After breakfast, we will drive to Trongsa. Located at an elevation of 2,180 m, Trongsa is the gateway to central Bhutan. The ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family, Trongsa Dzong, commands the eye from miles away. It sets amid spectacular scenery.
Moreover, the drive to Bumthang via Trongsa is about six hours. On the way, we will be crossing over Pelela Pass (3,300 m) and Yotongla Pass (3,400 m).
We then climb firmly, passing through semi-tropical vegetation and then to Pelela Pass. Here, we will experience an alpine environment of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo. Also, this pass has traditionally recognized the boundary between west and east Bhutan. Besides that, you can witness the Himalayan range view if the weather is clear. You can especially see the peak of Jomolhari (7314 m) to the west.
On the way, we cross Chendebji Chorten, built many centuries ago to suppress a demon.
Today, we will also be able to visit Ta Dzong. It is the recently opened museum in the watchtower. Setting the Mangde Chu at an elevation of 2,200 m, Trongsa Dzong is the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong is an architectural masterpiece, built-in 1644 by the Zhabdrung. It is dedicated to the Wangchuk dynasty. And it tells the tales of the Dzong and the valley, highlighting the personal belongings of the kings and queens of Bhutan.
Our drive continues through some of Bhutan’s most idyllic landscapes.
Bumthang is an area of high valleys. Further, it is one of the most historic dzongkhag in Bhutan. Bumthang means a beautiful field. The lush valleys of Bumthang are covered in pastures of rice, buckwheat, and potatoes. Further, some usual sights here are Apple orchards and dairy farms. Also, this idyllic region is one of the most peaceful places in Bhutan. We will stay in a local farmhouse. Here, you will experience a genuine slice of Bhutanese life and hospitality.