Nabji Korphu Trek

Nabji Korphu Trek (15 Nights / 16 Days)

Discover Bhutan’s Nabji Korphu Trek on a 16-day journey through forests, remote villages, and cultural landmarks. This low-altitude adventure blends wildlife, local life, and serene Himalayan landscapes, with iconic highlights including the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Designed for those seeking depth over difficulty, this immersive itinerary offers a rare opportunity to explore Bhutan’s untouched central region, where traditional lifestyles remain unchanged and nature quietly leads the way.

Example Itinerary

Tour Highlights

• Scenic Himalayan flight with views of Everest and sacred peaks 

• Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Explore historic Dzongs (fortress-monasteries)

• Visit Punakha Dzong at the river confluence

• Walk through Phobjikha Valley, home of black-necked cranes

• Experience Bhutanese village life and cuisine

• Discover Thimphu’s cultural landmarks and spiritual sites

• Stay in traditional farmhouses and boutique hotels

Day 1

Arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the most scenic landings in the world, with sweeping views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Jomolhari. After meeting your guide, transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, following river valleys and forested landscapes.

In the afternoon, visit the National Memorial Chorten, a key spiritual site where locals gather daily for prayer and rituals. Continue to the General Post Office, known for Bhutan’s beautifully designed stamps, before exploring the Craft Bazaar, showcasing traditional Bhutanese textiles, handicrafts, and artisan work.

This first day allows for acclimatisation while offering a gentle introduction to Bhutan’s culture, spirituality, and daily life.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 2

After breakfast, drive from Thimphu to Punakha, one of Bhutan’s most scenic regions. En route, stop at Dochula Pass (3,100m), famous for its 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views on clear days.

Descending into the warmer Punakha Valley, visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, set among rice fields and linked to Bhutanese folklore.

After a traditional farm lunch, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. End the day with a walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, offering views of lush valleys and river landscapes.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 3

Travel deeper into central Bhutan, passing through Wangdue Phodrang and ascending to Pele La Pass (3,423m), one of the country’s highest motorable passes.

The journey offers changing landscapes, from subtropical valleys to alpine forests, with panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. Arrive in Trongsa, historically the seat of Bhutan’s royal power, and settle into your hotel.

This day marks the transition from western Bhutan to its more remote and less explored central regions.

Overnight: Trongsa

Day 4

After a short exploration of Trongsa Dzong, drive to Riotala, the starting point of the Nabji Korphu Trek.

Begin with a descent through forested trails to the Mangde Chhu River, followed by a steady climb to Nimshong village, a traditional settlement surrounded by mountains.

Along the way, watch for wildlife such as deer and macaques, and enjoy expansive views over the Mangde Valley. The day ends at a campsite near the village, offering a first taste of Bhutan’s rural life.

Overnight: Nimshong village

Day 5

Today’s trek takes you through lush broadleaf forests, rich in biodiversity and birdlife. This section of the trail offers opportunities to spot rare species such as the Golden Langur and Rufous-necked Hornbill.

Arrive at Nabji village, an important cultural site linked to Guru Padmasambhava. Visit the local temple, which marks a historic peace agreement between ancient kingdoms.

Settle into a campsite surrounded by rice fields, where the peaceful atmosphere reflects the rhythm of rural Bhutanese life.

Overnight: Nabji

Day 6

Hike uphill to Korphu village, perched on a ridge with panoramic views over forested valleys. The trail offers a mix of shaded forest paths and open viewpoints.

In Korphu, visit the village temple, which houses sacred relics connected to Bhutanese spiritual traditions. Enjoy a traditional lunch in the village and experience daily life in this remote community.

Return to Nabji for the night, with time to relax and absorb the quiet surroundings.

Overnight: Nabji

Day 7

Continue trekking through dense forests filled with towering trees, orchids, and bamboo groves. The trail passes waterfalls and remote natural landscapes rarely seen by visitors.

This area is known for its rich wildlife habitat, including species such as leopards and tigers (rarely seen, but signs are present).

Arrive at Kubdra village, home to the Monpa community, one of Bhutan’s indigenous groups. Overnight at a campsite in the forest.

Overnight: Kubdra village

Day 8

Trek towards Jangbi village, passing through pristine forest and sacred sites associated with Guru Rinpoche, including footprints and relic locations.

