SD Chele La Trekking

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Thimphu, Paro, Haa Valley

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Tour snapshot

Duration:
9 days

Tour Type:
Trekking Tours

Language(s):
English

Highlight:
Top-rated experience

Overview

The Chele La Trek is a short, scenic hike between Bhutan’s Paro and Haa valleys, offering stunning Himalayan views, alpine forests, and sacred sites.

Included Services

Hotel, Meals, Transport, Guide

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Description

The Chele La Trek (9 Days / 8 Nights) is a beautiful journey through Bhutan that combines short trekking adventure, cultural exploration, and Himalayan scenery. The trip begins in Paro, where travelers visit iconic sites like Paro Dzong and the National Museum before hiking to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred landmarks. From there, the journey continues over the stunning Chele La Pass, entering the peaceful and less-explored Haa Valley. The trekking section starts in Haa Valley and gradually climbs through yak herder trails, alpine forests, and mountain ridges, offering incredible views of snow-capped peaks such as Mount Jomolhari. Each day of trekking brings changing landscapes—from green valleys to high-altitude passes like Sagala and Ningula—creating a true Himalayan experience. After completing the trek at Chele La Pass, the journey shifts to cultural exploration in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, where visitors explore major attractions like the Buddha Dordenma and Memorial Chorten. The trip then continues to the scenic Punakha Valley, known for its rivers, suspension bridge, and the stunning Punakha Dzong. Finally, the route returns to Paro for departure, completing a well-balanced experience of trekking, nature, culture, and Bhutanese heritage. Overall, the Chele La Trek is ideal for travelers who want a moderate high-altitude trek combined with sightseeing, all within a short but enriching Bhutan journey. Note: We would be happy to offer hotel upgrades based on your preference and comfort level. If you wish to stay in higher-category properties (such as premium 4-star or luxury hotels), we can arrange the upgrade for you. However, please note that any additional cost arising from the upgraded accommodation will need to be borne by the guest and will be added to the final package price accordingly.

What's Included

Inclusions

All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening tea/coffee).
Accommodation on a twin or double sharing basis (single room available at an additional cost).
All in-country transportation, including airport transfers.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and government taxes.
Bhutan visa fee.
English-speaking local guide.
Sightseeing as per the itinerary.
Bottled drinking water.

Exclusions

Entry fees for museums and monuments.
Airfare with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines.
Travel insurance.
Charges for services of a personal nature.
Any services not listed under “Cost Includes.”
Expenses arising from unforeseen events such as accidents, strikes, or political disturbances.
Personal expenses such as laundry, beverages, camera fees, incidental costs, porter services, bellboy charges, tips, or any additional services.

Additional information

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Departs at specified time from main station
Some sites may close at short notice
Itinerary may change based on conditions

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Activities planned for Day 1

Arrive at Paro International Airport and meet your guide and driver. Transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.

In the afternoon, visit key cultural sites in Paro:

Rinpung Dzong
Ta Dzong (National Museum)
Dungtse Lhakhang

This is a relaxed day for acclimatization and introduction to Bhutan’s culture.

Overnight in Paro

Day 2: Paro – Tiger’s Nest & Transfer to Haa Valley

Activities planned for Day 2

After breakfast, hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks, located on a cliffside above Paro Valley.

After completing the hike, continue the journey by road through the scenic Chele La Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas, before descending into the peaceful Haa Valley.

The rest of the day is for relaxation and acclimatization in the valley.

Overnight in Haa Valley

Day 3: Haa Valley to Sagala – Trek Begins

Activities planned for Day 3

The trekking journey officially begins from Haa Valley (2,670 m).

Start with a gradual ascent through unpaved trails and yak herder settlements, moving into forested sections and open ridges. The trail offers a peaceful environment with traditional rural landscapes and mountain views.

Distance: 6 km
Duration: ~3 hours

Arrive at Sagala (3,550 m) and set up camp for the night.

Overnight in Sagala

Day 4: Sagala to Ningula

Activities planned for Day 4

Begin the trek with a steady climb toward Sagala Pass, where you are rewarded with wide views of the Himalayan peaks including Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Continue along ridgelines, passing through alpine meadows and forest sections with scenic views of Haa Valley. The trail is moderate but includes continuous ascent and descent.

Distance: 9 km
Duration: ~6 hours

Arrive at Ningula (3,850 m) and camp for the night.

Overnight in Ningula

Day 5: Ningula to Thimphu – Trek Ends

Activities planned for Day 5

Descend gradually through meadows, yak pastures, and rhododendron forests. The trail then ascends to Kung Karpo Sky Burial site (4,200 m), offering panoramic views of Haa and Paro valleys.

Continue along scenic ridges before descending to Chele La Pass (3,990 m), where the trek officially ends. Meet your vehicle and drive to Thimphu.

Distance: 11 km
Duration: ~6 hours

Overnight in Thimphu

Day 6: Thimphu Sightseeing

Activities planned for Day 6

Spend the day exploring Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, known for its culture and modern-heritage blend.

Visit key attractions: