Bhutan Cultural Tour with 3 Days Chelela Trek 8 Days

Trip Facts

  • Duration 8 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Destination Bhutan
  • Transportation Private Comfortable Transportation
  • Activity Trekking and Hiking, Cultural and Historical Tours
  • Best Season Feb - May and Sept- Dec
  • Group Size Min 2, Max 16 People
  • Trip Start/End Paro, Bhutan
  • Max Altitude 3,988m/13,085ft

 

Bhutan Cultural Tour with 3 Days Chelela Trek Overview

Get familiar with Bhutan's unique culture and experience its fantastic landscape with 3 days of excellent Chelela trek.

Bhutan Cultural Tour with 3 Days Chelela Trek is an excellent combination of a short cultural exploration with a three days excursion through the impressive landscape. It offers the major cultural sites in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, which are globally renowned destinations to explore cultural facts and scenarios. Three-day hiking enriches your idea about the country of Dragon, with the enticing mountain landscape and the breathtaking Himalayan sceneries.

 

Arriving at Paro, the 8 days Bhutan Cultural tour with three days of Chelela Trek embarks. The country is loaded with cultural jewels, ancient monasteries, Dzongs, and temples. The hospitable people who always look so happy are another facet of this country. Exploring around Kichu Lhakhang and the nearby site Rimpung Dzong, once tumble with this country's fascination. The Tiger's Nest is one of the most famous sights in Bhutan, which is accessible with a hike.

 

The three days Chele La Hike begins from the Ha Valley, climbing up towards the pastures. It takes you over the Saga La Pass (3150 meters), Ningu La Pass (3850 meters), and Chele La Pass (3988 meters). The landscape looks dramatic to witness the Ha Valley from the top, along with the breathtaking Himalayan view of Jumlhori Peak. Spending a few nights at the tented camp, you get an excellent experience of feeling Bhutan's freshness and energizing countryside along with the spiritual touch.

 

While returning from the Chele La Pass Trek in Bhutan, you can visit the Chimi Lhakhang temple, also known as the Divine Madam. The Punakha Dzong is another delightful attraction of the Bhutan Cultural Tour with 3 Days Chelela Trek package. It is the second oldest and second most significant Dzong in Bhutan.

 

Major Highlights Bhutan Cultural Tour with 3 Days Chelela Trek 

  • Explore the breathtaking Shangri-La of Bhutan, including the cultural aura
  • Historical monasteries, chhortens, and forts- Kichu Lhakhang and Rinpung Dzong
  • Tiger's Nest aka Taktsang monastery
  • Hiking through the isolated trail and splendid valleys
  • Impressive passes- Chele La Pass (3988 meters) and Ningula Pass (3850 meters)
  • Outstanding view of Jumlhori Peak
  • Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan
  • Kila Gompa Nunnery
  • Cross the Dochu La pass (3100 meters) and drive to Thimphu
  • Chimi Lhakhang temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley or the ‘Divine Madman.’

Itinerary

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Witnessing the excellent Himalayan peaks like Chomolhari, we approach Bhutan from a close distance. We land at the airport in Paro. The representative of Adventure Club Trek receives you at the airport and transfers you to the hotel. Take a rest for a while at the hotel and have lunch. Then set out for the exploration of some cultural and historically significant sites. We take a tour around Kichu Lhakhang. The nearby site Rinpung Dzong is also known as the fortress of the heap of jewels and we get the delighting attraction of it. Then visit the victory fort of Bhutan, which is known as Drugyal Dzong, dating back to the mid of 17th century

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,250m/7,382ft

Good morning, Paro. After breakfast,  we hike the Tiger's Nest (aka Taktsang monastery), located at an altitude of 3180 meters. It simply represents Bhutan in the postures to be viewed at the international level. The history takes back to Guru Rinpoche, who was believed to have flown here on Tiger's back and came to meditate. Having lunch at the nearby restaurant, we gradually hike down completing an 8.6 km/5.3 miles round trip and back to Paro.

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,180m/10,433ft

Having breakfast at Paro, we pack the stuff and drive to Ha Valley. Reaching the trekking point across the Chele La Pass, we meet the further staff and embark on the journey. Heading through the unpaved motor road initially for about 45 minutes, we follow the trail which leads us to the yak herder's camp. The animal husbandry lifestyles look dramatic around the meadow. Walking further, we take the right route to our campsite, located below the Saga La Pass.

