A hidden gem in central Bhutan — five days through rarely visited lake terrain, ancient herder camps, and rolling highland ridges with views across the Wangdue and Punakha valleys.
The Nub Tshonapata Trek is one of Bhutan's best-kept secrets — a five-day route through the highland lake country north of Wangdue Phodrang that sees only a fraction of the visitors that the more famous Druk Path or Dagala routes attract. "Nub Tshonapata" means "western lake plain" in Dzongkha, and the name captures the essence of this route perfectly.
The trail climbs from the subtropical valleys of central Bhutan through temperate forest into open alpine terrain, passing a series of pristine lakes at altitude. The high point at 4,500m gives sweeping views south across the Wangdue Phodrang valley and north toward the Himalayan peaks.
This is a wonderful choice for trekkers wanting to experience central Bhutan's highlands without the crowds — a genuinely quiet, meditative route through one of the most peaceful corners of the country.
Drive from Wangdue Phodrang town to the trailhead and begin ascending through mixed subtropical and temperate forest. The first camp at Tikke Zampa sits beside a small stream — the air noticeably cooler than the valley below. The Wangdue Dzong is often visible behind you as you gain elevation.
Continue climbing through rhododendron and fir forest — spectacular in spring when the trees are in full bloom. The forest eventually gives way to open highland meadow at Chari Thang, a wide plateau used by herder communities. First lake views appear along this section, with distant peaks starting to emerge to the north.
The heart of the trek — a full day exploring the Nub Tshonapata lake plain. Walk from lake to lake across this vast, silent highland terrain. The largest lakes mirror the sky and surrounding ridges in extraordinary clarity. The day's high point at 4,500m gives a 360° panorama — south to the Wangdue valley, north toward the Himalaya. Return to camp at Chari Thang.
A long descent on a different route, passing through the small highland settlement of Khotokha — a traditional farming community almost entirely off the tourist trail. The descent through old-growth forest is rewarding, and the contrast from the alpine lakes to the lush farm valley is striking. Camp near the village.
A final easy descent through farmland and terraced rice paddies back toward the Wangdue valley road. A vehicle picks up the group for the transfer to Wangdue Phodrang or nearby Punakha — one of Bhutan's most beautiful valley towns. The Punakha Dzong, at the confluence of two rivers, makes an excellent post-trek cultural visit.