The Ecological Jewels

Eco-tourism is synonymous with Bhutan, for the country is a museum of ecology and its inhabitants.  Trekking routes have been opened recently into communities, turning these into ecological landmarks.

Nabji-Korphu Community Trek

Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Best Season: Late October to March (ideal post-harvest/winter trek)
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 1,500m
Accommodation: Farmhouses, Tented Camps, Guesthouses
Region: Central Bhutan (Trongsa & Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park)

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

• Activities:

  • Warm welcome at Paro International Airport.

  • Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours).

  • Light sightseeing: Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Tashichhodzong.

• Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu – Trongsa (6-7 hrs)

• Activities:

  • Scenic drive via Dochula Pass (3,100m) with panoramic Himalayan views.

  • Descend into subtropical forests of Wangdue and ascend to Trongsa.

  • En route visit Chendebji Chorten.

• Overnight: Guesthouse in Trongsa

Day 3: Trongsa – Tongtongphey – Jangbi (Start of Trek)

• Trek Distance: ~7 km | Time: 3-4 hrs | Altitude: 1,350m

• Activities:

  • Short drive to Tongtongphey (trek start point).

  • Trek to Jangbi village, home of the Monpa community.

  • Explore community, learn about their unique lifestyle and traditions.

• Overnight: Tented camp or farmstay in Jangbi

Day 4: Jangbi – Kudra

• Trek Distance: ~13 km | Time: 6 hrs | Altitude: 1,600m

• Activities:

  • Trek through mixed broadleaf forests, orchids, mosses.

  • Birdwatching opportunities (Rufous-necked Hornbill, parrots).

  • Interact with locals in Kudra village.

• Overnight: Tented camp or farmhouse

Day 5: Kudra – Nabji

• Trek Distance: ~11 km | Time: 5 hrs | Altitude: 1,300m

• Activities:

  • Arrive at Nabji village – spiritual and historical center.

  • Visit Pillar of Peace inside Nabji Lhakhang.

  • Learn about the 8th-century peace accord mediated by Guru Rinpoche.

  • Engage in local games and cultural exchange.

• Overnight: Homestay in Nabji

Day 6: Nabji – Korphu

• Trek Distance: ~7 km | Time: 3-4 hrs | Altitude: 1,500m

• Activities:

  • Leisurely hike through pristine forests and farmlands.

  • Arrive at Korphu, perched on a ridge with stunning views.

  • Learn traditional farming techniques and local cuisine.

• Overnight: Homestay in Korphu

Day 7: Korphu – Nimshong – Trongsa

• Trek Distance: ~9 km | Time: 5 hrs | Drive: 1.5 hrs

• Activities:

  • Descend to Nimshong village, final point of trek.

  • Farewell ceremony by community.

  • Drive back to Trongsa.

• Overnight: Guesthouse in Trongsa

Day 8: Trongsa – Punakha

• Drive Time: ~5 hrs

• Activities:

  • Visit Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress.

  • Drive to Punakha via Wangdue, short hikes and photo stops.

  • Visit Chimi Lhakhang, fertility temple of the Divine Madman.

• Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 9: Punakha – Paro

• Drive Time: ~4.5 hrs

• Activities:

  • Explore Punakha Dzong, confluence of Pho Chu and Mo Chu.

  • Scenic drive back to Paro.

  • Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.

• Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 10: Paro – Departure

• Optional: Early morning hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) if flight time permits.

• Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.

Eco-tourism Highlights

• Biodiversity: Spot rare species like Golden Langur, Rufous-necked Hornbill, barking deer, and over 300 bird species.

• Community Tourism: Stay in local homes, enjoy Monpa culture, and contribute to sustainable livelihoods.

• Cultural Heritage: Historical site of the Peace Treaty, showcasing Bhutan’s unique Buddhist diplomacy.

What to Bring

• Lightweight hiking gear

• Warm clothes (nights can be cold)

• Binoculars for birdwatching

• Refillable water bottle (eco-conscious)

• Camera, small gifts for host families