Through the Foothills to India

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Mongar – Trashigang and Trashi Yangtze - Samdrup Jongkhar
Duration:
5 days / 4 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 1,099.- per person (excluding flights)

Journey deep into Eastern Bhutan, where only a few tourists go. You’ll find that customs are a little different here than in Western Bhutan and you’ll have plenty of time to get to know them as you stroll through temples full of stories of magical feats. As you journey south you’ll notice how the landscape changes from alpine woodland into subtropical rainforest. Coniferous trees and rhododendrons give way to bamboo forests and thriving corn fields until you finally cross the border into India.

Day 1 – Journey to Mongar

Today you’ll begin your journey to Mongar in Eastern Bhutan. This region is very sparsely populated and to reach the Indian border you’ll rack up a lot of mileage. From Ura village you’ll first climb steeply, then descend into Sengor valley. You’ll see the landscape changes rapidly from alpine to subtropical. When you step out of the car for lunch, you’ll notice that it’s suddenly warmer and more humid.

The route continues past waterfalls as dense conifer woodland gives way to bamboo forests. You’ll stop at a Nepalese stupa before reaching Mongar. This town is built against a mountainside, unlike towns in the West which are built in valleys. You’ll have time to drop by the Mongar Dzong, however, if you’re feeling weary after your long journey, just ask your driver to drop you off at your hotel. It offers spectacular views across the mountain scenery and is just a 5 minute walk from town.

Day 2 – Mongar – Trashigang

After breakfast your driver will be ready and waiting to take you along the winding road to Trashigang. You’ll stop for lunch at a beautiful spot along the way. Then it’s the last part of the journey; as you cross a large bridge you’ll quickly see Trashigang Dzong and the city located just in front of you. Not many tourists make it as far as Trashigang, but there are numerous bars, restaurants and cafes in town.

Day 3 – Day trip to Trashi Yangtse

Today you’ll journey from Trashigang to Trashi Yangtse. You’ll stop off at Gom Kora en route. In the rock there is a small, narrow passage where the Bhutanese believe that if you manage to squeeze through, you’ll be freed from all your sins. The next stop is Chorten Kora where you can stop for lunch. This white chorten is built in Nepalese style and quite similar to Bodnath stupa in Kathmandu.

In Trashi Yangtse you’ll try your hand at a traditional Bhutanese handicraft. Wood carving is very popular in this part of Bhutan and some of the products these local artisans produce are truly incredible. Once you’ve had a look round and watched how it’s all done, it’s your turn. You’ll have around an hour to chip away at the wood and turn it into your own carving to take home with you. Ok, it might not be as spectacular as those on display, but it’ll make for an unusual souvenir for friends back home.

Day 4 – Trashigang – Samdrup Jongkhar

The route from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkar takes you along a winding road past sweeping valleys, ribbon-like streams and tumbling rice terraces. As this is an important trading route you’ll notice more cars and trucks on the road than in other areas of Bhutan. Your final night in Bhutan will be spent in Samdrup Jongkhar, a bustling border town with a distinctly India influence. It’s your last chance to stock up on souvenirs!

Day 5 – Departure from Bhutan

The last day of this trip takes you out of Bhutan, across the border into India. After breakfast you’ll be picked up for the last time by your guide and driver. They’ll help you with the final formalities before crossing the border. Now it’s time to say your final goodbye to Bhutan and to your guide and driver as this trip ends at the border where you will continue your adventure into India.