Horse Riding Trek in Bumthang

14 Days

Overview

A horse riding trek in Bumthang allows you to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Bumthang while traversing scenic trails on the back of a majestic steed. Trekking through pristine trails, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the untouched beauty of remote valleys, encounter remote villages, and forge a deep connection with the pristine natural surroundings. Beyond the adventurous pursuits, the tour is designed to showcase the cultural heritage of Bhutan. You’ll have the chance to visit sacred monasteries, awe-inspiring dzongs (fortresses), and serene temples, where you can witness monks engaging in spiritual practices and gain insights into Bhutan’s unique religious traditions.

Trip Highlights

  • Trekking or ridding along pristine trails, you'll immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of remote valleys of Bumthang
  • Build relationship with animal and know each other during your stay with them.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant Bhutanese culture as you interact with warm-hearted locals
  • You'll have the privilege of visiting sacred monasteries and sleep in monastery with monks.

Itinerary

The trip to Bhutan takes you over the incomparable Himalayas, offering the most sparkling landscape of the world's most elevated frosty pinnacles. Upon your arrival your guide and driver will meet you and drive to Thimphu about 1hr. Check in Hotel. On the off chance that time permits visit Memorial stupa, built for world peace and Tashi Chodzong, the golden throne of Bhutan and center administrative. Overnight in Hotel at Thimphu

Morning sightseeing visit incorporates-Simply Bhutan which is living museum; Traditional Hand made Paper Factory. Painting School (Closed Dec 17-1st March), which preserves our traditional paintings, sculpturing and wood curving; Textile museum, the masterful hand works of Bhutanese ladies. Later make visit to 13th century changangkha temple, Takin Mini Zoo, Bhutan’s national animals.

After breakfast proceed to Punakha across Dochula pass (3,100m). The pass offers the most stupendous view over the more prominent eastern Himalayas including most elevated pinnacle of Bhutan. Enroute make short journey about an hour to the temple of heavenly crazy person, additionally notable as the temple of fertility. It is fascinating to walk through villages and the rice fields. Arrive Punakha the capital city of Bhutan till 1955 and still the Je Khenpo, the Chief of Abbot resides there during the winter season. After lunch visit Punakha Dzong built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638 and situated at the junction of Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers. Overnight in Hotel in Punakha)

Drive to Trongsa about four and half hours. Continue your journey crossing Pele la Pass (3,300m), the traditional boundary between east and west. Stop for picnic lunch at Chendebji Chorten built in 18th century by a Lama named Shida; it is Nepalese in style with eyes painted at four cardinal points. Visit Trongsa Dzong, largest in Bhutan and built in 1647, which houses the local administration and the Monastic body. Tower Museum, dedicated to the monarchs of Bhutan. Continue to Bumthang about three hours. On the way stop at chume weaving centre, typical woolen product from Bumthang valley.

Morning - visit Jambey Lhakhang built in 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo as per the geometrical sketch drawn by his Chinese consort. Hike about hour to Kurjey Lhakhang, Guru Rinpoche meditated here in 8th century and subdued demon Shelging Karpo and made him the protector of dharma there after. Another 45 minutes walk to Tamshing Lhakhang founded in 15th century by Pema Lingpa, the treasure reveler. Short stop at Konchog Sum Lhakhang. Take a stroll through Bumthang market area.

Then drive about 1 ½ hrs to Tang Valley, where our Ranch is located. Upon reaching the valley floor, check into Ugen Chholing Manor Guest House (a simple and clean accommodation which is now being upgraded). Tour Ugenchholing Manor and after lunch at the Guest house, ride to the nearby village to visit the local village, meet local etc. This ride will provide necessary familiarization and get acquainted with the horse etc. Guests can visit local village homes, interact with family etc.

Begin ride after breakfast. The ride takes around 5-6hrs, first passing through villages and then through the fields and forests. Lunch will be along the way. Camp near the Kunzang dra village.There is a temple and hermitage on the cliff (Kunzangdra Monastery). It was founded by Pemalingpa in 1488 and is one of his residences with nice shrine.

