This is a short yet one of the most popular treks in Bhutan that leads from Paro to Thimpu and vice versa. The trek crosses through the chain of maintains that provide gorgeous natural landscape of blue pine forests, pristine Jimiling Lake and high ridges with an opportunity to view amazing ancient lhakhangs, dzongs and villages. The best time to go for this trek is between March-June and September-November.
TRIP DETAILS
Day 01: Arrive Paro
Today, we take an early morning flight and arrive at Paro, where you will be meeting our representative and then you will be transferred to your Hotel once we cover up the formalities. During day, we can go for a general sightseeing. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Paro
The day calls for a full day sightseeing in Paro. So, we drive to Drukgyel Dzong, which was built in 1646. From here, we can also watch the finest views of Mt. Chomolhari. On our way back, we visit, Kyichu Lhakhang, monastery built in the 7th century. These two shrines are the one of the most sacred places in Bhutan.
After lunch, we visit Ta Dzong, which was previously built as a watchtower to protect Rinpung Dzong. In 1968, it was inaugurated as the National Museum. Also, we take a visit to Rinpung Dzong (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), the center of district administration. Rinpung Dzong is also the home of the local monk body. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 03: Paro to Jele Dzong – 2 to 3 hours walk
A short to trek to Jele Dzong is an uphill walk as the trail ascends up to the camp. Snow-capped mountains are visible on the way and move Jele Dzong, where a lhakhang containing a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni can be found. Overnight at camp.
Day 04: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha – 3 to 4 hours walk
Today, we ascend more gradually through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. Mount Chomolhari shines from here and pheasants can be watched on our way here. Overnight at camp.
Day 05: Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho – 3 to 4 hours walk
We follow the ridgeline and capture the views of the mountains and valley. We will be enjoying stunning views of Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro and arrive at Jimilangtsho, where beautiful lake resides. Overnight at camp.
Day 06: Jimilangtsho to Simkota – 3 to 4 hours walk
We walk through dwarf rhododendron trees and pass by the lake in Jimilangtsho. Walking further, we reach Simkota, nearby Simkota Lake. Overnight at camp.
Day 07: Simkota to Phajoding – 3 to 4 hours walk
Beginning with a gradual climb, we catch in the majestic views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum and other peaks. The trail then descends to Phajoding cafeteria. Overnight at camp.
Day 08: Phajoding to Thimphu – 2 to 3 hours walk
We trek downhill all the way to Thimpu along the forested area of blue pine and reach Thimpu. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 09: Excursion at Punakha
We drive to Bhutan’s former capital Punakha and stop at Dochu-la pass (3,088m) to watch in the panoramic views of snowcapped eastern Himalayan peaks. Then, we observe Punakha Dzong, a superb Bhutanese architecture built in 1637, situated at the confluence of two rivers. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 10: Thimphu to Paro
On our way back, we visit the National Library, where an extensive collection of Buddhist literature can be found along with manuscripts dating back several hundred years. Then, we stop by Zorig Chusum (the Painting School); students are trained in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts here. While on our drive to Paro, we will witness the appealing village sides and the lifestyle of local people. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 11: Depart from Paro
We catch our respective flights to our destination enjoying the mountain views from the aircraft. You will be leaving Bhutan and we will be bidding our final farewell hoping to see you again.
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