Bumdra Trek

5 Days

Overview

Experience the best of Bhutan with Bumdra Trek! This short 5-day and 4-night hiking package combines cultural tours of Paro with a trek to Bumdra, located at an altitude of 4,300 meters. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks and lush valleys below, as well as visits to historic fortresses and shrines. Learn about Bhutanese heritage and culture, and witness the country’s commitment to sustainability with its negative carbon rating. Book your Bumdra Trek adventure today and discover the beauty of Bhutan!

The Bumdra Trek in Bhutan is a short 5-day and 4-night hiking package that combines cultural tours of Paro with a trek to Bumdra. Located at an altitude of 4,300 meters, Bumdra is a hill above the city of Paro that offers stunning views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks and lush valleys below. The trail to the top is a stiff climb over a smooth upward trail that passes through some of the most wonderful views of Oak and rhododendron trees. The top consists of a 17th-century temple and a meditation cave where lamas and others have meditated for centuries.

Besides the summit, the trail to the top also goes along some of the finest ridgelines, giving you a look at the valley below, with meadows, wildflowers, and an assortment of flora and fauna native to that part of the world. Bhutan is a country that lies in the Himalayan region, and its culture has been heavily influenced by Buddhism, which is showcased in every aspect of it. The cultural part of the Bumdra trek will highlight this aspect of Bhutanese culture, as well as the country’s commitment to sustainability. With over sixty percent of its landmass covered by forestation, Bhutan is the only country with a negative carbon rating, and the hike up to Bumdra will make this clear.

The trek to Bumdra is not just about the summit. It also offers panoramic views of the magnificent landscape below in the valley and of the Taktsang Monastery, which is located against a vertical cliff at nearly 3,000 meters high. The cultural part of the hike takes you to this iconic monastery, as well as to some notable dzongs (fortresses) and shrines that were built in historical times and served as the defense of the country when needed. The Bumdra hike ends with a flight out by the national carrier, which offers stunning views of the high Himalayan mounts to the north and lush green hills below. Book your Bumdra Trek today and experience the best of Bhutan!

Here are some of the highlights of the Bumdra trek:

  1. Bumdra Monastery: The trek takes you to the Bumdra Monastery, which is located at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The monastery is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers panoramic views of the Paro valley.
  2. Camping in the Wilderness: The trek offers a unique opportunity to camp in the wilderness amidst the stunning Himalayan landscapes. The camping site is located on a hilltop and offers incredible views of the valley and the surrounding peaks.
  3. Tiger’s Nest: The trek also takes you to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters. The monastery is a sacred site for Bhutanese Buddhists and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.
  4. Stunning Scenery: The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains, including Mount Jomolhari and Mount Gangkhar Puensum, which are the two highest peaks in Bhutan.
  5. Local Culture: The trek provides an opportunity to experience the local culture of Bhutan, including its unique architecture, traditions, and way of life.
  6. Natural Beauty: The Bumdra trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain. The trek offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, rivers, and mountain ranges.
Best time for bumdra trek?
The best time to do the Bumdra trek in Bhutan is from March to May or from September to November, which are the spring and autumn seasons. During these months, the weather is usually dry and sunny, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making it comfortable to hike and enjoy the beautiful views. In the spring season, you can see the colorful blooming of the rhododendrons and other wildflowers, while in the autumn season, you can enjoy the clear views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. However, it is important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it is always advisable to check the weather forecast before starting your trek and be prepared for any changes in the weather conditions.

Bumdra Trek is difficult trek?
Yes, to a certain extent as the hike to the top is a constant climb to Bumdra hill top. Yes, you would need to have the general fitness which calls for walking you a trail that goes only upwards, but then on the return way, it is only down. Plus the other parts of the itinerary plan, is mostly visits to culturally important places, so it would not be that telling on the body. The hard part of the hike is made up by what you see on the trek which takes away most of the physic toll on the body.

Bumdra Trek Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Paro (2,250m) – Sightseeing
Day 2: Drive to Sangchen Chokhor & trek to Bumdra (3,800m)
Day 3: Day excursion (Ridge Hike) in Bumdra (3,800m)
Day 4: Trek back to Paro via Taktsang Monastery (3,120m)
Day 5: Depart Paro

Trip Highlights

  • Witness the world’s highest mountains during the flight to the lush green Paro Valley.
  • Explore Paro town with guided city tour.
  • Carry easy hike into the Bumdra region.
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ perched in a vertical cliff.
  • Discover age-old Bhutanese culture and traditions.
  • Witness spectacular panoramic views of the Bhutanese landscape and snow-capped mountains.

