Trekking Through Time: The Revived Trans Bhutan Trail
The Trans Bhutan Trail is more than just a hiking path; it is a rich historical and cultural corridor that connects the heart of Bhutan. This trail, which spans 250 miles from Ha in the west to Trashigang in the east, has been recently restored after being abandoned for decades.
Originally a vital route for monks, traders, and royal messengers, the trail offers a unique opportunity to walk through stunning landscapes while experiencing the deep traditions of Bhutanese culture. As we explore this extraordinary trek, we will discuss its significance and the wildlife that can be encountered along the way, including the elusive clouded leopard and the charming red panda.
Join writer Chin Liang Teh as we delve into the journey of revitalizing this sacred path, guided by insights from Dorji Draj, former Director General of Bhutan’s Tourism Council.
Chin Liang Teh
Teh Chin Liang is a long-time travel journal contributor to Dave’s Travel Corner and Global Travel Insider. Besides travel journals, he loves writing prose and poetry. When he is not writing, he enjoys reading and traveling to get inspiration for his writing. He lives in Penang, Malaysia, a scenic island city that is also a UNESCO heritage site.
Transcript
Today on Go Nomad, we're taking you on an extraordinary trek to the cultural core of the Kingdom of Bhutan, a land tucked into the eastern Himalayas.
Speaker A:But unlike some rugged Himalayan routes, this trail is refreshingly gentle.
Speaker A:But don't let its ease fool you.
Speaker A:It's a path rich in heritage, spirituality and stories.
Speaker A:Go Nomad writer Qin Liang Tay took this walk.
Speaker A:The Trans Bhutan Trail is a sacred thread that once united the country's religious, cultural and political centers.
Speaker A:And now it's open again.
Speaker A:Joining us is Dorji Draj, former director General of Bhutan's Tourism Council, who will guide us through this powerful journey across the land of the Thunder Dragon.
Speaker A:Spanning 250 miles from ha in the west to Trashigang in the east, this trail weaves through 27 villages and nine districts, linking temples, fortresses, forests and farmlands.
Speaker A:It's Bhutan's original highway, long before cars and pavement ever came along.
Speaker A:Back in the:Speaker A:Monks traveled between dzongs, merchants carried goods across valleys, pilgrims walked to sacred sites, and royal messengers delivered decrees.
Speaker A:This was Bhutan's lifeline, its heart.
Speaker A:But by the early:Speaker A:s forgotten, overgrown, until:Speaker A:Georgi was appointed to lead the effort in partnering with the Bhutan Canada foundation to revive what was once a sacred path.
Speaker A:,:Speaker A:Dorji was there for the inaugural five hour walk, a symbolic return, a personal milestone.
Speaker A:The trail today is moderately easy.
Speaker A:It crisscrosses motor roads so hikers can jump in or out as needed.
Speaker A:It rolls through peaceful valleys and ancient forests.
Speaker A:Sure, there are a few high passes.
Speaker A:Some climb up to 4,000 meters, so be ready for altitude.
Speaker A:But for the most part, it's a calm and immersive hike.
Speaker A:Walking the full trail takes over a month, but you don't need to do it all 250 miles at a time.
Speaker A:To feel its magic, Dorji recommends shorter sections that deliver just as much wonder.
Speaker A:Such as.
Speaker A:The trip between Ha and Paro takes you through peaceful pine forest, high alpine meadows and local folklore.
Speaker A:At every turn from Teshula to Panica, wander through villages and descend into the lush Panakra Valley, home to Wunuputan's most iconic zhong, which is those fortified monasteries from Trangza to Bumfang.
Speaker A:Hike through ridgelines and sacred sites.
Speaker A:Walk in the steps of monks and royal messengers.
Speaker A:From Ura to Sengor.
Speaker A:Raw nature and remote serenity.
Speaker A:Perfect.
Speaker A:If you're looking to disconnect and breathe along the way, you can stay with local families, help out on farms and enjoy Bhutanese home cooked meals by the fire.
Speaker A:It's not just a hike, it's a deep dive into tradition and hospitality.
Speaker A:The Bhutan is a biodiversity treasure trove.
Speaker A:As you walk, you'll pass groves of blue pine, rhododendron, bamboo and oak.
Speaker A:In spring, wildflowers bloom and in higher altitudes you might see edelweiss or medicinal plants rooted in ancient Bhutanese healing practices.
Speaker A:Wildlife lovers take note.
Speaker A:You could spot musk deer, Himalayan black bears, red pandas and in the most remote corners, even the elusive clouded leopard.
Speaker A:Red pandas especially are a highlight.
Speaker A:So small fox, raccoon, like mammals with reddish brown fur and gentle eyes.
Speaker A:And if you're a bird nerd, you're in luck.
Speaker A:Bhutan hosts over 700 species of birds.
Speaker A:Keep an eye out for the vibrant Himalayan monal blood pheasant, rufous necked hornbill and the regal white bellied heron.
Speaker A:In the right season, you might even catch a glimpse of the graceful black neck crane.
Speaker A:Are you into sports?
Speaker A:Certain segments of the trail in Bhutan are ideal for mountain biking and trail running.
Speaker A:Annual events like trail marathons have become popular, drawing athletes and adventurers alike to Darij.
Speaker A:This trail is more than a hike.
Speaker A:He calls it Bhutan's living cultural corridor.
Speaker A:Find out more about hiking in bhutan on gonomad.com.