Chele La Nature Trek
Duration: 9 Days
Difficulty: Moderate Himalayan Trek
Highest Altitude: 3,450 m (Pumola Pass)
Start / End: Paro → Thimphu
Highlights of the Trek:
The Chele La Nature Trek is an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that blends breathtaking mountain scenery, high-altitude trekking, and authentic Bhutanese cultural experiences. Journey through the pristine Haa Valley, cross spectacular mountain passes including Saga La, Ningu La, and Kungkarpo Pass, and trek through alpine meadows where grazing yaks and traditional yak-herding communities continue their centuries-old way of life.
Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, including the sacred Mount Jomolhari, while exploring remote landscapes rich in biodiversity and natural beauty. Beyond the trekking experience, discover Bhutan’s unique cultural heritage through visits to ancient monasteries, majestic dzongs, traditional villages, and the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
This carefully crafted itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Bhutanese trekking experience.
- Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 4,350m
- Starting Point: Paro International Airport
- Spring: March – May
- Autumn: September – November
Day 1 –Arrival in Paro (2,280m) – Drive to Haa Valley (2,670m)
Welcome to Bhutan. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your Miles To Memories guide and enjoy a warm Bhutanese welcome. Weather permitting, enjoy spectacular views of Himalayan peaks including Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake during your flight.
Begin a scenic drive to the tranquil Haa Valley, passing through pristine forests, mountain ridges, and charming villages. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the valley and acclimatizing.
Overnight: Hotel in Haa
Day 2 – Haa – Saga La (3,150m)
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 3 Hours
Ascent: 450m
After breakfast, begin your trek along traditional mountain trails used by local yak herders. Walk through alpine meadows, crossing streams and enjoying panoramic views of Haa Valley and distant snow-capped mountains.
Reach Saga La campsite by afternoon and relax amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Overnight: Camp at Saga La
Day 3 – Saga La – Ningu La (3,850m)
Distance: 9 km
Duration: 6 Hours
Ascent: 700m
Descent: 250m
Today’s trek follows scenic ridgelines toward Saga La Pass, offering spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari and surrounding Himalayan ranges. Pass through high-altitude meadows dotted with yaks and colorful prayer flags.
Continue through pristine mountain landscapes before arriving at Ningu La campsite.
Overnight: Camp at Ningu La
Day 4 – Ningu La – Kungkarpo Pass (4,350m) – Paro (2,280m)
Distance: 11 km
Duration: 6 Hours
Ascent: 500m
Descent: 360m
Today marks the highest point of the trek as you ascend to Kungkarpo Pass at 4,350 meters. Enjoy stunning panoramic views across the Himalayas before descending toward Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable roads.
From Chele La, drive to Paro and check into your hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 5 – Paro – Thimphu (2,334m)
After breakfast, drive to Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu.
Visit:
- Buddha Dordenma
- National Memorial Chorten
- Takin Preserve
- Traditional Bhutanese Family Home
- Ema Datshi Cooking Experience
Optional evening cultural performance showcasing Bhutanese folk dances and music.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 6 – Thimphu – Punakha (1,200m)
Drive Duration: Approximately 3 Hours
Visit:
- Simply Bhutan Living Museum
- Handmade Paper Factory
Drive across the famous Dochula Pass (3,100m), home to 108 memorial chortens and stunning Himalayan views.
Continue to the beautiful Punakha Valley.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha
Day 7 – Punakha – Paro
Drive Duration: 4–5 Hours
Explore Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress:
- Punakha Dzong
- Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)
After sightseeing, drive back to Paro.
Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring Paro town.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 8 – Tiger's Nest Monastery & Paro Cultural Tour
After breakfast, hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic landmark perched dramatically on a cliffside above Paro Valley.
Following the hike, continue sightseeing:
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- National Museum (Ta Dzong)
- Rinpung Dzong
Spend your final evening reflecting on your Bhutan adventure.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 9 – Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
Depart Bhutan with unforgettable memories of majestic mountains, ancient culture, warm hospitality, and extraordinary Himalayan adventures.
