Druk Asia
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The Sagala Trek is one of Haa Valley’s best-kept secrets — a beautiful, quiet mountain trail that gives you the perfect blend of gentle adventure, sweeping Himalayan scenery, and a deep sense of Bhutanese tranquillity. Starting from the charming and little-visited Haa Valley, this trek carries you along ancient trails once used by herders and monks travelling between Haa Paro.
As you climb gradually through forests of pine and rhododendron, the views open up to reveal shimmering ridgelines and the snow-tipped peaks that form Bhutan’s western horizon. At the Sagala Pass itself, the world suddenly widens: on a clear day, you’ll see Mount Jomolhari and its neighbouring giants rising in the distance, while the valleys below stretch out like soft green carpets.
What makes the Sagala Trek special isn’t just the scenery — it’s the peaceful rhythm of the journey. You walk through quiet woodlands, meet occasional herders tending to their yaks, and camp in places where the night sky seems impossibly bright. It’s not too demanding, making it ideal for travellers who want a short but rewarding Himalayan experience without diving into extreme altitudes or long expedition days.
Distance: 20KM
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Months: Mar — May, Sep — Nov
All our tours are fully customisable — the itineraries you see are simply a starting point. We'll work closely with you to tailor every detail.
7 Days Sagala Trek Itinerary
1
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and driven to the capital, Thimphu. Today is all about settling into the altitude and easing into Bhutan’s rhythm.
- Buddha Dordenma – Begin with a visit to one of the world’s largest seated Buddha statues, gazing peacefully over Thimphu Valley. Inside are more than 100,000 smaller Buddhas, each symbolising blessings and protection.
- National Memorial Chorten – A beloved landmark where locals gather throughout the day to pray, meditate, and circumambulate. It’s one of the best places to observe Bhutan's spiritual life in motion.
- Motithang Takin Preserve – Meet Bhutan’s unusual national animal, the takin, in a quiet forest sanctuary tucked just outside the city.
- Thimphu Town Walk – As the day winds down, wander through Clock Tower Square and Norzin Lam, lined with cafés, boutiques, and traditional craft shops.
Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.
2
- Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) – No journey to Bhutan is complete without this iconic hike. The 2–4 hour climb brings you to a cliffside sanctuary believed to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche himself. With fluttering prayer flags and sweeping valley views, this is one of Bhutan’s most powerful spiritual sites.
- Kaja Throm Market – Explore Paro’s vibrant produce and artisanal market, perfect for sampling local flavours or picking up unique souvenirs.
- Paro Town Walk – Enjoy a relaxed stroll through Paro’s main street, filled with traditional façades, artisan shops, and cosy teahouses.
Overnight in Paro.
3
Distance: 17 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Your adventure begins with a gentle trail following the Halung Chhu River, guiding you through quiet pine and fir forests before opening into highland grazing meadows and curious rock formations. Stop for a scenic picnic lunch at Khadey Gom, a meadow often sprinkled with wildflowers.
The final ascent to Sagala Camp rewards you with dramatic views of Mount Jomolhari, Paro Taktsang in the distance, and sweeping panoramas over both Haa and Paro valleys. Keep a lookout for Himalayan monals, blood pheasants and musk deer, especially during the early morning or twilight hours.
Overnight at Sagala Camp.
4
Distance: 10 km | Duration: ~6 hours
Today’s trail follows alpine ridgelines dotted with rhododendron shrubs and wildflower meadows. With blue poppies, primulas, aconitums, and countless alpine blooms, this stretch feels like walking through a Himalayan botanical garden.
Wildlife is often seen here too — from monals and tragopans to musk deer and goral. You may also encounter local herders moving between summer pastures.
Arrive at the peaceful Ningula campsite, where views of Jomolhari glow beautifully at sunset.
5
Trekking Duration: 7–8 hours | Drive: 2 hours
Your final trekking day leads you through fir and larch forests, open meadows, and panoramic ridgelines. The route via Gung Karpo Ridge (4,000 m) is a highlight, offering spectacular views of Jomolhari and Bjichu Drakye on clear days.
Upon reaching Chele La Pass — one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes — your vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Paro for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight in Paro.
6
Duration: ~8 hours return
Set off early for Chumphu Nye, a lesser-known pilgrimage site tucked deep in the hills above Dop Shari. The trail winds along a peaceful riverside path before ascending steeply to the famed floating statue of Dorje Phamo — a miracle revered by devotees.
Enjoy a quiet riverside picnic before retracing your steps. This hike offers a beautiful balance of nature, serenity, and spiritual discovery.
Overnight in Paro.
7
It’s time to bid farewell to Bhutan’s valleys, mountains, and the warmth of its people. Your guide will accompany you to Paro Airport for your onward journey.
We hope you leave with a heart full of memories, a camera full of mountain light, and a deeper connection to Bhutan’s quiet magic. Tashi Delek — and see you again soon!
Route Map
The Sagala Trek is more than just a trail—it’s a journey into Bhutan’s wilder, quieter soul. Over the course of seven days, you’ll have traced ancient pathways once used by herders and monks, gazed upon snow-capped giants like Jomolhari, and walked through meadows alive with wildflowers and birdsong. You’ve witnessed the harmony of culture and nature, from sacred monasteries to yak herder camps, and experienced the kind of stillness that lingers long after the trek ends. As you return to the valleys below, may the spirit of the mountains stay with you—a reminder of Bhutan’s timeless beauty and the rare joy of walking where few have wandered.
per person · SDF included
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Community Partners
Your journey contributes directly to local communities. Complete a feedback form after your tour and Druk Asia will donate to your chosen cause.
Gyalyum Trust
VAST Bhutan
Museums of Bhutan
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