Start your day with some fun exercises atop the horse that are beneficial to both you and your pony as you improve your riding balance and confidence. Begin your long ride through the forests and hillsides as you make your way towards the next camping site. Upon reaching the camping site, you will get the opportunity to explore a Buddhist Monastery, village and Temple atop the Mountainside, perfect for taking pictures. (Ride Duration Approximate 6 hours). Option to arrange stay in the monastery!

Enjoy a relaxing ride through the forests, hillsides and terrain as you make your way down the hill. You will be riding mostly on village roads and trails, making it easy to maneuver your pony. Advanced riders can participate in some trot as guided by the trail leader whereas beginners can practice their riding exercises. (Frogs/Up Downs) (Riding Duration Approximate 4- 5 hours). After visiting Dorjibi village, the guest can stay in the camp or take a short drive to the hotel in Jakar (10 minutes). Explore and visit Jakar’s town and local attractions.

Enjoy a nice relaxing ride while exploring the local villages and meeting the friendly people. This is the perfect opportunity to feel like you flashbacked through time as you ride your beautiful horses through the farms and unpaved roads. Watch the farmers plowing the fields or the women in the potato field hard at work as you sit atop your pony. Visit the village temple and some farm house. Advanced riders can participate in some trot as guided by the trail leader and beginner riders can practice their riding exercises.

Ride alongside the mountain trails and cross 3000m pass on your horse back while making your way back towards the stables. Advanced riders can enjoy some trotting on their ponies whereas the beginner riders can participate in practicing some of the exercises as given by the trail leader. (Frogs/Up Downs etc.) After returning to the stables, riders will care for their horse before saying their final goodbyes and drive to Jakar for overnight stay.

(Domestic flight cost USD 195 per person) After breakfast, drive to domestic airport and fly to Paro. Upon arrival we will make visit to Ta Dzong (national Museum), the best place to familiarize about Bhutanese religion, customs and traditional arts & crafts. Then walk down the trail to see Rinpung Dzong (the fortress of the heap of Jewels built in the 17th century), traditionally this is the office of district governor’s and the living place for monks.

Today hike to Taktsang Monastery, the hike takes about an hour uphill till the viewpoint and another hour to the main complex. Initially, Guru Rinpoche visited and meditated in 8th century at this particular site. The Desi Tenzin Rabgye later built the temple in the 17th century. If time permits you can also visit ruined Drukgyel Dzong, the place of historic war between Tibet and Bhutan in 17th century; Kyichu Lhakhang, built in 7th century during the reign of first Buddhist Tibetan king.

After early breakfast in the hotel drive to the airport for flight to onward destination

Cost Includes

  • Bhutan sustainable fees 
  • Accommodations in 3-star category & Camp during the trek
  • All meals, evening tea/coffee with snacks
  • All land transfers and transportation
  • English-speaking Bhutanese Tour Guide/Leader
  • Daily Tourist Fees & Taxes
  • Bhutan Visa and all applicable permits
  • Bumthang to Paro Domestic Flight Charges
  • Horse Charges
  • Camping Equipment during Trek
  • Sightseeing with entrance fees to all monuments
  • Bottled water in the vehicle

Cost Excludes

  • Flights into and out of Bhutan
  • Optional Travel/Medical
  • Insurance Personal expenses such as bars, beverages in the hotel, telephone, laundry, trips, and others

FAQs

Can this trip be taken as a solo traveler? And is the cost the same?

Yes, this trip can be taken as a solo traveler on any dates of your choice. The cost for this trip is calculated for a solo traveler. If others join the tour, the cost could possibly lower slightly. Check with your travel specialist.

What kind of saddle do you provide?

We provide English saddles for the trekking tour. We suggest you wear long pants and appropriate footwear. Helmets can be provided upon request

Is this tour appropriate for a novice rider?

Yes, our horses are well trained, and a novice rider can easily make the trek. Our guides will determine your comfort level and set the pace accordingly.

What are the camping facilities like?

Druk Experience provides the tent and pad for the sleeping bag. If you cannot bring your own sleeping bag, we can provide one. Your tent will be set up daily for you. A bathroom privacy tent is provided at each campsite. A private cook will prepare all your meals while on the trek.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Horse Riding Trek in Bumthang
From $4575
/ Adult
  • Guided Tour
  • Best Price Guaranteed

TRIP INFO