Off The Beaten-Path Activities

Off the Beaten-Path Activities

A network of medieval transport routes criss-cross Bhutan, historically relied upon by Bhutanese and their livestock. These footpaths and pony tracks invoke Robert Frost's Road Not Taken, but in a slightly different context.

With the arrival of vehicular roads in 1961, the once-trammeled path gradually became the one not taken, now overlooked by cities and hidden from development.

We will take you along these previously essential life-lines of the country, traversed by the nobility and commoners, by warriors and traders, by yaks and ponies. We will share wonderful--yet rarely told--local stories of a time that once was, while enjoying the warm hospitality of remote communities living in pristine natural environments.

The following selection of Hidden Trails are adventures that will transport you to a "Medieval Bhutan" that has been mostly forgotten by "Modern Bhutan." Besides simply providing a refreshing contrast to the popular tourist attractions, these trails will lead you to the genuine heart of Bhutan. Are you ready to "get lost" in order to find a secret worth keeping?

Tashigang to Lungchutse Hike

By Sonam Dendup • 07 Jan, 2021
The view from there is the panoramic sight of almost all the tallest Himalayan Mountain of Bhutan like majestic Gangkar Puensum, formidable Table Mountain and Tiger Mountain. As it is located at the top, the view of the Himalayan ranges is better than anywhere in the area, even as compared to famous Dochula Pass.

Bjoka Village Excursion

By Tashi Wangmo • 17 Nov, 2020
To Experience True Zhemgang

Dunmang Hotspring

By Tashi Wangmo • 17 Nov, 2020
The Healing Power of Nature

Birding in Zhemgang

By Tashi Wangmo • 17 Nov, 2020
Bird Watching in the Hotspot of Oldest National Park

Royal Manas National Park

By Tashi Wangmo • 17 Nov, 2020
The Crown Jewel of Bhutan's National Parks

Thowa Drak Hermitage

By Sonam Dendup • 14 Sep, 2020
Clinging on a huge rock towards the north end of the Tang valley lies the Thowa Drak Hermitage just like the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. From the valley or road point it is a stiff 3 hours hike uphill through the serene and peaceful forest. Sweeping views of the Tang valley and the landscape can be enjoyed along the way with a bird’s eye view from the main site.

Horse Riding in Tang Valley

By Sonam Dendup • 14 Sep, 2020
Exploring the Tang valley and its landscape on horseback is the perfect outdoors activity for the adventurous traveler as well as a family group. Tang is a wide open valley (albeit small) so the horse riding is a relaxed experience while feasting in the scenic landscape of mountains and rivers.

Mebar Tsho / Burning Lake

By Sonam Dendup • 14 Sep, 2020
Mebar Tsho is one of the holiest sites in all of Bhutan and is attributed to the treasure discoverer Terton Pema Lingpa. Holy sites in the Bhutanese language is called ‘Ney’ and as explained by Doctor Karma Phuntsho in his book ‘History of Bhutan’ a Ney is a place from where ‘Natural and spiritual energies and vibes flow from the landscape of such powerful spots, making them conducive environments for spiritual experience. Thus, spiritual persons seek such places in order to speed up and enhance their spiritual practice.’

Tang Valley Excursion

By Sonam Dendup • 14 Sep, 2020
Tang is a remote village located about an hour’s drive from the main Bumthang town and an excursion of the valley is an interesting off the beaten path experience. Though not much in terms of tourist attractions or monuments per se, however the picturesque landscape and interactions with the smiling farmers make the trip worth the while.
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