Traversing the Trans Bhutan Trail
We survived the cold night and were up early (what’s new?). We awaited our rice breakfast which also included eggs, potatoes (protein, yes!) and corn on the cob. We loaded into the car and headed towards a “shortcut” that our guide learned of from our host, Kinley, as to avoid going down that dangerous road.... Continue Reading →
Our day started before dawn as we got up to watch the sunrise. Although this is a beautiful spot any time of day. The sun lighting up the snow-capped Himalayas We enjoyed a quiet breakfast, packed our things and started our walk. We walked about a kilometer towards the Dochula Pass (altitude 10,200 feet) and... Continue Reading →
We were up with the sun again. Got ourselves packed and ready to move on. After our simple breakfast we were picked up and taken to the trail. Instead of starting at the giant Buddha and doing a bunch of city walking in Thimphu, we bypassed that and started a bit farther ahead. Today’s starting... Continue Reading →
We arose early and organized for our day. Hotel breakfast was not really ready at 7:00 but we made do with what they had and our ride picked us up at 7:30. After the hour long drive back to the trail, we set off. We headed through a farm and we immediately started rock hopping... Continue Reading →
Up early. What’s new? After a quick breakfast, we packed up and said goodbye to the Hotel Olathang and hit the road. Lhab ordered some food for lunch so we picked that up and made the drive back up the mountain to return to the trail. Today’s starting altitude was just around 9,000 feet. And... Continue Reading →
We slept a little better and were up with the sun. After a bit of breakfast we got ready and met our guide at 8:00. We returned to the trail and immediately started walking through rice fields. Rice fields both growing and harvested Marijuana grows wild here but don’t smoke it. It’s illegal We then... Continue Reading →
As we were descending the mountain today, Joan reminded me of the many peregrinos who walk the Camino de Santiago (Frances route) who lament how hard it is crossing the Pyrenees on the first day of that path. We laughed. You think that’s hard? Come walk the Trans Bhutan Trail. The Camino is a cake... Continue Reading →
Sleeping was a bit wacky as our internal clocks are trying to figure out what is going on. We were up early and got ourselves packed. We went and had a simple breakfast of eggs, toast, coffee and juice. Our guide, Lhab, arrived promptly and we were off at eight. We had a 15 minute... Continue Reading →
We were only able to sleep for about four to five hours and we were up way too early at the airport hotel. At 5:30 a.m. the breakfast was being served so we went and partook of some normal breakfast items and some local Indian fare. We then hung out in our room for a... Continue Reading →
RDU to JFK. American Airlines, we don’t usually fly AA. Long layover in NY. Then JFK to DEL ( India). 15 hour flight! Immigration and security at Delhi airport a bit crazy. Staying in the hotel in the Airport. Tomorrow morning we fly to Bhutan. Just realized this is the farthest we’ve ever been away... Continue Reading →
Ed & Joan Walk in Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon 