
Chelela Trek
March 2025
There’s only 3 spot left. Join 21 others in this tour.
- 10 Days 9 Nights
- Availability Mar 2025
- Paro
- 24 People in Group

90%% refundable
Cancellation upto 12 days before the trip gets you a refund of 90%
About this Tour
The Chelela Trek is a captivating journey through Bhutan’s diverse landscapes, offering moderate trekking with unparalleled views of the Himalayan range. From the majestic Chelela Pass to the cultural heartlands of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, this 10-day adventure seamlessly blends natural beauty with Bhutan’s rich heritage. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers, the trek promises a perfect balance of scenic wonders and spiritual experiences.
Highlights
• Panoramic Himalayan Views: Experience breathtaking vistas from Chelela Pass, Bhutan’s highest motorable pass, with clear views of Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake.
• Scenic Trekking Adventure: Traverse alpine meadows, lush forests, and high- altitude landscapes, passing through charming villages and serene campsites.
• Iconic Cultural Sites: Visit legendary landmarks like Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Paro Dzong, Punakha Dzong, and Tashichho Dzong.
• Immersive Local Experiences: Explore vibrant markets, interact with locals, and enjoy traditional Bhutanese cuisine
• Diverse Landscapes: Journey through picturesque valleys, terraced fields, and forested slopes while spotting Himalayan wildlife like yaks.
• Relaxation & Local Delights: Unwind with a hot stone bath and savor Bhutanese cuisine, handicrafts, and vibrant markets.
Guest access
Guest have access to the landmark's exteriors and also interiors but sometimes the following are observed
- Allowed to take a tour of exterior of the attraction
- Allowed to take a tour of interior of the attraction
- Some places restricts accessing the sacred chambers and location of the attraction
- Mostly taking photos inside is restricted
- There are instructions provided in each of the attractions regarding accessibility
Hotel Room Amenities
- Twin Sharing Bed
- WirelessInternet
- Heater
- Cable TV
- Family/kid friendly
- Dryer
- Continuous Hot/Cold Water
- Soap/Shampoo
- Bathroom Slippers
- Coffee/Tea Set
- Digital Lockers
- Room Service
Price Includes
- 3 Star Hotel/Resort Accommodation throughout the tour
- SUV Vehicle for group of 2 to 4 pax/Mini Bus for group of 6 pax/Luxury Bus for group more than 6 pax
- Licensed & Experienced Tour Guide
- Entrance Fees to all the tourist attraction as included in itinerary
- All meals included
- Bottled mineral water - 3 bottles
- Evening Tea/Coffee/Snacks
Tour Rules
During temple, monastery, Dzong visits, guest has to be properly dressed as shorts and half sleeve dresses are not allowed inside. Photography is mostly prohibited inside. Smoking in public is not allowed and attracts fine.
Day 1Arrive at Paro Airport
Flying into Bhutan is an enchanting introduction to a country that is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and
commitment to preserving its heritage. As your flight descends towards Paro, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayas where you’ll be greeted by Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga, and our very own Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drakey. Upon arrival you’ll be received by our guide and escort you to the hotel.
After lunch, visit to Paro Dzong also known as Rinpung Dzong. This impressive fortress-monastery is one of Bhutan’s most iconic Dzong and serves as the administrative and religious center of the region. Explore the courtyards, temples, and the impressive architecture. The Dzong offers great views of the surrounding area and the Paro River. After that visit National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong) which is housed in a former watchtower above the Dzong. The museum showcases a diverse collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and historical exhibits. It provides a comprehensive overview of Bhutanese culture and history.
Overnight at hotel, Paro
Day 2Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)
After breakfast, hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a legendary and iconic site in Bhutan, renowned
for its spiritual significance and breathtaking location. One of Bhutan’s holiest shrines and an amazing structure that crosses all boundaries of architectural masterpiece. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is perched some 3,120 meters (10,240 feet) above sea level on a cliff overlooking a valley. It is said that the legendary Indian saint Guru Padma Sambhava, flew from Tibet on the back of a tigress to tame five demons, who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 AD. Taktshang Monastery is the ultimate pilgrim site for all Buddhist especially in Bhutan.
The hike to the monastery takes about 5hours (up and down), and follows an ancient path marked by river powered prayer wheels.
Towards evening, stroll around local market as it is vibrant and bustling, where you can find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and local foods. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Overnight at hotel, Paro
Day3Paro –Chonana (Altitude: 3500m, Distance: 14 km, Time: 5-6 hours)
The journey from Paro to Chonana involves traveling from the picturesque town of Paro, known for its cultural sites and beautiful
landscapes, to Chonana, which is a village situated in a more remote region. The road from Paro to Chonana can be a mix of paved and unpaved sections.
Bhutan’s roads, especially in more remote areas, can be winding and uneven. The drive typically passes through scenic landscapes including river valleys, terraced fields, and forested areas. The route offers views of the surrounding mountains and traditional Bhutanese villages. Enjoy the picturesque Bhutanese countryside with views of the Himalayas and lush landscapes. Pass through small villages and towns, where you can observe local life and traditional architecture.
Overnight stay at campsite, Chonana
Day 4Chonana–Jebkarpo (Altitude: 3500m, Distance: 16 km, Time: 6-7 hours)
The trek from Chonana to Jebkarpo involves ascending through diverse terrains, including alpine meadows, dense forests, and high-
altitude pastures.
The trail is characterized by a steady climb and can be challenging due to altitude and terrain. The trek offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, lush forests, and open meadows. The changing landscapes provide a diverse trekking experience, with opportunities to see local flora and fauna. It’s a resting point before continuing further into the trek or on to the next destination. The area around Jebkarpo offers excellent views and a chance to experience the serene high-altitude environment of Bhutan.
Overnight stay at campsite, Jebkarpo
Day 5Jebkarpo–Milunga (Altitude: 3500 m Distance: 16 km Time: 5-6 hours)
The trek traverses along trails that offer spectacular views of Mt Jomolhari (revered as the abode of Bhutan’s mountain Goddess,
AumJomo), Tsering Gang (The Glacier of Long Life) and JichuDrakey. The trek from Jebkarpo to Milunga involves a mix of ascending and descending through diverse high-altitude terrain. The route typically features alpine meadows, rocky paths, and potentially snowy areas depending on the season.
This section of the trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including snow-capped peaks and valleys. Milunga is a high- altitude campsite or settlement depending on the trek route. The area around Milunga provides an opportunity to experience the serenity of Bhutan’s high-altitude environment and enjoy the views of the rugged landscape.
Overnight stay at campsite, Milunga
Day 6Milungla–Tong (Altitude: 3500 m Distance: 16 km Time: 5-6 hours)
The trek from Milungla to Tong involves descending from the higher altitudes of Milungla. The route typically passes through
alpine meadows, dense forests, and potentially rocky or uneven terrain.
The trail offers varied landscapes, including views of lush valleys, forested slopes, and high-altitude meadows. As you descend, the landscape becomes greener and more diverse. Tong is typically a campsite or a small village. You may spot yaks, an animal that is exclusive to the Himalayan region. It serves as a resting point before continuing to the next destination. The area around Tong offers a chance to experience the more temperate and forested environments of Bhutan, contrasting with the higher-altitude landscapes encountered earlier.
Overnight stay at campsite, Tong
Day 7Tong - Thimphu
The journey from Tong to Thimphu involves traveling from a high-altitude trekking region to Bhutan’s capital city. This transition is a mix
of trekking and driving, allowing you to experience both the rugged mountainous terrain and the cultural and administrative heart of Bhutan.
The road from Tong to Thimphu is a mix of paved and unpaved sections. Bhutan’s roads can be winding and narrow, particularly in mountainous regions. The drive offers stunning views of Bhutan’s diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, terraced fields, and high mountain passes. You will descend from the high-altitude environment of Tong to the more temperate climate of Thimphu.
Overnight at hotel, Thimphu
Day 8Thimphu - Wangdi Phodrang
Before moving to Wangdi Phopdrang, make a visit to Tashichho Dzong. It is a major religious site for Bhutanese Buddhism and serves as
the summer residence of the central monastic body of Bhutan.
It also houses the offices of the King of Bhutan, the Prime Minister, and other government officials, making it a key administrative center. Drive to Wangdi Phopdrang. Along the way to Punakha, you’ll pass through Dochula Pass (3,100 meters). Stop here to enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas and visit the 108 Chortens (stupas).
Continue your journey Wangdi Phodrang. It serves as both a monastery and administrative center. The Dzong was partially destroyed by fire in 2012 but remains a significant cultural site. Enroute Wangdi Phodrang town to know more about Bhutanese culture and tradition.
Overnight at hotel,WangduePhodrang/ Punakha
Day 9Wangdi Phodrang- Paro via Punakha
Embark on a captivating morning journey with a visit to Chimi Lhakhang. To reach this sacred site, you embark on a picturesque
20-minute walk through the village of Sopsokha. It was established in 1499 by Lama Drukpa Kinley, who is celebrated for his unconventional and often humorous approach to spreading Buddhism. The temple is famous for its association with fertility and is often visited by couples seeking blessings for children. The walk to the temple through rice fields and traditional villages adds to the experience.
After lunch in Traditional Farm House, drive to Punakha to visit the Punakha Dzong. It was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Father River) and Mo Chhu (Mother River) in the Punakha Valley, it serves as a central symbol of Bhutanese culture and history. Drive to Paro,capturing the essence of Bhutan’s landscapes and cultural heritage.
Overnight at hotel, Paro
Day 10Farewell
After breakfast, our representatives will drop you to Paro airport for your onward destination. TashiDelek!! Until we meet again.
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