BHUTAN – Any journey through Bhutan is likely incomplete without adding Phrumsengla National Park to the itinerary. Also known by its abbreviation PNP, this national park is located in the heart of Bhutan, covering a total area of 905 square kilometers.
It is home to 68 rare and endangered mammal species, including tigers, leopards, red pandas, and Malayan giant squirrels. Over time, this park has become one of the most popular attractions in Bhutan. In addition to its rare animal species, the park is renowned for its 620 plant species.
Discover More: Travel Tips for Bhutan.
Introduction to Phrumsengla National Park
Comprising the districts of Bumthang, Lhuentse, Mongar, and Zhemgang, Phrumsengla National Park was established in 1998 and covers a total area of 768 square kilometers.
The park is surrounded by majestic, towering mountains and has become a local and tourist attraction, with the highest peaks reaching 4,000 meters above sea level.
Being at the heart of Bhutan, the park offers impressive landscapes, and this area should be visited at least once in a lifetime.
For those seeking adventure, there are several hiking trails through the forest, which are popular worldwide. They cover vast stretches of lush green forests and open up into a paradise of snow.
There are several reasons for the increasing popularity of the park. It is home to some rare plant species. The alpine mountain forests are common in the north, while the subtropical broadleaf forests are found in the south of the park, making it a diverse landscape.
The animals found here include Himalayan black bears, red pandas, royal Bengal tigers, and snow leopards. Even musk deer and langurs can be spotted here.
Phrumsengla National Park is also considered an ideal spot for birdwatchers, with more than 341 bird species like the Himalayan Monal, black-necked crane, blood pheasant, blue-fronted redstart, red-headed trogon, hornbill, a special flycatcher, and a unique laughing thrush among others.”
Best Time to Visit
This park remains open year-round, allowing visitors ample opportunity to explore it.
However, autumn, especially the months from October to November, is ideal for tourists due to pleasant weather conditions and dry trekking trails.
The period from April to June is another excellent time to visit, with the park covered in a gentle red hue due to beautiful rhododendron blooms.
Entertainment in Phrumsengla National Park
Here are some exciting activities to look forward to when visiting Phrumsengla National Park in Bhutan.
Sightseeing
With its stunning landscapes and high potential for wildlife observation, this park has become a sought-after destination among all tourist spots in Bhutan. It is known for its beautiful trekking trails and natural scenery with views of the Himalayas.
The national highway passes through the national park, making it easy for travelers to access most of the park’s ecological zones.
Besides the breathtaking Bhutanese landscapes, you can spot rare plant and animal species throughout. One popular sightseeing spot in the park is the famous Phrumsengla Pass, which is situated on the highway and offers views of Bhutan’s highest peak, Gangkar Phuensum.
Additionally, visitors can explore Bribdungla, renowned for its hundreds of mountain lakes and alpine meadows on high-altitude plateaus.
Nature Exploration
While in the park, take time to enjoy nature exploration. The rock outcrops not only provide excellent viewpoints but also offer unique memories when you scale them down. On the other hand, the wild waterfalls add a unique touch to the park’s pristine landscapes.
One of the park’s famous waterfalls is Namling Waterfall, drawing tourists from around the world who plan to visit. There are numerous rock faces and waterfalls here that you can include in your exploration, ensuring you create lifelong memories.
Wildlife Watching
You can get up close and personal with wildlife here. Driving along the highway and hiking through national parks is a wonderful experience if you want to get acquainted with rare wildlife species in their natural habitats.
The park is home to Pika, Himalayan black bears, red pandas, and clouded leopards, which can be spotted roaming freely along with the red panda. These animals are not harmful to tourists, but it’s advisable to maintain a safe distance from wild animals.
Trekking
There are many spectacular trekking routes, some with lower elevations, in the area. You can choose according to your preferences. Rhodungla and Bribdungla are popular and internationally renowned mountain trekking routes here.
On the other hand, Kheng Shingkhar and Latongla Treks are popular lower-altitude routes here.
The park’s trekking routes traverse various vegetation zones, lush forests, and potential wildlife habitats. Here are some available trekking routes in the area:
- Rodungla Trek: 4 days and moderate difficulty
- Bribdungla Trek: 5 days and moderate difficulty
- Ura-Shingkhar Trek: 4 days and moderate difficulty
- Omdurpang to Zhongar: 1-2 days
Bird Watching
This park is a perfect spot in Bhutan for bird watchers, often referred to as a paradise for them. Home to many beautiful bird species, every year, it attracts a large number of bird enthusiasts from around the world.
You can spot Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Tragopan pheasants, and other exotic birds here. The ideal time to visit for bird watching is from November to May when migratory and rare bird species also make their way here. However, you can enjoy birdwatching here year-round.
Getting to Phrumsengla National Park
While Phrumsengla National Park is accessible by air and road networks, you can also reach it easily via the East-West Highway.
Apart from using your personal vehicle, you can also get here by direct bus services to Ura or make a stop in Chamkhar. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach Chamkhar. You can also hire a taxi directly from the airport to the park.
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/PNtbAGqKcqgGwPco6
Are you thrilled about hiking in Phrumsengla National Park? Let the towering mountains leave you awestruck as you explore different regions of the park.
Get ready to explore this national park with your family and friends. Visit Phrumsengla National Park for unlimited memories and loads of fun.
Apart from the breathtaking beauty and wildlife, you’ll find the best possible accommodations and quality restaurants within your budget. All the restaurants in and around this park ensure high-quality, fresh, and delicious food in a serene and picturesque environment.
Comments 1