While the Rodung La Trek does not ascend to very high altitudes, it is still fairly challenging as the trail covers some fairly steep climbs and descents. The trail takes you from Bumthang in Central Bhutan to Trashiyangtse in the far eastern reaches of the kingdom.
The route was once an important trade road in the past but has fallen into disuse now and is chiefly used as a hiking trail. The trail passes through alpine and bamboo forests, meadows and mountain passes, through villages and temple...
Jakar - Ngang Lhakhang
The route takes you around Chamkhar Chhu, a river rich in trout. Lunch at the Thangbi Lhakhang, a temple built by the first Karma Shamar in 13th century. Further ahead you enter Ngang Yul, ‘Swan Land” and at its center is Ngang Lhakhang, the “Swan Temple”. Overnight at the camp.
Ngang Lhakhang - Ugyenchholing
Climb gradually to Phephe La pass (3,353m), altitude of 2,850m Follow the trail until the pass takes you through one of the most beautiful forested areas of this region. Allow for stops to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. Over night: Camping
Ugyenchholing - Phokphey
Ascent: 920 m Camp altitude: 3,680 m.
Today’s walk is through bamboos, hemlock and finally up to an alpine forest. The camp is in a meadow at the head of the valley.
Phokphey - Pemi
Ascent: 480 m Descent: 1,160 m Camp altitude: 2,950 m.
Continue ascending for half an hour until you reach Rodungla (3,800m), and then continue downhill through the gorge, overlooking some of the mountain valleys. Towards the camp you see pine trees.
Pemi - Khaine Lakhang
Ascent: 350 m Descent: 1,340 m Camp altitude: 2,010 m.
This trail winds up and down till you reach Drula village and Khaine Lhakhang en route. It is one of the oldest temples in existence today, built in mid 7th century by the King Songtshen Gampo of Tibet to subdue demons. Overnight camp.
Khaine Lakhang - Tangmachu
Ascent: 520 m Descent: 810 m Camp altitude: 1,720 m.
From your camp, the trail goes down to a stream and back up to a basic health unit and a community school in Gorsam. Further on, you pass a Tibetan-style Umling Mani, built by a lama from Tibet, and a chorten on Zerim La (1,940m). Before reaching the next pass, Tage La (1,760m) you will see Menjabi, a beautiful Bhutanese village with large white houses. The campsite for the night is located South-east of Tage Lanear Tangmachu High School.
Tangmachu - Menji
Ascent: 690 m Descent: 620 m Camp altitude: 1,830 m.
After arriving at Kuri Zampa the trek begins to gradually climb up through paddy fields and villages before bringing you to Chusa.
Menji - Pemi
Ascent: 620 m Camp altitude: 2,450 m.
Todaywe will continue uphill through thick forests overlooking spectacular mountains. The camp is located in a forested area at an altitude of 2,400m
Pemi - Taupang
Ascent: 1,450 m Descent: 1,450 m Camp altitude: 2,450 m.
After climbing up to Dongla you will descend through thick evergreen forests until you reach the campsite for the night.
Taupang - Trashi Yangtse
Descent: 720 m
Today is the longest day of the trek. It is a gradual descent to TrashiYangtse. As you descend the chirpine and hardwood forests are slowly replaced by oak trees. The final camp of the trek is located in a subtropical forested region.