Itinerary

Today, you arrive at Paro International Airport aboard the National Carrier, you will be met by the staff of the company who will welcome you and take you to the city for lunch. Completing lunch, you will begin you sightseeing tour. We first begin by going to Ta Dzong that is a watch tower primarily built to defend the Rinpung Dzong at the time of the inter-valley wars in the 17th century. Then we visit Paro Rinpung Dzong built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 the first temporal ruler of Bhutan. Now it is the seat of district administration. We then move past the Nemi Zam, a cantilever bridge to the south. We stay the night at a hotel.

After completing breakfast today, we head for Sangchen Chokhor in a short drive. This is the beginning of your trek. You now start hiking up a steady climb till you reach Chochong-Tse through thick forest of Oak, Himalayan Blue Pine and rhododendron forests. Sangchen Chokhor is a 17th century Temple and a meditating cave. Then you get lovely views on short burst up the trail. Then it’s via a ridgeline atop the valley floor giving you nice sights of the valley floor and snow-capped peaks to the north. Finally you then pass some lovely forest and meadows with wild flowers onto where we will camp for the night. From our Camp site, you will get astonishing views of the surrounding snow-capped mountain peaks. We stay at the camp for the night.

After completing breakfast we will hike along the ridge at Bumdra where we are left with two options. The first is an easier one of conquering a short summit of 4,200 metres. It takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach. The second being a bit more difficult that has a longer walking time with a higher elevation at 4,600 metres. It takes 5 to 6 hours. Either one will give you a spectacular view of the distant surrounding. We stay the night at Camp.

First we hike to Bumdra Gompa tucked into the side of a massive cliff face that was founded by the Tantric Buddhist Yogini, Machig Labdron. After which we begin descending through some forested landscape and get to the well-known Taktsang Monastery or the tiger's nest that was built against a vertical cliff. It is believed that the Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress to meditate for three months. Then we head back to the hotel for our night's stay.

Now what you came for has been completed, you will be bid farewell at the airport for you outbound flight to your next destination.
At Breakfree Adventures, we only hope that you had a nice time on your Bumdra Trek, where we take your comfort and security of paramount importance.

Cost

What is Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • 3-star accommodation throughout your Bhutan stay (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium). Camping while on trek.
  • Bhutan visa fee – including all necessary processing.
  • Route Permit.
  • Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours.
  • Three meals per day - Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner (only breakfast on last day)
  • A licensed English Speaking Bhutanese trek/tour guide.
  • All land transportation by a private vehicle.
  • Trek & sightseeing as per itinerary.
  • Monuments entrance fees wherever applicable.
  • Bottled drinking water.
  • All internal taxes and charges.
  • A sustainable development fee of $65. (This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.)

What is Not Included

  • Airfare & Travel Insurance.
  • Expenses of personal nature, Tips & Gratuities.
  • Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.

FAQs

Where is Bumdra?

Bumdra is in Paro where there is a Bumdra Monastery close to Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The high camp is located just under Bumdra Monastery at 3800 meters.

What is Bumdra trek route?

Bumdra trek route is first drive from Paro to Sangchen Chokhor and start the trek to Bumdra. The next day is excursion (Ridge Hike) in Bumdra and on third day trek to Taktsang Monastery and drive back to Paro.

How much is Bumdra trek altitude?

Bumdra trek altitude is 3800 meters which is the highest point during the trek where you will go for a day excursion.

When is the best time for Bumdra trekking?

The best time for Bumdra trekking is March to May and September to November. In monsoon (Jun-Aug) will be too wet and in winter(Dec-Fe) will be colder with snow but people still do trek in winter which is the off-season with less tourists.

What is Bumdra trek distance?

Bumdra trek distance is 7 kilometers.

What is Bumdra trek itinerary?

Bumdra trek itinerary is drive Paro to Sangchen Chokhor, trek to Bumda, on day is day excursion in Bumdra and on the last day is hike to Taktsang Monastery then drive back to Paro.

Will I get altitude sickness on Bumdra trek Bhutan?

