Solo Wildlife Adventure in Bhutan's Phobjikha Valley

Finding Peace on the Shasila Nature Trail

Today was a day of deep connection with nature and the local culture of Phobjikha Valley. From the misty trails to the warm hospitality, every moment felt like a step further into the heart of Bhutan. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable for the unknown, swapping my cozy Banff home for the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Pangkhab restaurant jungomlo. The restaurant was conveniently located and a great way to kick off the morning. Fuelled with traditional Bhutanese fare, I set out for the Shasila Nature Trail. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a familiar comfort that reminded me of the forests back home in Norway. As I started my trek, I couldn't help but miss Liam. He would have loved this hike. I made a mental note to bring him back here someday. The Shasila Nature Trail is known for being used by the people of Sha Ngawang and Chitokha to migrate between their summer and winter homes in Gangtey. It's also known as a great place for bird watching. It was so peaceful and quiet as I made my way along the trail. I could hear the wind rustling through the trees and the birds singing in the distance.


Explore the stunning Shasila Nature Trail in Phobjikha, Bhutan, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife offer an unforgettable hiking experience.

The trail wound through dense forests, opening occasionally to reveal breathtaking views of the valley below. I paused frequently, camera in hand, trying to capture the play of light and shadow on the landscape. The valley was so green and lush and I could see the mountains in the distance. This is exactly why I came to Bhutan. The trail wasn't too difficult, but it was definitely a good workout. I was glad I had my hiking boots on and my camera ready to capture all the beauty around me. I even managed to capture a few shots of some unique bird species, a real treat for any wildlife enthusiast.

The best views come after the hardest climb.

After a refreshing morning hike through the Shasila Nature Trail, I made my way to Laksay Kayso. Laksay Kayso offered even more stunning views. I made my way through the area marked 'F6FR+2R7', following the signs indicating the hiking trails. The panoramic vistas were breathtaking and I took the time to sit and absorb the beauty of the surrounding mountains. The sun was shining and the sky was blue, which made for a perfect day of hiking.


Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Laksay Kayso in Chemaito, where adventure meets the serene beauty of Bhutan's landscapes.

By lunchtime, I had worked up quite an appetite. I headed to K. B RESTAURANT (Thali Special) for a Thali Special. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike. I was seated at a table near the window and ordered the Thali Special, which was a variety of traditional Bhutanese dishes served on a single platter. The food was delicious and the portions were generous. It was a great way to sample a variety of Bhutanese flavors. I especially enjoyed the Ema Datshi, a spicy chili and cheese dish that is a staple in Bhutanese cuisine. It was the perfect blend of spicy and savory, and I couldn't get enough of it. I was also impressed by the freshness of the ingredients, which were all locally sourced. The restaurant had a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for an authentic Bhutanese dining experience. The Thali Special was definitely a standout offering and I savored every bite.


Discover the rich flavors of Bhutan at K. B Restaurant in Wangdue Phodrang—home of the famous Thali special.

After lunch, I decided to explore the local shops. I wanted to find a souvenir to take back home to Liam. I stopped by Migma General Shop, a charming little store in Sawaphu. It was filled with local crafts and trinkets. I ended up buying a small, hand-woven scarf with traditional Bhutanese patterns. I knew Liam would love it. The shopkeeper was a friendly woman who told me about the history of the scarf and the meaning behind the patterns. It was fascinating to learn about the local culture and traditions. I was happy to support the local economy and find a unique souvenir to take back home. I also picked up a few essentials, like an extra camera battery – something I realized I should have packed more of before leaving Banff.


Discover authentic Bhutanese crafts and local treasures at Migma General Shop in Sawaphu, a unique shopping experience for every traveler.

As evening approached, I made my way to Raven Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant is known for blending traditional Bhutanese flavors with modern culinary techniques. The warm and inviting atmosphere made it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. I ordered the chicken curry, which was excellent. The chicken was tender and flavorful, and the curry was perfectly spiced. I also tried the chilli chop, which was a battered chilli dish that was popular with the locals. It was a bit too spicy for my taste, but I still enjoyed it. The restaurant also boasted stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which added to the overall dining experience. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the service was excellent. I felt welcomed and valued as a guest.


Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Raven Restaurant in Khuruthang - where tradition meets taste in an enchanting setting.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. Phobjikha Valley had welcomed me with open arms, offering a glimpse into a world where nature and culture coexist in perfect harmony. I thought about tomorrow’s plan to explore the Gangtey Trail and Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. I am also looking forward to checking out Kuenphen karaoke in the evening, as I heard it's a great place to unwind and have some fun. It's these simple moments of connection that make my journey so fulfilling, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. As I settled in for the night, I knew that this journey was far from over, and I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring.