Nub Tshona Patra loosely translates to “The Great Lake in the West.” The Nub Tshona Patra Trek is a moderate level trek that offers hikers views of both local and neighboring peaks, such as Mt. Jomolhari in Bhutan, and Mt. Kanchenjunga, in Nepal, the world’s third highest peak. It also offers, due to its proximity to the southern Bhutanese plains, views of flatter areas.
The trek is located between the ancient trade route of Haa and Tibet. The lake’s history is tied to Terton – treasure discoverer Sherab Mebar, who unearthed treasures from the lake.
The trek can be done year around. Trekking this area provides hikers the opportunity to experience Haa, Bhutan’s last district to open to tourism.
Overview:
Day 01: Arrival in Paro coupled with sightseeing and drive to Thimphu
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing / Punakha Day Excursion
Day 03: Thimphu – Haa
Day 04: Trek Starts | Haa to Womji
Day 05: Womji to Tshonapatra
Day 06: Halt at the lake
Day 07: Tshonapatra to Tsojo
Day 08: Tsojo to Haa | Trek ends | Then, drive to Paro
Day 09: Paro: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Day 10: Departure
Trip Cost for 9 Nights & 10 Days
$ 3800 (Single Traveler)
$ 3485 (Couple -per person)
$ 3260 (3 – 6 Travelers -per person)
$ 3080 (7- 9 Travelers -per person)
$ 2900 (10 Travelers & above – per person)
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Driving Duration: 65 km/1.5 hrs
Elevation: 2250 m / 7382 ft
Expect to visit the following sites:
Paro Airport Bird’s Eye Viewpoint
This landmark is a popular spot for Bhutanese families and loved ones to say their farewells. It offers an excellent view of the central Paro Valley and a close-up of Bhutan’s only two airlines landing and taking off amidst the dramatic Himalayan landscape.
Rinpung Dzong
Built in 1646, by Bhutan’s founding father, this Dzong (fortress) houses Paro’s monk body and the offices of the civil administration. It acts as the religious and secular center of all affairs of the valley.
Paro Town
Experience traditional two storied Bhutanese homes before you leave for Thimphu, the capital.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Elevation: 2250 m / 7382 ft
List of attractions for sightseeing in Thimphu:
– National Memorial Chorten
– Traffic Square
– Lungtenzampa Bridge and Phajo’s Stupa
– Buddha Point
Alternatively, if you prefer to do a day excursion to Punakha, we will visit the following sites:
– Dochula Pass
– Chimi Lhakhang
– Punakha Dzong
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Driving Duration: 2 hours
Elevation: 3056 m / 9780 ft
Expect light sightseeing and lunch at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Haa
Day 1: Haa to Womji
Day 2: Womji to Tshonapatra
Day 3: Halt at the lake
Day 4: Tshonapatra to Tsojo
Day 5: Tsojo to Haa
The trek ends at Hatey, a village in the Haa valley.
Return to Paro via the Chela La Pass (3988 m / 13083 ft), the highest motorable point in Bhutan.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours roundtrip
Elevation: 3120m/10236ft
A day hike to the Taktsang Palphug Monastery (Approx. 5-6hrs roundtrip), Paro local sightseeing
Overnight at the hotel in Paro
After an early breakfast at the hotel, we will then drive to the airport for your departure flight from Bhutan.
Please note that some of the sights/itineraries may change due to season, weather, national holidays, and special events. We maintain the right to alter the itinerary since tours are made in advance and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve your overall travel experience in Bhutan. Also please note that since hotels are pre-booked and paid for, any changes in itinerary later will cost cancellation/re-booking charges.