Step back in time on the 9 Days Ancient Salt Route Trek, a fascinating journey along one of eastern Bhutan's oldest trading paths. Long before modern highways connected Bhutan's eastern districts, traders, yak herders and villagers travelled this historic route carrying salt, silk and other essential goods between the border town of Samdrup Jongkhar and the highland communities of eastern Bhutan. Today, the trail offers an authentic trekking experience through untouched forests, riverside paths, traditional villages and peaceful mountain landscapes that remain largely unchanged by time. The trek covers approximately 90 kilometres and is considered moderate to challenging, making it ideal for adventurous travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. It is best undertaken during March to May and September to November.
Beginning at the India–Bhutan border in Samdrup Jongkhar and finishing in Trashigang, this journey offers a rare opportunity to experience Bhutan's rich trading heritage, rural culture and spectacular natural beauty.
PRICING
per person - SDF INCLUDED Plan This Journey →✓ WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Professional trekking guide and support crew
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Trekking permits and park entry fees
- Camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags
- Pack horses and luggage transport during the trek
- Bhutan visa-processing assistance
9 Days Ancient Salt Route Trek Itinerary
1
Arrival in Guwahati • Transfer to Samdrup Jongkhar
Arrival in Guwahati • Transfer to Samdrup Jongkhar
Arrive at Guwahati International Airport in India, where your guide welcomes you before the scenic drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhutan's eastern gateway.
After completing immigration formalities, settle into your hotel and explore this lively border town, historically known as an important trading centre connecting Bhutan with the Indian plains.
Highlights- Airport welcome
- Scenic border crossing
- Samdrup Jongkhar
- Traditional market
- Welcome dinner
2
Samdrup Jongkhar to Nelang • Trek to Rading
Samdrup Jongkhar to Nelang • Trek to Rading
After breakfast, drive to Nelang, where your trekking adventure begins.
Descend to the beautiful Duri River, following peaceful riverside trails through lush forests while crossing a series of traditional wooden log bridges before reaching the spacious campsite at Rading, surrounded by pristine nature.
Highlights- Trek begins
- Duri River
- Traditional log bridges
- Forest trails
- Rading campsite
3
Rading to Mongling
Rading to Mongling
Begin with a rewarding climb through broad-leaved forests to Dotak, a scenic mountain ridge offering impressive views across eastern Bhutan.
Continue through peaceful alpine meadows before arriving at Mongling, where panoramic views stretch across surrounding valleys and forested hills.
Highlights- Mountain ascent
- Dotak viewpoint
- Forest landscapes
- Mongling
- Scenic campsite
4
Mongling to Demrizam
Mongling to Demrizam
Follow gentle mountain trails with spectacular views of Pemagatshel Valley.
Along the way, visit Yongla Gonpa, a historic monastery renowned for its annual religious festival, and continue to Jangchup Chorten before arriving at Demrizam for the evening.
Highlights- Pemagatshel views
- Yongla Gonpa
- Jangchup Chorten
- Traditional villages
- Demrizam
5
Demrizam to Denchung
Demrizam to Denchung
Today's trail follows ancient trading paths through forests and peaceful valleys.
Cross the impressive Tonglingdrang Suspension Bridge, then continue beside the beautiful Khaling River before reaching the riverside campsite at Denchung.
Highlights- Historic trade trail
- Tonglingdrang Suspension Bridge
- Khaling River
- Forest trekking
- Denchung campsite
6
Denchung to Cheya
Denchung to Cheya
Walk alongside the tranquil Khaling River before beginning one of the trek's most rewarding climbs through fragrant pine forests.
Arrive at the peaceful campsite near Cheya Tsho, a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by quiet woodland and open meadows.
Highlights- Khaling River
- Pine forests
- Mountain lake
- Cheya Tsho
- Scenic campsite
7
Cheya to Trashigang
Cheya to Trashigang
Complete the final trekking stage with magnificent views over eastern Bhutan.
Descend gradually toward Trashigang, Bhutan's largest eastern district, where your hotel awaits after successfully completing the Ancient Salt Route.
Highlights- Final trekking day
- Mountain scenery
- Rural villages
- Arrival in Trashigang
- Hotel stay
8
Explore Trashigang
Explore Trashigang
Spend the day discovering Bhutan's cultural centre of the east.
Visit the historic Trashigang Dzong, explore traditional markets, browse local handicrafts and learn about the unique customs and heritage of eastern Bhutan.
Highlights- Trashigang Dzong
- Local markets
- Traditional handicrafts
- Eastern Bhutan culture
- Leisure afternoon
9
Return to Guwahati
Return to Guwahati
After breakfast, drive back through Samdrup Jongkhar and continue to Guwahati International Airport for your onward journey.
Depart with unforgettable memories of Bhutan's ancient trade routes, remote villages and authentic eastern Himalayan culture.
Highlights- Scenic drive
- Border crossing
- Airport transfer
- Departure assistance
× WHAT'S EXCLUDED
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Personal expenses and laundry
- Optional activities not listed
- Gratuities for guides, trekking crew and driver
✓ Why You'll Love This Retreat
The 9 Days Ancient Salt Route Trek offers a rare opportunity to experience a lesser-known side of Bhutan. Walking along centuries-old trading paths once travelled by merchants carrying salt and silk, you'll discover remote villages, cross traditional bridges, camp beneath star-filled skies and connect with the timeless culture of eastern Bhutan. Rich in history, natural beauty and authentic local encounters, this unforgettable journey reveals a fascinating chapter of Bhutan's living heritage.
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