Stop at Phrumzur village temple, offering panoramic views over the valley. Continue through forest trails before reaching your campsite near Jangbi, overlooking the Mangde Chhu River.

This is one of the most scenic and spiritually significant days of the trek.

Overnight: Jangbi

Day 9

Descend steeply through forest trails to the Mangde Chhu River, crossing a bridge before climbing towards Tongtongfey.

From here, transfer by vehicle back to Trongsa. If time allows, visit Kuenga Rabten Palace or a local nunnery en route.

Return to hotel accommodation after several days in the wilderness.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 10

Drive back towards Thimphu, once again crossing Dochula Pass and enjoying panoramic Himalayan views.

In Thimphu, revisit key cultural landmarks or explore local markets, offering another perspective on Bhutan’s capital after your trekking experience.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 11

Visit the impressive Buddha Dordenma Statue, overlooking Thimphu Valley, before stopping at Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses.

Continue to Paro, where you will visit Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum of Bhutan, providing insight into Bhutanese history, art, and culture.

Overnight: Paro

Day 12

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, perched dramatically at 3,120 metres above Paro Valley.

The trail passes through pine forests and prayer-flag-lined paths, with several viewpoints along the way. The monastery is deeply significant in Bhutanese Buddhism, associated with Guru Padmasambhava.

After the hike, return to Paro and enjoy time exploring local markets.

Overnight: Paro

Day 13

Travel through Bhutan’s central valleys, stopping in Trongsa to visit Ta Dzong Museum, which showcases Bhutanese history and royal heritage.

Continue through scenic landscapes towards Punakha, with changing terrain and mountain views throughout the journey.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 14

Return to Paro, retracing the route through mountain passes and valleys.

Visit Paro Dzong and explore the National Museum, deepening your understanding of Bhutan’s cultural and historical identity.

Overnight: Paro

Day 15

Optional second visit to Tiger’s Nest or a relaxed day in Paro.

Explore local markets, traditional shops, and Bhutanese cuisine, offering a slower, reflective end to your journey.

Overnight: Paro

Plan Your Bhutan Journey

Ready to explore Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual heartland?

Enquire now to customise your Western Bhutan Tour and begin your journey into one of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about My Asia Tours in Bhutan

What is the Nabji Korphu Trek in Bhutan?

The Nabji Korphu Trek is a low-altitude cultural trekking route in central Bhutan, combining forest trails, remote villages, wildlife and spiritual sites. It is one of Bhutan’s most immersive treks, offering both nature and cultural experiences. 

Is the Nabji Korphu Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Nabji Korphu Trek is considered one of Bhutan’s best treks for beginners. It avoids high altitudes and focuses on moderate walking distances, making it accessible while still offering a full Himalayan trekking experience.

How long is the Nabji Korphu Trek?

The full itinerary typically lasts 15–16 days, with around 5–6 days of trekking through villages such as Nimshong, Nabji, Korphu, Kubdra and Jangbi, as outlined in the itinerary. 

What wildlife can you see on the Nabji Korphu Trek?

The trek passes through protected forest areas where travellers may encounter rare species such as the Golden Langur, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and a variety of birdlife. The region is also home to larger wildlife such as leopards and tigers, although sightings are rare.

What makes the Nabji Korphu Trek unique?

Unlike high-altitude treks, the Nabji Korphu Trek focuses on cultural immersion and biodiversity. It connects remote villages, ancient temples, and forest ecosystems, offering a more authentic and less commercialised Bhutan trekking experience.

Do you visit Tiger’s Nest on this trek?

Yes, the itinerary includes a hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) in Paro, one of Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred landmarks, usually towards the end of the journey. 

What type of accommodation is provided?

The tour combines hotel stays in major towns such as Thimphu and Paro with campsite accommodation during the trek, allowing travellers to experience both comfort and nature.

When is the best time to do the Nabji Korphu Trek?

The best time is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when weather conditions are stable, skies are clear, and wildlife activity is higher.

Is this trek physically demanding?

The trek is considered moderate, with daily walking times ranging from 3 to 7 hours. It does not involve extreme altitude, making it less physically demanding than other Himalayan treks.

Why book the Nabji Korphu Trek with a local operator?

Bhutan requires travel through licensed operators, and booking with a specialist ensures:

• Proper permits and logistics

• Experienced guides

• Cultural interpretation

• Safe and well-organised trekking

This is especially important in remote regions like the Nabji Korphu trail.