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,150m/10,335ft

Good morning at the delighting tented camp below the Saga La Camp (3100 meters). First, we have breakfast and commence the hike, which is a continual climb uphill to the rewarding pass at 3550 meters, which is Saga La. Weather permitting; the breathtaking Himalayas including Jumolhari can be witnessed from the Pass. Then we descend through the right trail, which also includes some uphill climbs through the alpine meadows and rhododendron forest. Gradually, we climb to the Ningu La, which offers awesome scenery of the Ha Valley.

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,850m/12,632ft

After breakfast, we begin to hike downhill through the ridge witnessing the yak herder's camps. The next move is through the woods of rhododendron and the alpine meadows to Kung Karpo Pass. From the pass, the magnificent view of the downhill Haa Valley looks impressive along with Paro. Bhutan holds several cultural sites like Kila Gompa Nunnery that can be seen from a far distance too. Kicking off through the rhododendron forest, we wave goodbye to the ridge, which is adorable with the fluttering prayer flags hanged around the pass. We reach the Chelela Pass, but it can be done also by car. Well, we conclude our outstanding hiking here and take a drive from the pass to the capital of Bhutan. Exploring around Thimphu in the evening and enjoying the movement of the local people can be witnessed exclusively.

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,988m/13,085ft

After having breakfast at Thimphu, we take a drive through the Highway to Punakha. On the way, we stop at Dochu La Pass, which is located at 3100 meters altitude. In the morning, the views usually look amazing, including the snowy peaks. Crossing the pass, our drive becomes more pleasing through the hemlock and rhododendron forest. On the way, we stop at Lobesa to hike toward Chimi Lhakhang temple. The temple/monastery was built in 1499 A.D. It was blessed by the Divine Madam, and it is believed that women who seek fertility will be blessed if they visit this temple. Then we transfer to Punakha.

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,250m/4,101ft

We set out to visit the Punakha Dzong after having breakfast at the hotel. Its literary meaning is the palace of great happiness or bliss. It is the second oldest and second-largest Dzong in Bhutan, located between two Rivers. It's a great place to feel peace. Then we drive to Paro via Dochu La Pass. We visit the Druk Wangyal Monastery, which commands amazing views of the valley and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. All tourists stop to see the 108 chhortens here, and it is the only one of its kind in the nation. Next, we drive ahead to Thimphu, where we stop for lunch. After a short break, we continue driving to Paro.

  • AccommodationStandard Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,250m/7,382ft

We have an early breakfast and proceed to the airport. We bid farewell to this beautiful Himalayan Kingdom with a picturesque flight in the morning as the airlines operate flights in the morning to avoid the harsh weather condition.

  • MealsBreakfast

Note: Your safety is of the utmost concern while traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary, but we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline, and illnesses or an injury can occur. To avoid dangerous situations, we may occasionally change the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That being said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Cost Details

Price Includes

  • All arrival and departure transfers in a private tourist vehicle.
  • Full board meals with tea/coffee and snacks - for the duration of the trip.
  • Bhutan visa fees and processing assistance.
  • Mineral water on long trips both on the trek and cultural tours
  • Government-approved A and B category hotels on a twin-shared basis.
  • Tented camp during trekking on a twin-shared basis.
  • Transportation in a comfortable private vehicle(s).
  • Experienced English-speaking guides and local staff.
  • Trekking equipment like sleeping bags, dining tents, kitchen tents, toilet tents, mattresses, etc.
  • Porter services for trekking.
  • All applicable Bhutanese government taxes

Price Excludes

  • Nepal Entry Visa fees 15 Days – 30 USD, 30 Days – 50 USD, and  and 90 Days – 125 USD
  • Airfare for international flights to and from Bhutan
  • All city tours with permits, and entrance fees for museums and monuments.
  • Items of a personal nature (personal gear, telephone calls, beverages, internet, laundry)
  • Travel and Medical/Evacuation Insurance
  • Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
  • Any services in Kathmandu/Nepal (hotels, transport, etc)

Date & Prices

     
Start DateStart: SaturdayDecember 09, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayDecember 16, 2023StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $2559
Start DateStart: SaturdayDecember 16, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayDecember 23, 2023StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $2559
Start DateStart: SaturdayDecember 23, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayDecember 30, 2023StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $2559
Start DateStart: SaturdayDecember 30, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayJanuary 06, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $2559

The given cost are per person and exclude international flights. Given below are the departure dates available for online booking. If the given date is not favorable then please contact us and we will happily customize your trip on dates more appropriate for you.

