Trip Length: 9 days
Activity Level: Moderate

This is a relatively short, moderate grade trek leading from Paro valley to Thimphu valley, crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys.

Trip Details

Season
April – June and September – November

Weather
Temperatures will vary greatly based on our altitude and current weather. Ranges from high 70’s, low 30’s. Climate is normally warm during daytime but nights can be pretty cold in winter with temperatures falling below freezing level. Monsoon does shower in summer (heaviest in July, August) and sometimes even in spring and autumn.

9-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival by Drukair to Paro Airport
During the flight in to Paro Airport, enjoy the view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan Mountains including the sacred Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drakey. Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will be greeted by a representative of Bhutan Himalayan Experience and transported to your comfortable hotel.

Day 2 – Sightseeing in Paro
Drive through the winding road northwest up the Pa-chu to Drugyel Dzong, the ruined Fortress, which once defended the valley of Paro from the Tibetan invasion and was later consolidated to commemorate the victory over the Tibetan invaders in the 17th century. From the Fortress, the Mt. Jomolhari, the sacred summit can be viewed on clear days. On the way back, visit a typical Bhutanese Farmhouse. After lunch, drive to Ta-Dzong to visit the National Museum and later walk down hill, passing Paro Dzong and crossing the typical traditional Bhutanese roofed bridge to Paro town. Overnight Stay at a Hotel.

Day 3 – Paro to Jele Dzong
Jele Dzong is 10 km. from Paro town at an altitude of 11,600 ft. This is a short trekking day. The trek trail is a gradual climb till the camp and if the weather is clear, Paro valley can be seen canvassed by the Mount Jomolhari and other snowcapped Mountains in the serene azure blue sky. Camp at Jele Dzong.

Day 4 – Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha
Jangchulakha is 10 km. from Jele Dzong and it is at an altitude of 11,900 ft. From here, you begin with about an hour and a half and climb up the mountain. The trail takes you through thick alpine forest and through Rhododendron trees. You are likely to come across Yak herders at your campsites. Camp at Jangchulakha.

Day 5 – Jangchulakha to Jimilangtso
It is about 11 km. from Jangchulakha and it is at an altitude of 12,160 ft. The trail follows the ridge and on clear days, the view of the mountains and valleys are exotic. Camp close to the Lake of Jimilangtso. These Lakes are known for their giant-sized Trout and if lucky, you may enjoy a well-prepared trout for your dinner.

Day 6 – Jimilangtso to Phajoding
It is a gradual climb from Jimilangtso to Phajoding. On the way, you will cross the lake of Janetso to Simkota. Phajoding is at an altitude of 11,600 ft. If weather permits, you will have a beautiful view of Mount Gangkhar Punsum 7554 meters, one of the highest mountains in the Himalayan Range. Overnight halt in camp at Phajoding.

Day 7 – Phajoding to Thimphu
The entire Thimphu City can be viewed from Phajoding. After breakfast, you will descend gradually to Thimphu through Motithang. At Motithang, you will be received and driven to the hotel for lunch. After lunch, sightseeing in and around Thimphu.

Day 8 – Sightseeing in Thimphu
Till lunch, sightseeing in Thimphu and after lunch, drive to Paro passing the beautiful valley of Thimphu and it’s satellite villages. Overnight at Paro.

Day 9 – Departure
Drive to Paro Airport for departure by Drukair.