A popular short trek in Bhutan which goes through high altitude and is moderately strenuous. The trek starts from Thimphu and ends in Paro, passing through some beautiful high Altitude lakes about 3800m. It is not only a trek in the land of Dragon but also a cultural experience in Bhutan as it involves couple of day tours.
Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Paro
Transfer to airport and fly to Paro and transfer to the hotel. After lunch, visit Drukgyel Dzong, the fort of the victorious Drukpas and Ta Dzong, originally the Watch Tower for the Rinpung Dzong. Overnight at hotel.
Day 02: Excursion to Taktsang Monastery
Drive to the foot of the Taktsang cliff before walking uphill for 2 hours to reach this Taksang monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ as legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava flew to this spot on the back of a tigress in the eight century. After lunch, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Dzong. Overnight at hotel.
Day 03: Paro - Jele Dzong 2576m. (Trek start) approx. 7kms
The trail is gradual uphill climb till the camp and weather permitting; a glorious view of Paro Valley with the backdrop of snowcapped mountains can be seen. Over night at tent.
Day 04: Jele Dzong - Jangchulakha 2879m. approx. 10kms
The trail begins with about an hour and half’s climb through thick alpine forest and dwarf rhododendron tress. As it is a forest camp you may see yaks and herders around your campsite. Over night at tent.
Day 05: Jangchulakha - Jimilangtso 3130m. approx. 11kms
The trail goes along the ridge with beautiful vistas of mountains and valleys on clear days. The campsite is close to the Lake Jimilangtso . These lakes are known for their giant sized trout and if lucky you may enjoy a well-prepared trout for dinner.
Day 06: Jimilangtso - Simkota 3490m. approx. 11kms
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and the lake of Janetso . You may come across some yak herder’s camps where you will get a glimpse of the life of a nomad. The campsite is close to Simkota Lake and if you are lucky, you can enjoy trout fishing. Over night at tent.
Day 07: Simkota - Phajoding 2880m. approx. 10kms
The trek begins with a gradual climb with a spectacular view of Mount “Gangkhar Punsum”, the highest mountain in Bhutan as well other Himalayan mountain ranges from the Dochula pass. Descend from here to Phajoding. Over night at tent.
Day 08: Phajoding – Thimphu 2449m. (trek ends) approx. 8kms
The trail is downhill all the way to Thimphu , looping through thick blue pine forests. The walk, at a leisurely pace, takes about three hours. Back to hotel for a hot shower and a delicious lunch. Over night at hotel.
Day 09: Thimphu Sightseeing
After breakfast, visit the memorial temple, the folk heritage museum, textile museum and the Zilukha Nunnery. Drive up to the highest viewpoint overlooking Thimphu valley and while returning, the Takin research center. Overnight at hotel.
Day 10: Thimpu – Paro - Departure
Early breakfast and transfer to Paro airport for further destination flight and farewell.
Tour cost: USD 1910 (1-3 person) and USD 1725 (4-12 person)
Single supplements charge: USD 180
Note: One person half of the tour cost for 12-14 person and group leader free of tour cost above 15 person.
Flight cost: It depends on the sector and USD 448 round trip if kathmandu sector
Visa: USD 20 and TDF: USD 10
Tour cost includes: Royalty fee, accommodation, all meals, sightseeing tours by private coaches, service of experienced and English speaking guide, all transportation within Bhutan, entrance fee to the monuments, permits, during trekking-all camping/kitchen gears, ponies or yaks for transportation of gears, trekking guide and cook etc.
Tour cost excludes: Bhutan visa fee, TDF, airfares, expense of personal nature travel insurance, drinks, cigarettes, laundry, telephone call and tipping etc.