Useful Info

Visa Information

Indian, Bangladeshis, and Maldivian nationals can obtain a visa at the port of entry by producing a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity (Indian nationals may also use their Voters Identity Card (VIC). For other tourists, you will need to acquire visa clearance in advance. Visas are processed through an online system by your licensed Bhutanese tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. Tourists are also required to book their holiday through a Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. The tour operator will take care of Visa arrangements for visitors.


You are required to send the photo page of your passport (passport scanned copy) to your tour operator, who will then apply for your visa. The visa will be processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) once the full payment of your holiday (including a USD 40 visa fee) has been wire transferred and received in the TCB bank account. Once received, the visa clearance will be processed within 72 working hours. You will be required to show your visa clearance letter at your point of entry, and the visa will then be stamped into your passport.

Accommodation

The government approved and classified hotels in Bhutan as grades A, B, and C. These government-approved hotels are equivalent to 3-4 star hotels elsewhere. Based on availability at the time of booking, we will be accommodated in A-grade hotels in Paro and Thimpu and B-grade hotels in Punakha, Wangdue, and Bumthang. All accommodations are on a twin-shared basis. A single supplement will be served on request. 

Meals

All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) will be made available on the trip. A variety of meals are available in most hotels, the most popular being Indian, Chinese, and the more common continental food. Non-vegetarian dishes are generally available in Bhutan - pork, beef, chicken, and fish. The best advice is to ask the hotel and restaurant to recommend what is fresh and in season.

 

Weather Information

There is no appropriate season which is to say that Bhutan's warm and temperate climate, never-ending festivals, and rich and abundant heritage sites provide visitors with a wide array of experiences throughout the year across the country. Bhutan has all four seasons, and the climate varies widely depending on the altitude.

Spring (March, April & May)

This is considered the most beautiful time of the year, radiant and ablaze with a spectacular array of bright colors. This is when the valleys are green with fresh vegetation, fruit trees are blossoming, and locals are naturally mirthful and cheery when visitors are most welcome. Also, you can witness the famous Paro tsechu festival.

Autumn (September, October & November)

Autumn is lovely, with clear and crisp blue skies providing a grand view of some of the tallest unclimbed mountains in the world. It is the best time for trekking and traveling. The climate is cool and temperate. You can get lovely photography opportunities of willows shedding their golden brown leaves, the solitude of parks, and somber views of dzongs and monasteries.

Monsoon (June, July & August)

During these months, Bhutan receives more rainfall than any other region in the Himalayas. Glorious sapphire skies and warm weather are a pleasant time to spend visiting places of cultural and historical interest though this season is not the best time for trekking. Enjoy a warm, aromatic tea while watching the rainfall from your hotel window. Or, if you possess an adventurous spirit, grab an umbrella/raincoat while it is raining and take a day tour through the town.

Winter (December, January & February)

Winter in Bhutan is sunny, calm, and agreeable. Much of the east-west highway remains snowbound during winter. It is the best time to tour the western districts of Paro, Wangdue, Punakha, Thimphu, and Haa. One of the chief attractions in winter is the beautiful Gangtey (Phobjikha) valley, where you can expect to see a vast expanse of rolling plains with bamboo shrubs.

Safety Guidelines

Credit cards are not a convenient payment source in Bhutan, as only a handful of hotels in a few places provide this facility. Also, only MasterCard and Visa. US dollars are the most convenient currency and are cashed by most banks.

You should avoid drinking tap water altogether, but it is okay to use it for brushing your teeth. Bottled water is widely available and is best for drinking. It is also wise to carry water purification tablets when trekking in remote locations of Bhutan.

The local currency is the Ngultrum, pegged to the Indian Rupee. Note: The Indian Rupee in 500 and 1000 is no longer accepted in Bhutan.

Bhutan is the only country in the world that has banned the consumption and sale of tobacco, resulting in smoking being disallowed mainly in public places. Consumption is not entirely prohibited in Bhutan so if you want to smoke, bring your cigarettes and ask your guide where you can light up. (seal opened pack only)

Tuesdays are considered the national 'dry day,' with the sale of alcohol prohibited.

When taking photos/filming inside Dzongs, monasteries, temples, or any religious institutions, check with your guide whether it is permitted, as some areas do not.

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