Description
Owl Trek
The Bumthang Owl Trek is a short and easy three‑day journey that reveals the cultural charm and natural beauty of the Bumthang valley. Beginning at Menchugang near Jakar and ending at Tharpaling Monastery above Chumey, the trail passes through peaceful villages like Dhur and untouched temperate forests filled with blue pine, fir, spruce, juniper, rhododendrons, birch, maple, and chestnut. Trekkers enjoy sweeping valley views, sightings of diverse bird species—including the striking monal pheasant—and encounters with revered pilgrimage sites such as Tharpaling, Choedak, and Zhambala. The trek’s name comes from the frequent nighttime calls of owls echoing through the forest.
The best seasons for this trek are March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colours. Even the winter months—December, January, and February—offer bright sunny days and clear skies, though temperatures drop significantly at night. Overall, it’s an accessible trek that blends scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage.