Centuries ago, before roads collared the mountains, Kings and layman traversed this ancient trail. The trail owes its significance in connecting the two bastions of power- Thimphu, and Punakha. As it must have been a best-beaten path in the olden days, it is only frequented by the dwellers and serves for touristic activities such as hikes.
Through valleys high and meadows low- we traverse through gentle knolls dotted by settlements of few houses crowned by the glory of temples, coming our way in succession. The forests thin as we go deeper and unto the destination. On the horizon of campsites are stunning vistas of mountains in a tapestry of gorges tipping waterfalls.
- Traversing gradually and steadily through a forest of pines, oaks and rhododendrons, a very scenic mountain pass- Sinchu La at 3400 meters above the sea level greets us. The ridge has an old chorten, colorful flags blow in the wind and send the prayers and wishes of the pilgrims to heaven. In clear weather, there is a beautiful view of Phajoding Monastery and the valley. Sinchula pass is considered as one of the most adventurous outdoor locations in the Asia Pacific.
- Day 1 Dechencholing – Chamina: Driving towards the north of the capital city, the last road point will be at Pangrizam, it hosts a very sacred astrological monastery that people throng in hundreds every day. Hiking up the gentle slope spotting scattering settlements, we will camp a little above the Chamina village.
- Day 2 Chamina – Dopshing Pang: Ascending up the trail gradually, feasting on the serenity of nature, we go up and above 3400 meters. At this elevation, we are at a mountain pass- Sinchu La. This mountain pass on a clear weather is a vantage confluence to witness the sacred Phajoding monastery and on the descent, we will see a beautiful settlement- Thinleygang. We also see the Talo monastery- the home of our Queen Mothers. As we keep descending, we reach Dopshing Pang- for the night, we pitch our tents here.
- Day 3 Dopshing Pang – Chorten Ningpo: After a gradual descent through the thicket of the forests, villages, and terraces of rice fields, we reach Chorten Ningpo. Chorten Ningpo is linked to Drukpa Kuenley, better known as the “divine madman” and stories about the divine madman may not seem saintly but you will realize the lessons as you sleep over it. We shall pitch our tent by the temple.
- Day 4 Chorten Ningpo – Zomlingthang: Trailing downhill through several villages amid the terraces of rice fields and brooks, we reach our destination. For the last day, we rest for the night in a hotel.
