Level: Moderate/Hard
Maximum
altitude: 4200m
Suitable month: March to June & September to November
Day 1: Paro Arrival
Onboard to Paro in Druk Air or Tashi Air, one will have a glimpse of the world’s highest Mountain, Mount Everest, and other Himalayan peaks. Once you arrive at Paro International Airport, representatives will receive you and escort you to the Hotel for an overnight stay. On your way, you will come across a typical Bhutanese settlement pattern – modern town planning at the centre and traditional village settlement at the periphery.
Day 2: Excursion to Taktshang Monastery
Spend one whole day hiking the trails to Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest. This magical monastery hangs from a vertical granite cliff 3000 ft. above the valley floor. Legend says that Guru Padmasambhava flew here from Khengpajong in Lhuentse on the back of a tigress to meditate in the cave. The tigress was actually his favorite consort and a disciple, Yeshe Tsogyel, whom he transformed to a flying tigress for the purpose of this journey. The hike to Taktsang Monastery takes about 4 hours. From the Monastery and the adjacent area, one will have a beautiful view of the Paro valley. After descending from the Monastery, Taktsang Cafeteria is a perfect place for rest and lunch. Then you return for the Hotel at sun set.
Day 3: Paro - Jela Dzong (Trek starts)
This is a short trekking day with approximately 7 km at the elevation of 3576 m. The trek trail is rather gradual till the camp. Scenic Paro valley with snowcapped mountains standing behind the valley floor is the characteristic feature.
Day 4: Jela Dzong - Jangchulakha
Stretching for about 10 km at the elevation of 3879 m, the trek begins with about an hour and half climb and then gradually ascend up the gentle slopes. The trek passes through thick alpine forest and dwarf rhododendron trees. You may see yaks and yak herders along the way and around your campsite.
Day 5: Jangchulakha - Jimilangtso
Covering 11km at the height of 4140 m, the trail follows the ridge. On a clear day the view of the mountains and valley are beautiful. The campsite is close to the Jimilangtso Lake, known for existence of giant trout.
Day 6: Jimilangtso – Simkota/ labana.
At the altitude of 3, 485 m, the trek extends to 11km. The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and Janetso Lake. You may come across some yak herder’s campgrounds where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad’s life. The campsite is close to Simkota Lake, popular for trout fishing. If we go to Labana, we have to go another an hour to reach at Labana for the camp.
Day 7: Simkota/ Labana – Phajodhing-Phajodhing – Thimphu
Requiring a gradual climb through the ridges, the trek is about 10 km at an altitude of 2, 879 m. Under a clear sky, you will have a spectacular view of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and the highest unclimbed in the world. Conquering Dochula Pass, one can also have a view of the Himalayan mountain ranges. From this pass, the trek takes you downhill to Phajodhing. About 8km downhill will take you to the base of the Phajoding, where you will meet with the car to pick you up and go to the hotel for overnight. In the evening, you may walk freely in the town.
Day 8: Thimpu Sightseeing
Having spent almost a week in the forest, urban Bhutan is next to be explored. Visit Tashichho Dzong, the Office of the King, Throne Room, the main secretariat building housing the offices of the government ministries, the office and living quarters of the monk body, and its Chief Abbot. Visit the handicrafts emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts are displayed and available in a variety for purchase. Explore the painting and woodcraft schools for traditional arts, and paintings are kept alive there. Have a view of the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck Memorial Chorten (stupa) built by Lt. Her Majesty, Azhi Phuntsho Choden in memory of his son, the Third King, His Majesty, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the Father of Modern Bhutan, who reigned the Kingdom from 1952-1972. A visit to the National Library will present you with an opportunity to have a look at ancient manuscripts. Driving east for about 6 km from the town will take you to Simtokha Dzong, the oldest Dzong in Bhutan, built in 1629 AD by the great Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. You ride back from the Dzong drive towards Paro for an overnight in the hotel.
Day 9: Departure
After having breakfast, you will be taken to the airport, and we will see you off. Bid Farewell to Bhutan, the Land of Thunder Dragon!
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