HAA VALLEY NUB TSHONAPATA TREK

13 Days

The Nub Tshonapata Trek takes you through the mountains of Haa in Western Bhutan. Haa valley is the ancestral home of the Dorji family, from which Bhutan's Queen Mother descends. The region is connected to the legend of Terton Sherab Mebar, his conflict with the deities of the lakes, and the revealing of treasures from the lakes. Haa valley lies at an altitude of 2,740 m and is one of the most isolated, pristine, and scenic areas of Bhutan. The trek is unique and relatively unexplored, as few venture into this region. In addition to its rich local lore, the turquoise-colored Nub Tshonapata Lake and the lush, untouched forests are highlights of the trek. The trail meanders through invigorating forests of rhododendron and juniper, crossing spectacular passes as high as 4,350 m above sea level.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Later, enjoy local sightseeing, including a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong/watchtower). Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Tiger's Nest Monastery

the Taktsang Monastery parking area. Trek to the Tiger's Nest, which takes about 4-5 hours. The monastery, built in 1692 by the 4th Druk Desi Tenzin Rabgey, surrounds the cave where Guru Padmasambhava meditated. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples, built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 3: Paro to Haa Valley

The pass offers amazing views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m), Mount Jichu Drakey (6,850m), and Mount Tsherim Gang (6,935m). Visit Kila Goemba, one of the oldest nunneries in Bhutan, dating back to the 9th century. Set at an altitude of 3,800 m and adorned with colorful prayer flags, the hike to the pass takes 2-3 hours through rhododendron and hemlock forests. Continue driving to Haa Valley. Overnight at a hotel in Haa.

Day 4: Haa Panorama Hike

the starting point of the hike from Yangthang Goenpa or Wangtsa village. The hike ascends gently to 3,150 m and offers a bird's-eye view of Haa Valley. The trail covers 11 km in about 5 hours, passing through Juney Drak, Katsho, and Yangthang Goenpa. The hike includes several bridges, a picnic spot, and a hot stone bath. Overnight at a hotel in Haa.

Day 5: Drana Dhinkha Temple to Below Tsabjo La Pass (5-6 hours, 9-10 km)

The trail passes through lush forests of rhododendron and conifer trees, reaching a meadow at 3,600 m. Continue walking to the passes of Chozu La (3,900 m), and camp below Tsabjo La Pass (4,107 m).

Day 6: Below Tsabjo La Pass to Chhosho Lumpa (15 km, 5-6 hours)

the campsite, hike 15 minutes to Tsabjo La Pass (4,107 m). Descend through forests, cross streams, and reach Womji. Continue walking through rhododendron forests and high pastureland before ascending to Gongche La Pass (4,200 m). Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains, including Mount Jitchu Drake (6,850 m) and Mount Chundu Gang. Descend to the meadow of Chhosho Lumpa (3,800 m) for the night.

Day 7: Chhosho Lumpa to Nub Tshonapata Lake (3-4 hours, 10 km)

the highest pass of the trek, with views of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and Gankar Punsum (7,541 m). Descend to a swampy area called Tshew (3,990 m), then follow an ascent to Dangka Bjido Ridge (4,120 m). Descend to Lura campsite (4,076 m), located above the holy Nub Tshonapata Lake.

Day 8: Nub Tshonapata Lake to Tsho Tsho Kha (4-5 hours, 15 km)

the trail. Descend to Gongche La Pass (4,200 m) and follow a different route to Tsho Tsho Kha (4,000 m), a campsite near another sacred lake.

Day 9: Rest Day at Tsho Tsho Kha

the lakes and hike up the mountain for stunning sunrise and sunset views. If you wake up early, you might spot Himalayan blue sheep, Himalayan monals, and blood pheasants.

Day 10: Tsho Tsho Kha to Drana Dhinkha Temple (4-5 hours, 15 km)

the starting point at Drana Dhinkha Temple, where your car will be waiting to take you back to the hotel in Haa Valley.

Day 11: Haa to Thimphu

the afternoon, visit the local farmers market, the Centenary Craft Bazaar, and Tashichhodzong (The Fortress of the Glorious Religion). Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 12: Thimphu to Paro

the starting point of the Buddha Point Nature Trail, a 2-hour hike from Changangkha to Buddha Point. Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the tallest in the world at 52 meters. Later, continue driving back to Paro. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 13: Departure

After breakfast, drive to Paro International Airport for your flight to your onward destination.