Altitude sickness on Bumdra trek Bhutan can occur since the trek is above 3000 meters but there is one day as acclimatization/excursion day to avoid the effect of altitude. You are also suggested to drink plenty of water and walk slow as well as avoid alcohol, coffee.

How is Bumdra trek camp?

Bumdra trek is a camping trek since no lodges are available on the trail. There will be supporting staff for camping from your guide to cook.

What is Bumdra trek difficulty?

Bumdra trek difficulty is a moderate graded trek where a good level of physical fitness is required. The trek involves ascents and descents so preparation before the trek is recommended like walking, jogging or climbing stairs up and down.

Is Bumdra trek in Paro?

Yes, Bumdra trek is done on the outskirts of Paro town and after the trek drive back to Paro.

Is Bumdra monastery trek worth it?

Bumdra monastery trek is definitely worth it if you are looking into short and quick trekking in Bhutan where you get to witness the natural beauty, majestic Himalayan panorama and visit Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ – the most popular landmark of Bhutan.

Trip Information

Bhutan Visa Information:
The citizen of Bangladesh, Maldives and India do not require VISA to enter Bhutan. People from other countries except from Bangladesh, Maldives and India need a VISA permit while traveling to Bhutan. The VISA processing for Bhutan requires a readable color copy of passport via email that has at least six month of validity from the date of exit from Bhutan. The file Scan Copy should be forwarded to via email in JPEG or PDF format. The passport number and picture of the applicant should be visible in the e-document.

The application should be processed at least 10 days prior to the date of entry to Bhutan. The tourism council of Bhutan then issues a VISA clearance letter and fax or email it to the local travel agent. Please note that the VISA service is not offered in Bhutan, travelers have to buy full service package from the local tour operator. Travelers traveling by air are required to produce a printed VISA clearance copy at the time of check-in for Druk Air flight. People traveling by land to enter Bhutan via Phuentshoking or Samdrup Jonkhar are required to produce a VISA clearance letter at the immigration center. The actual VISA is stamped in your passport on your arrival in Bhutan.

Flights to Bhutan:
There are several cities that have direct flights to Bhutan. There are two airlines Druk air and Bhutan airlines running the flights to Bhutan. Druk air is the national carrier of Bhutan. With its fleet of Airbuses A319-115 and ATR 42 the airlines fly from different Asian countries to the Paro international airport, Paro (PBH); which is only the international airport in Bhutan. There are daily direct flights from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu to Paro International Airport.

The flights from Indian cities to Paro International Airport with the airport name and their codes are listed below:
Bagdogra Airport, Bagdogra (IXB)
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU)
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai (BOM)

Likewise, there flights from other countries with the codes are as follows:
Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand (BKK)
Shahjalal International Airport, Bangladesh (DAC)
Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore (SIN)

Note: The flight schedule and timings are subject to change. If you want to know more about the flight schedules and tour to Bhutan please feel free to contact us. We can also help to find you the cheapest fares available.

Best time to visit Bhutan:
The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan lies in south Asia between China and India. Climate and weather vary according to the altitude, season and place of visit. Bhutan is open all year around for the visitors but it is better to make the travel arrangements as per your preference and nature of visit.

The ideal time to visit Bhutan is spring (March-May) and Autumn/fall (September-November). These are considered to be the best time to visit Bhutan to get the maximum adventure and trouble free experience. Summer and winter also have their own specialties that could draw the attention of tourists during these seasons. During the spring the weather mostly remains clear and climate is fantastic. It is also the best time to visit for the nature lovers to experience the mystifying beauty of nature. Varieties of flowers and plants bloom in this season that makes your adventure an exotic one. The route opens for Jomolhari and Druk Path treks from mid-April to May.

Summer (June-August) in the other hand could get tricky at times due to the early arrival of monsoon. The month of June would be great for traveling if the monsoon is pushed further. Usually monsoon is in full swing by early July. Travelers who would strive to get some trekking experience on muddy trail while witnessing swollen rivers, green forests and flourishing paddy field could choose late summer to plan their adventure. The view of open clear blue sky after the rain is something that strikes you with its mystifying beauty.

Fall (September-November) is another favorable and crowded season after spring. The weather gets mild despite cold mornings and evenings. Tourists from all around the world thong to Bhutan during this season to witness Black-Necked-Crane festival. The month of October has its own significance and the valley turn into a shade of gold as the farmers prepare to harvest their rice crops during this month.

