Bumthang Owl Trek
This three day trek around the beautiful Bumthang area offers both fantastic views of an unspoiled natural environment and the opportunity to visit ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries.
The trek is fully supported by a team of guides and porters. Camp in comfort in this remote and beautiful part of Bhutan. This 2- night trek can be incorporated as part of any of our Central Bhutan itineraries.
2 NIGHT TREK
DEPARTS: Bumthang, BHUTAN
Maximum elevation: 3,870 m
Level of difficulty: Medium
Availability: March - May & September - November
Minimum group size: 2 people.
TRek EXCLUSIONS
International airfare to Bhutan. (This can be arranged for you. Please contact us for details)
Stopover hotel if needed
Comprehensive travel insurance.
Additional activities e.g. massage, hot stone bath and some spa activities before and after trek
Alcoholic or soft drinks
Laundry
Tips for trekking staff and guide
TRek INCLUSIONS
Transport by private vehicle
All meals, mineral water, tea and coffee
English speaking Bhutanese guide
Bhutan visa, Bhutan government tourism royalties and local taxes
2 nights fully serviced camping trek including:
Two-man tent, sleeping bag, mattress, blankets, toilet tent, shower tent, dining tent, table and chairs, hot water bags for feet
Trekking cook, and assistant cooks if needed
Pack mules
Camping fees
ITINERARY
Note: This itinerary does not include any days or nights before or after the trek. Please contact us to build an itinerary around this short trek, or add this on to one of our other tours.
DAY 1
Jakar to Dhur: Early in the morning drive (1 ½ hour) to the village of Dhur (2,900m) inhabited by the nomadic Khep and Brokpa people. Begin with an uphill climb through blue pine forest towards the campsite at Schonath. The hooting of owls through the night is quite common, hence the name 'Owl Trek'.
Driving time: 1.5 hours
Walking time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Campsite Schonath
Altitude: 3,450m.
DAY 2
Schonath to Kitiphu: Trek through fresh forest of hemlock, fir and spruce, with the main undergrowth of bamboo. After few hours walking you will arrive at the Drangela Pass (3,600m). Climbing up the Kitiphu ridge brings you to the night campsite with incredible mountain views including Mt Gangkarpunsum (7,541m), the highest unclimbed peak in the world.
Walking time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Campsite Kitiphu
Altitude: 3,870m.
DAY 3
Kitiphu – Jakar: Descend towards the monasteries of Zambhalha, Chuedak and Tharpaling. Towards the afternoon follow the traditional trek route between Trongsa and Bumthang (the Royal Heritage Trail) through scenic hills and forests ending the trek in Jakar village.
Walking time: 4-5 hours