Punakha Winter Trek

This 4 day / 3 night trek is rated EASY so is suitable for beginners although still requires a reasonable level of fitness. It commences from the capital Thimphu and terminates in the neighbouring Punakha Valley. It is recommended between March-early June and late September-November however is one of the few Bhutan treks that can be undertaken even in the winter months December-February due it’s lower altitude. The maximum altitude is 3,400 metres.

Day 1. Punakha Winter Trek

Dechencholing – Chamina (4-5 hours, ascent 860m, camp altitude 3,360m).

Drive north up the valley towards Dechencholing Palace, following the Thimphu Chhu (river). Your vehicle transport will take you up to Pangrizam, the last road point. From here the trek starts towards Shong Pang, and leads you through some beautiful villages. The camp will be just above Chamina village.

Overnight: Tented Campsite.

Day 2: Punakha Winter Trek

Chamina – Dopshing Pang (7-8 hours).

The trek trail ascends gradually until you reach the pass called Sinchula (3,400m). From this point, if the weather is clear, one can see Phajoding monastery just above Thimphu city. After another 2 km you can view Thinleygang village, Talo Monastery and the road towards the ancient capital of Bhutan, Punakha. The trek from the pass is more or less downhill until you reach the campsite at Dopshing Pang.

Overnight: Tented Campsite.

Day 3: Punakha Winter Trek

Dopshing Pang – Chorten Ningpo (8 hours, camp altitude 2,700m).

The trek to Chorten Ningpo is rather gradual and will take you through thick forests, villages and rice fields. Chorten Ningpo is linked to Drukpa Kuenley, better known as the “divine madman” and your guide will tell you of many colourful legends connected to this man. The campsite is right in front of the temple.

Overnight: Tented Campsite.

Day 4: Punakha Winter Trek

Chorten Ningpo – Zomlingthang (2-3 hours).

This morning the trek trail will lead you downhill through several villages until you reach a motor road. From here you will be met by your driver & vehicle and transported down the Punakha Valley to your overnight hotel accommodation.