Winter season (December to February) is not that crowded with tourists in comparison to other seasons. Planning your adventure during the winter could be a better idea if you want to avoid the hustle-bustle of the peak season. During the winter Bhutan may see some snow fall. The temperature level goes down (even below freezing point) during some winter days.

VACCINATION FOR BHUTAN:
No vaccinations are presently required However, the following vaccinations are recommended:
Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver. The disease is distinctly unpleasant, with profound nausea, loss of appetite, and weakness.
Tetanus: Tetanus bacteria can infect small wounds and cause a fatal infection.
Typhoid Fever: Typhoid fever is caused by infection with Salmonella typhi bacteria, passed in human feces and acquired by eating contaminated food or water.

WEATHER IN BHUTAN:
Bhutan lies in South Asia between China and India in the Himalayas, weather in Bhutan depends upon the altitude. In the northern parts of the country where mountains rise up to 7,000m, weather conditions are similar to arctic. Southwards, closer to India, the weather is hot and humid in the summer and cool in winter. The monsoon rains are usually heavy. Winters can be a good time to visit the lower parts, but then the highest areas are freezing.

The best times to visit Bhutan are spring (March-May) and autumn (late September – November) when the weather is warm, dry and sunny but always throw in a couple of warm clothes into your travelling gear when you travel to Bhutan regardless of the season.

WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING:
Layering Clothing
Bring your clothes according to the season and region of your travel. Based on your activity and the weather, you can make quick adjustments, by putting on more clothing if it is cold or taking off layers as it warms up. In the summer time, days can be quite warm, especially in the lowlands of Punakha and Phuentsholing, light cotton clothing is recommended for day time. But in most of the tourist and trekking areas, light woolen clothes for evenings and heavy woollens / down jackets for winter are necessary. A waterproof windbreaker is important for trekking and outdoor activities.
Comfortable and Sturdy shoes.
You have a lot of opportunity to walk around in Bhutan, you will be glad you wore sturdy shoes that keep your feet comfortable. Good shoes will let you explore the rural and allow you to have a long day walk. Bring sandals or slip ons to take off easily when entering temples.
Long pants / skirts
Wear particularly conservative clothing in the towns, women should wear long pants or long skirts, men should wear long pants and shorts are not appropriate for anyone. In the dzongs and temples, the legs and arms must be covered, and even threequarter-length capri pants are not acceptable for women.
Rain gear
Be prepared for occasional shower. A folding umbrella is a good idea to bring with.
Hat, Sunglass, Sunscreen & lip protection.
The sun can be scorching in Bhutan. Be sure to apply sunscreen in the morning and throughout your day.

Other requirements:
A quality sleeping bag.
Waterproof gators.
A headlamp torch and a normal torch. (Including spare batteries.)
Binoculars and Camera.
Small day pack.
Water bottle
Towel
Small medical kit that includes aspirin, motion sickness tablets, diamox.(The guide carries a larger Medical kit but please bring own travel medications)
Antiseptic hand gel for disinfecting hands without water.
Mini-flashlight

DIFFERENT CURRENCY ACCEPTED BY BHUTAN BANK:
Credit cards are accepted only in major international hotels and high-end shops in Bhutan.

Write a Review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your review will appear after admin approves it.

Please fill all the fields.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Bumdra Trek

Trip Facts

  • Bhutan
  • 04 Nights/05 Days
  • Spring (March-May) & Autumn/fall (September-November)
  • Private vehicle
  • Bumdra (3,800 meters)
  • Easy
  • Paro
  • Paro
  • 4 - 6 hours each day
  • Sightseeing/Hiking tour
  • Taktsang Monastery, Bumdra Monastery, Paro Ringpng Dzong
  • Government approved 3 stars and Above/Tent during camping

Why Travel With Us?

Experience matters:
With years of expertise, we know how to create unforgettable travel experiences.

Book Now Pay Later:
Reserve your booking today and pay at a later time with our flexible Book Now Pay Later plan.

Free Cancellation:
Our free cancellation policy gives you the flexibility to change your plans.

Have Any Questions?

Dial us now: +977 9851014557
(Also available on WhatsApp)
Email: info@breakfreeadventures.com

Quick contact

    Sign up to our Newsletter

    Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest news, updates and travel deals for the Himalayas.