Page introduction
The Wild East Rodung La Trek follows an old route from Bumthang into Lhuentse. It begins around Tangbi, passes Ngang Lhakhang and Phephe La towards Ugyen Choling, then continues through Phokpe and across Rodung La before descending steeply via Pemi and Ungaar to Autsho. Mossy forest, historic trail connections and a dramatic transition into warmer eastern valleys define the experience.
Quick facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 days |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Maximum elevation | 4,160 m |
| Best season | April–May; October–November |
| Route | Tangbi → Ngang Lhakhang → Phephe La → Ugyen Choling → Phokpe → Rodung La → Pemi → Ungaar → Autsho |
| Best suited to | Fit trekkers interested in old trade routes and eastern Bhutan |
Highlights
- Extend beyond the Bumthang Cultural Trek onto a historic eastern route.
- Cross both Phephe La and the higher Rodung La.
- Walk through dense, mossy forest and remote valleys.
- Descend into Lhuentse’s warmer landscapes and traditional settlements.
Indicative itinerary
- Tangbi to Ngang Lhakhang: Follow the cultural landscape of Bumthang.
- Ngang Lhakhang across Phephe La: Cross forested high ground towards the Tang Valley.
- Ugyen Choling area: Explore the heritage landscape and prepare for the remote eastern stages.
- Ugyen Choling to Phokpe: Enter deeper forest and old trail country.
- Phokpe to the Rodung La approach: Climb towards the main pass.
- Cross Rodung La: Complete the highest crossing and begin the eastern descent.
- Descend to Pemi: Follow steep forest paths into lower country.
- Pemi to Ungaar: Reach settled agricultural landscapes.
- Ungaar to Autsho: Finish at the road connection for onward travel in Lhuentse.
Difficulty and preparation
The route is non-technical but remote, with two passes, long forest stages and a steep descent that can be hard on knees. Trekking poles are useful. Rain can make roots and leaf-covered ground slippery, while the change in elevation requires clothing for both cold camps and warm valleys.
Frequently asked questions
Is it related to the Bumthang Cultural Trek? Yes. The opening shares similar country around Ngang Lhakhang, Phephe La and Ugyen Choling, then continues much farther east across Rodung La.
Why choose this over a western Bhutan trek? It offers a true central-to-east journey, fewer visitors and insight into historic connections between Bumthang and Lhuentse.