Nabji–Korphu Trek

After breakfast visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. The drive is scenic with beautiful landscapes and villages along the way. On the way stop at Pelela Pass and look around the roadside strolls where locals sell handwoven textiles. And visit Chendebji Chorten.

In Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong situated on a spur, a wild rocky area, with the scenic backdrop of the Mountains provides a strategic location to control Bhutan for centuries and it was the seat of the Wangchuck dynasty  who effectively ruled over much of eastern and central Bhutan.

Overnight in Trongsa

Drive south to the Nabji-Korphu area. On the way visit Kuenga Rabten Palace. Built in the late 19th century, it served as the winter residence of the second King of Bhutan, King Jigme Wangchuck. The palace is an important example of traditional Bhutanese architecture and royal heritage.Continue drive to Tongtongphe and start ascending to Jangbi (1350m) by feeder road. The campsite in Jangbi stands on the valley sill, which offers a resplendent view of the Mangdi valley. 

After breakfast visit the Orchid Garden that houses around 75 different varieties of orchids. The trail to Kudra meanders along stone imprints of Guru Rinpoche’s footprints, dagger and phallus. Lunch is served just before you arrive at Phrumzur, one of the Monpa villages. After a quick visit to the village Lhakhang in Phrumzur and you then proceed to the campsite in Kudra. En route, you’ll encounter another small Monpa village called Lekpogang, after which, the campsite in Kudra is just an hour’s walk. The campsite offers a bird’s-eye-view of Nyimshong village and also of Zhemgang town.

As you venture through thick forests adorned with numerous waterfalls and streams, offering a true wilderness experience. The route also offers the view of rare bird species Rufous-necked hornbill. You wake up with the distant call of the Rufous-necked hornbill.  Animals such as Himalayan Squirrels, Rhesus Mecaques, and small snakes are often spotted along the trail. Unseen but present, are Himalayan black bear, Red pandas, tigers, Clouded leopards and many more.

Upon arrival at the holy tree in Nabji, the villagers will give you a warm reception. Nabji is a beautiful village with paddy fields circling the clustered houses. 

En route to Korphu, the Nabji temple is located in the middle of the paddy fields. Inside, there remains a stone pillar on which Guru Rinpoche, while traveling through Bhutan in the 8th century, brought consensus between two warring kings: King Sindha Gyelp of Bumthang, and King Noeche, by imprinting their thumbs on each side of the stone. Korphu is situated on a mountaintop at an altitude of 1,500m. The most striking thing about Korphu is that the people exemplify hospitality, almost treating you like ‘A King on accession to throne’. You could also pay a visit to the village temple that houses the sacred relics of Pema Lingpa, the famous ‘Treasure revealer’ of Bhutan. The village campsite provides a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Nabji and surrounding areas.

The hike from Korphu to Nyimshong is pleasant and arguably the best birding spot which can boast a bird list of more than 395 species, with among others the elusive Rufous Necked Hornbill who has its nesting holes adjacent to the trail. The walk is mixed with waterfalls, streams and cantilever bridges. The evening brings you to Nyimshong, a village with its reticent architecture and lifestyle. The women of Nyimshong have a penchant for singing and dancing and a cultural show would be ideal to express certain euphoria to end your trek. Of course this is optional.

After breakfast, drive to Gangtey (5 hrs). On the way visit the Trongsa Museum (Ta Dzong). Perched high above the majestic Trongsa Dzong, the Ta Dzong—originally a watchtower—is now home to the Trongsa Museum, offering a deep dive into Bhutan’s rich history.

Overnight in Gangtey

After breakfast, hike across Gangtey Nature Trail which is one and a half hours and enjoy the breathtaking view of Phobjikha valley. Gangtey Nature Trail hike is the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trails in Bhutan. And visit Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century, perched atop a small hill that overlooks almost the entire Phobjikha Valley.

In Thimphu visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, also known as the “Buddha Point,” is a massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Changlimithang Archery Ground to see local folks playing their traditional game archery.
The Centenary Farmers Market (Now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences.
Tashichhodzong. This magnificent structure stands proudly on the banks of the Wang Chhu River and serves as both a religious and administrative hub of Bhutan. Now it houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the King and central monk body.

Overnight in Thimphu

Start early to Paro and hike Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the wooded structure stands bravely on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley. The walk is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours one way. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche  flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. From the road, the hike toward Taktsang follows an uphill route and returning back takes approximately 5-6 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.

Namgay Artisanal Brewery: Did you know Bhutan has some of the most reputed and highly enjoyed brews? Well, if you are a beer lover and want to taste some of the finest brews, you must visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley.

Overnight in Paro

In the morning drive to the airport for your onward destination.