SNOWMAN TREK WITH GANGKAR PUENSUM

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SNOWMAN TREK WITH GANGKAR PUENSUM

TREKKING
26 Nights / 27 Days
includes:
  • transports
  • sight seeing
  • food
  • hotels

EXTREME TREK - This trek goes to the remote Lunana district and considered as the most challenging trek in Bhutan. The attributes those make it a tough trek are ; distances, altitudes, weather and remoteness. Best time to travel - Mid-June to Mid-October

DAY 1: Arrive at Paro to Thimpu

On arrival at Paro airport, received by our representative and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital town. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 2: Thimpu

Full day city tour, visit to ; Memorial Chorten, Trashichho dzong, National Library, Art School, Traditional Medicine Institute, Handicrafts Emporium and Textile and Folk Heritage Museum. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 3: Thimphu to Punakha / Tashithang

Drive to Punakha via Dochula pass (3,050m), through magnificent forest of rhododendron and magnolia. From the pass one can have the panoramic view of eastern Himalayan peaks and enticing view of Lunana route, Picnic lunch at Punakha by the riverside. Enjoy the view of Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 during the time of Shabdrung. The Dzong is now used as the winter residence of monk body and administrative centre of the district. After lunch drive on to Tashithang following the Mo Chu river. Camp at Tashithang at the end of the road at alt. 1,600m.

DAY 4: Tashithang to Damji

The trek starts by the riverside, following a well made path through semi tropical forest. This part of the area is quite wet and one has to be careful of leeches. Also for flower lovers there is abundant on wild orchids here. The day walk is fairly gentle climbing upto Damji village. Camp at Damji at alt. 2,250m, walking time 5/6 hours.

DAY 5: Damji to Gasa

The path continues through semi-tropical forests and villages upto Gasa Tsachu (hot spring). The Tsachu is a famous place where people from all over the country come to have bath, due to its curative powers. Here there are four pools of different temperature from mild to hot. Hot lunch will be served close to spring. After lunch two hours stiff clib to Gasa Dzong. Camp below the Dzong at alt. 2,900m. Walking time 6/7 hours.

DAY 6: Gasa to Chamsa

After breakfast, visit the Dzong, which was built in 17th century, to protect the valley against Tibetan invaders. The path starts with stiff climb upto Bele la pass (3,700m) through bamboo, rhododendron, juniper and fir forests. Then descend for about half an hour to camp at Chamsa at alt. 3,650m. Walking time 6/7 hours.

DAY 7: Chamsa to Laya

The trail starts by descending to the bank of Mo Chu river. Lunch will be served at the side of bridge, across the river. After lunch climb gradually to Laya crossing the army camp. Overnight camp at alt. 3,800m. Walking time 8/9 hours.

DAY 8: Rest day at Laya

One can go around the villages, visiting houses and the people. Laya people are very friendly and will happily pose for photographs. Women of Laya wear a special dress and typical bamboo hats, decorated with turquoise and silver ornaments. Cultural evening with dances performed by local girls.

DAY 9: Laya to Rhodophu

From Laya descend to army camp and continue following the river till the turn off point to Rhodophu. After lunch continue the climb through rhododendron bushes till reach the camp at alt. 4,350m. Walking time 8/9 hours.

DAY 10: Rhodophu to Tarina

Today is the longest day of the trip and it is important to start early. Start at about 5 a.m. by climbing to Tsimola (4,700m). After crossing the first pass and the little summit, one can have superb view of Lunana, Mt. Chomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake. The path is flat for another four hours till climb to Ganglapachung pass (5,080m) is started. The view from the path is breathtaking and whole range of mountains including Masagang, Tsendegang, Teri gang can be seen. After the path, it is very long descent to Tarina valley. Camp at alt. 3,980m. Walking time 10/11 hours.

DAY 11: Tarina to Woche

The walk leads down through conifer forests following the upper reaches of the Pho chu river. The trail then climbs over a ridge and drops to Woche at 3,800m, the first village after Gasa. Camp at alt. 3,800m. Walking time 6/7 hours.

DAY 12: Woche to Lhedi

The trek starts through juniper and fir forests and further ahead through rhododendron bushes. Climb upto Keche la pass (4,480m) where one can have the great view of mountains. After the pass, descend to the riverside walking through the village with stunning view of Table Mountains and others. Follow up the river till Lhedi village, which is one of the main sources of Pho Chu river. Camp at alt. 3,650m.

DAY 13: Lhedi to Thanza

The trek continues following the river, rising gradually to Choejong village. After lunch, visit the Choejung village walking towards the wide valley. Cross the bridge to reach Thanza camp at alt. 4,000m, walking time 7/8 hours.

DAY 14: Rest day at Thanza

One can walk around or climb the ridge for fascinating view of lakes and mountains.

