather with hot and humid conditions. Thimphu, Paro, and Bumthang Valley have warmer days with cool nights and clear blue sky. It is noticeably warmer in Punakha & Wangdi Valley. High altitude paths are at their most accessible in this time. Rhododendron and wild flower blooms surrounds the trails especially at higher elevation. This is also the best time to see wildlife as they come out from hibernation after a long cold winter.

Monsoon Season
July marks the advent of monsoon season, which lasts until the beginning of September, bringing much relief and a boon to farmers for the cultivation of their seasonal crops. The rain in the valleys is moderate, with the bulk falling in the southern belt. It carpets the valley and surrounding vegetation with greenery. There is no trekking during the monsoon as the trails get wet, slippery and muddy.

Autumn
From the tail end of September until November the weather slowly stabilizes after the monsoon. The sky becomes clearer with warm autumn sun and continues offering spectacular views of far off peaks.
These months are considered to be the best time for trekking, with accessible high passes and stable temperature. It can get hot during the day so wearing sunscreen is recommended.

Winter
From December until February, it’s the time of year when nights tend to get cold with days being warm with bright sun. Temperatures can drop to -5 degrees at night so bring a suitable sleeping bag. Blue winter skies serve a striking background to the snow-capped peaks. The higher passes experience snow but the valleys receive only an occasional light dusting. The possibility of heavy snow remains only if there is a sudden and dramatic change in temperature.

Visit your health professional at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Country specific information and advice is published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre on the TravelHealthPro website and by NHS (Scotland) on the fitfortravel website. Useful information and advice about healthcare abroad is also available on the NHS Choices website.

There is a reasonably well equipped hospital in the capital, Thimphu, with modern diagnostic facilities such as ultrasound, MRI and CT Scan. Outside Thimphu, Bhutanese hospitals provide only basic health care.

You may find the high mountain altitudes demanding. Familiarise yourself with the dangers of altitude sickness especially if you are trekking in remote areas.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, emergency helicopter evacuation to India and repatriation.

You may find the high mountain altitudes demanding. Familiarise yourself with the dangers of altitude sickness especially if you are trekking in remote areas. Ensure you have medication for altitude sickness in your first aid kit before travelling. You will not be going to extreme altitudes on this ride, however all guests should be aware of the symptoms especially if you are new to the environment. For more information please visit https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/26/altitude-illness#undefined

In Bhutan the power sockets are of type D, F and G. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

When on the horse riding portion of the tour there will be limited or no electricity, phone signal or WiFi. Take spare batteries or a powerpack to recharge your camera. Spare memory cards are also a good idea!. If you want to bring a GoPro please be advised that you will have to have permission from all other guests and guides that they are willing to be filmed.

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries, casual clothes, and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:

ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
- Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards (some locations can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
- Riding boots designed for riding and walking
- Riding gloves
- Chaps
- At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best
- Long sleeved shirts
- Lightweight waterproof
- Water bottle
- Mobile phone
- Head torch for camping nights
- Day pack for sight-seeing trips
- Light-weight, loose fitting trousers for visiting temples/dzongs
- Druk Asia flight ticket (or alternative Bhutanese airline)
- Copies of passport (identification page) and travel insurance

Generally, clothing should correspond with the average weather conditions. However, it is difficult to recommend one specific set of clothing, the key to dressing is layering so that you can adapt to changing weather condition. As the day progresses and gets warmer, you can take layers off and put them in your day pack. The clothes you bring should wash well in cold water and dry quickly. Bring loose, comfortable clothes and comfortable walking shoes. We recommend bringing well broken trekking boots with ankle support if your trip includes walking.
Shorts that are very short are not always appropriate in Asian countries for men or women. Try wearing light-weight, loose fitting travel trousers. Formal clothing is not necessary for travels in this region but you will need to wear long pants and long sleeves/coloured T-shirts when you visit Temples or Dzongs.

Baggage allowance on Druk Air is 30 Kilograms (2 piece max) per passenger to check-in and one hand-carry (cabin bag) that fits into overhead luggage compartment. Usually Laptops and cameras may be allowed to carry on in addition to cabin baggage. Business class passengers are permitted additional 10 Kilograms to check-in. Excess baggage is charged on a basis of kilograms and so the rates vary by sector and times.

13d /12n programme with 6 riding days with fixed departures and other dates on request during the year.

2025: 8 - 20 March (with Punakha Festival); 5 - 17 May (with Ura Yakchoe); 2 - 14 October (with Thimphu Festival); 23 Oct - 4 Nov (with Jakar Festival)
Other dates can be requested throughout the year on request.

Single rooms only available in hotels (single supplement applies), single tents available with no extra charge. Please enquire.

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LONELY PLANET – BHUTAN (COUNTRY GUIDE) BY LINDSAY BROWN.

BHUTAN: HIMALAYAN MOUNTAIN KINGDOM, FIFTH EDITION (ODYSSEY ILLUSTRATED GUIDE) BY FRANCOISE POMMARET.

BEYOND THE SKY AND THE EARTH BY JAMIE ZEPPA

BHUTAN: A TREKKER’S GUIDE (CICERONE GUIDE)

DREAM OF PEACEFUL DRAGON: A JOURNEY THROUGH BHUTAN BY KATIE HICKMAN

BUTTER TEA AT SUNRISE: A YEAR IN THE BHUTAN HIMALAYAS BY BRITTA DAS

BIRDS OF BHUTAN BY CAROL INSKIPP • FOOTPRINT – BHUTAN (FOOTPRINT BHUTAN HANDBOOK) BY GYURME DORJEE

The great geographical and climatic diversity of Bhutan results in an outstanding range of biodiversity and ecosystems.
The tiger, one-horned rhino, golden langur, clouded leopard, hispid hare and the sloth bear live in the lush tropical lowland and hardwood forests in the south. In the temperate zone, grey langur, tiger, common leopard, goral and serow are found in mixed conifer, broadleaf and pine forests. Fruit bearing trees and bamboo provide habitat for the Himalayan black bear, red panda, squirrel, sambar, wild pig and barking deer. The alpine habitats of the great Himalayan range in the north are home to the snow leopard, blue sheep, marmot, Tibetan wolf, antelope and Himalayan musk deer.
Flora and birds abound with more than 770 species of bird and 5,400 species of plants known to occur throughout the kingdom. Many of these species are endangered or elusive, and sightings are extremely rare. Conservation projects are attempting to protect and improve populations which are threatened, please help by not leaving any kind of litter, and avoid disturbing or damaging the environment as you pass through.

Although sleeping bags are available ($35 cleaning charge applies), it is recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.