DAY 15: Thanza to Tshorim

The trek starts by climbing the ridge, with great view of the Table Mountain and Thanza valley below. The ridge alt. Is 4,500m and it rises gradually up-to 4,650m. After lunch walk upwards the left side of the bridge enjoying the view of snow capped mountains. Further after climbing ridges, you reach the camp site of Tshorim at alt. 5,125m, walking time 8/9 hours.

DAY 16: Tashorim to Gangkar Puensum Base Camp

This is one of the highlights of the trip and day starts with a short climb to the Tashorim Lake. Walk on the side of the lake enjoying the panormic view of Gophula ranges. The last climb to the Guphola pass (5,230m) is very short. After the pass descend to the base camp, walking along the ridge and enjoying the great view of Gangkar Puensum. If interested, one can divert to the left side to climb up the pyramid peak for a better view or you can go down to base camp nearby Sha Chu at the alt. of 4,970m, walking time 6/7 hours.

DAY 17: Gangkar Puensum base camp

Rest day at the base camp enjoying the great view.

DAY 18: Gangkar Puensum Base Camp to Geshe Woma

The trek is not yet over. The trail further follows the Sha Chu and descends gradually to Geshe Woma at alt. of 4,200m, walking time 6/7 hours.

DAY 19: Geshe Woma to Warathang

The path continues following Sha Chu for two and half hours until the stiff climb to Sakala begins. Visibility along the Sakala trail is poor so one must se top of the ridge for guidance. Lunch nearby a yak herder's camp. After that climb up to Sakala pass at alt. 4,800m. Later descend to the lakes and another short ascent is stunning. Scenery once again is beautiful with small lakes and the mountain peaks. Camp at the alt. of 4,000m, walking time 8/9 hours.

DAY 20: Warathang to Dur Tshachu

A short half-hour climb leads the Juelela pass (4,400m). After the pass, descend to the riverside through dense rhododendron, juniper and conifer forests. After the bridge a short climb leads to dur Tshachu hot spring, where Guru Padsambhava is suppose to have taken bath in the 8th hot spring, walking time 5 hours.

DAY 21: Dur Tshachu to Tshochenchen

From the spring, it is a long and steady climb again with great views of the mountain is Lunana. You also come across blue lakes and yak herders camp at alt. 3,850m, walking time 8/9 hours.

DAY 22: Tshochenchen to Dru to Bumthang (Jakar)

This is the last day of the trek where you change from yak to pack ponies. The path follows the Chamkhar Chu descending gradually with few climbs. The trek ends when you arrive at Dur village where transport will pick you up and drive to Bumthang. Overnight at the lodge in Bumthang.

DAY 23: Bumthang

Bumthang is the general name given to combination of four valleys to Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura with altitude varying from 2,600m to 4,000m. It is home to many of prominent Buddhist temples and monasteries. Visit to Tamshing Lhakhang, the treasure house of interesting religious Buddhist paintings. Then visit, Jakar Dzong, the administrative centre of the valley. Afternoon visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places. Later visit Jambay Lhakhang, the ancient monastery dating from the introduction of Buddhism in the country. Overnight at the lodge in Bumthang. Evening visit to local shops. Overnight at the lodge in Bumthang.

DAY 24: Bumthang to Trongsa (68 km, 3 hours)

The crown prince of Bhutan traditionally becomes the Penlop (governor) of Trongsa prior to crowned as king. Trongsa Dzong built in 1648 is the master piece of Bhutanese architecture, which has been traditional home of all four kings of Bhutan before they crowned as King. Standing above this fortress is Ta Dzong, which once guarded this place from internal rebellion and provides visitor more insight into the historical significance of Trongsa in Bhutan's history. Overnight at the lodge in Trongsa.

DAY 25: Trongsa to Paro (250 km, 7 hours)

Morning drive to Paro en-route visiting Wangduephodrang and local market. This place is also famous for its bamboo products, slate and stone carvings. Overnight at the hotel in Paro..

DAY 26: Paro

After breakfast visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of the Kingdom. Originally built as Watch Tower since 1967 it is acting as the National Museum of the country and holding fascinating collection of art, artifacts, thangkha paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps. Then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong which has a long and fascinating history. After lunch drive north of Paro valley to ruins of Drukgyel Dozng. From this fort Bhutanese repelled several invasion by Tibetan armies. Nearby visit traditional Bhutanese Farm House which offers good insight into lifestyle of local people. While return to Paro town visit enroute Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

DAY 27: Paro (Departure)

After breakfast drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.

INCLUSION

  • Double room on twin sharing basis in government approved 3 star hotels
  • Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours
  • Single room supplement is additional cost on per night per room
  • All three meals (does not cover water and other beverages ordered in hotels/restaurants)
  • Bottled mineral water for the entire trip (except water ordered in the hotels and restaurants)
  • Afternoon tea and snacks
  • English speaking and knowledgeable guide
  • Comfortable SUV and a reliable driver
  • Museum entrance fees
  • Tourism Development Fund
  • Government taxes
  • All administrative cost
  • Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip

EXCLUSION

  • Airfare to and from Bhutan (we can arrange you tickets for you if you wish)
  • Any other beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) including water ordered in restaurants and hotels
  • Travel or health insurance
  • Wire transfer
  • Laundry
  • Gratuity/Tip for guides and drivers
  • Anything that is not mentioned in the INCLUSION.

Group size of minimum 6 pax required

Starts from US $ 6500/- per person

Visa fee (One Time)

USD $ 40/- per person for entire tour in Bhutan.

Passport: A valid passport is required for travel to Bhutan and the validity of the passport should be minimum 6 months.

Terms & Conditions


Booking

Your contract is with Mountain Adventure Tours & Travels. A contract exists between us when we have confirmed you on our tour / hotel booking / or any other travel related services of your choice and we have received your booking request and deposits. All correspondence/s in respect of Tours / Travel Service bookings should be addressed to Mountain Adventure Tours & Travels.

Payments

For the services contracted, 40 % advance payment should be made to hold the booking on a confirmed basis and the balance amount should be paid before commencement of your tour. We hold the right to decide upon the amount to be paid as an advance payment, based on the nature of services and the time left for the commencement of the services.

Payment Options

Payment can be made by Bank Transfer, Cash payment to our office or by Demand Draft / Cheque. All payments should be free and clear of any withholding tax and deduction. Bank charges, if any, for remittance (by remitting bank or by intermediary bank) would be strictly borne by payer.

Rights to amend the itinerary if required

Tour once commenced will strictly go as per the itinerary finalised. In case of events and circumstances beyond our control, we reserve the right to change all or parts of the contents of the itinerary for safety and well being of our esteemed passengers.

Policy Regarding Cancellation / No Show / Early Departure

In case of cancellation of tour/travel services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reason/s we must be informed in writing. Cancellation charges would be effective from the date we receive letter in writing and cancellation charges would be as follows:

  • 30 days & prior to arrival – 10% of the tour/service cost.
  • 20 days to 18 days prior to arrival – 20% of the tour/service cost.
  • 14 days to 16 days prior to arrival – 25% of the tour/service cost.
  • 10 days to 08 days prior to arrival – 50% of the tour/service cost.
  • 07 days & less, prior to arrival or no show – NO REFUND.

Please note – Irrespective of above mentioned cancellations slabs – in case of cancellation of tour services after the booking is made with us – a minimum 10% service charges would be applicable.

Refund

In case you cancel the trip after commencement refund would be restricted to a limited amount that too would depend on the amount that we would be able to recover from the hoteliers we patronize. For unused hotel accommodation, chartered transportation and missed meals etc. we do not bear any responsibility to refund.

Where as in case of Cancellation before the commencement, it will take atleast two weeks time to refund the said amount.

Our Liabilities & Limitations

Please note that after the finalization of the tour/service cost, if there are any hikes in entrance fees of monuments/museums, taxes, fuel cost or guide charges by the Govt. of India, the same would be charged as extra.

Mountain Adventure Tours & Travels act only in the capacity of agent for the hotels, airlines, transporters, railways & contractors providing other services & all exchange orders, receipts, contracts & tickets issued by us are issued subject to terms & conditions under which these services are provided by them.

All itineraries are sample itineraries, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, road conditions, the physical ability of the participants etc. may dictate itinerary changes either before the tour or while on the trail. We reserve the right to change any schedule in the interest of the trip participants’ safety, comfort & general well being.

Our rates are based on the prevailing rates as negotiated by us with the hotels, airlines etc. Hotels and Airlines retain the right to modify the rates without notice. In case of such changes the rates quoted before the modification, can be changed by us according to the modifications by hotels or airlines. All hotel bookings are based on usual check in and checkout time of the hotels until unless indicated in the itinerary.

We shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the programme or expenses incurred – directly or indirectly – due to natural hazards, flight cancellations, accident, breakdown of machinery or equipments, breakdown of transport, weather, sickness, landslides, political closures or any untoward incidents.

We shall not be responsible for any loss, injury or damage to person, property, or otherwise in connection with any accommodation, transportation or other services, resulting – directly or indirectly – from any act of GOD, dangers, fire, accident, breakdown in machinery or equipment, breakdown of transport, wars, civil disturbances, strikes, riots, thefts, pilferages, epidemics, medical or custom department regulations, defaults, or any other causes beyond our control.

We do not have any insurance policy covering the expenses for accident, sickness, loss due to theft, or any other reasons. Visitors are advised to seek such insurance arrangements in their home country. All baggage & personal property/s at all times are at the client’s risk.

Passports & Visas

To travel to India from overseas countries except for the citizen of Nepal & Bhutan, one needs a 06 months valid passport and a valid Visa. And processing of Passport and Visa are not included in the tour cost.

Health

Any person who has a contagious disease is forbidden to travel, any person found during the tour with such a disease will be asked to leave the tour and will have to make their own arrangements to return home.