Formidable snowman trek (I)

Formidable Snow Man Trek (Paro to Bumthang: 24-day trek) 

Trip length: 29 nights and 30 days 

Level: moderate to Difficult Level: 5-8/10 

Maximum altitude: 5700m approximately 

Suitable month: Season: Mid-June – November. 

Snowman trek is considered "the most difficult trek in the world" because of the extreme altitudes, distances, weather, and remoteness. It starts from Drugyel Dzong, but now, because of the road, we start from Shana, the end of the road, along Jumolhari, Laya, and Lingzhi, the highest district in the kingdom. Trek takes 24 or more, depending on the ability of the trekkers. The average walk is six hours, and the average campsite altitude is over 14,600 feet. 

Day 1: Paro arrival. 

Aboard the flight to Paro, the sight of Mt. Everest, Mt. Jomolhari, and Jichu Drake is a welcoming note for you. Upon landing, you will be received and transferred to the Hotel by our representative. After lunch, visit the Paro Dzong, built in 1646 housing the monastic body and administrative machinery. Later, you visit Kyichhu Lhakhang, one of the oldest lhakhangs in the country, built in the 7th century. In the evening, walk freely in the town! An overnight hotel will be in Paro. 

Day 2: Hike to Taktshang 

After breakfast, start the day’s excursion to Taktshang, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a vertical granite rock, 900m above the Paro Valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche came to the site of the Monastery on the back of a Tigress to meditate. Have the spectacular view of Paro Valley from the temple. Descend for lunch at Taktshang Cafeteria. Return to Paro in the evening, and the night will be spent in the Hotel in Paro. 

Day 3: Paro – Thangthangkha (3597masl) 

Drive to Gunitshawa and walk along the river valley, which gradually becomes narrower and closes in after some distance. The winding trail with frequent climbs and descents leads us to our campsite in a meadow in tents at 3, 600m. By then, we will have trekked about 23km in 6 to 7 hours. 

Day 4: Thangthangkha – Jangothang (4100masl). 

Continue the trail along the Pachhu, and the valley opens again after crossing a small army outpost. Trekking through the open valley affords a view of high ridges and the snow-capped mountains with yaks and a yak herder’s camp on the valley floor. Trekking 15km of trek within 5 to 6 hours will find us near the ruined fortress at the base of Mt. Jomolhari at 4040m. Camp here for the night! 

Day 5: Jangothang Halt (4100masl) 

Hike to Tshophu, which is 2 hours walk from Jangothang, come back to the camp and take rest to prepare for the next day. 

Day 6: Jangothang – Lingshi (4010 masl) 

Climb gradually toward the Nelila (4890m) pass through a wide pastureland. On your way, depending on the season you are trekking, you will find some yak herders in their camps. Descending from the pass to Lingshi, you will have a beautiful view of Lingshi Dzong, the Valley, Tserim Kang (Mountain), and its glaciers. At 4010 m, camp in the tent! By then, we will have covered 19km of trail within 6 to 7hours of trek. 

Day 7: Lingshi – Chebisa (3870masl) 

Today is the shortest of all days on our trip. Upon reaching Chebisa at 3, 850 m, having trekked for 3 to 4 hours covering 12km of trail, camp alongside the village settlement. You can visit the village houses and feel the Bhutanese rural life experiences. 

Day 8: Chebisa – Shomuthang (4210masl) 

Trekking through a wide pastureland will lead up to Gobu La Pass, approximately 4400 m. Along the way, you find some yak herders. Conquering Gobu La Pass, descend into the valley. The campsite will be above a riverbank, a tributary of the Mochhu River at an elevation of 4, 260m. By then, we will have trekked 17km in 5 to 6 hours of time. 

Day 9: Shomuthang – Robluthang (4070masl) 

We start early for the trek, which is a little strenuous. Upon crossing the Jerela Pass at 4, 600m, descend to Tsharijathang Valley, where you can see the herds of Takin, the National Animal of Bhutan. Camp at Tsharijathang at 4, 390m after having trekked from 15km for 6 to 7 hours! 

Day 10: Robluthang – Lingmithang (4120masl). 

Cross the Shingela Pass at 4, 900m, you take a downhill trek following the valley. Lingmithang, a beautiful village under Laya Village, offers an opportunity to see people dressed in typical Laya costume with long bamboo hats on their heads. Camp at Lingmithang at an elevation of 4, 140m after a day-long trek of 6 to 7 hours covering 19 km of the trail. 

Day 11: Lingmithang – Laya (3890masl) 

The trek for the day is a downhill walk along the narrow winding river valley. The trail leads you to the west side of the Laya Village. At an elevation of 3, 850m, the campsite is on a high flat bench above the village or in the village. The trek stretches for about 10 km, requiring 3 to 4 hours of normal trekking. 

Day 12: Laya (Halt) 3890masl 

Let’s rest and go around the villages and explore the houses and the people. Layaps are ever welcoming and will readily pose for photographs if you aspire to have one. Their dress is very typical and particularly of women with bamboo hats decorated with turquoise and silver ornaments, making them more special. In the evening, you get to be part of the cultural event with local girls performing dances. 

Day 13: Laya – Rodhuphu (4220masl) 

After descending for a while, we reach the army camp. We continue following the river till the turn-off point to Rhoduphu. After lunch, we pass through lush rhododendrons till we reach at camp at an altitude of 4, 350m. By then, we will have trekked for about 8 to 9 hours. 

 Day 14: Rodhuphu – Narithang (4930masl) 

The trail leads most of the time up hills through draft rhododendrons bushes and barren areas with lots of ups and downs. We cross TSHOMO LA (4780m) and descend to the campsite at Narithang (4500m). Where we will also see the yak herders have their camp during their summer, and it is just under or near to Gangla Karchung 6395m. Overnight at camp. 

Day 15: Narithang to Tarina (4040masl) 

We start as early because today is the long stretch that we have to trek. We climb to Karchung La at 5150m and conquer the summit from where one can have a splendid view of Tari Gang at 7300m. Karchung la or gangla Karchung is the point where the two main rivers are divided. The front part of the pass is the start point of the mochu (female) river at Punakha, and the back side is the place where the phochu (male) river starts. The trails are not as easy as we think. In the morning session, we climb, and after crossing the Karchung La, we have to descend very deep to the river bed, and the climb down is very steep and must be very careful. Trekking through this trail offers a unique opportunity to reflect on how Bhutanese people are suffering through such paths without any proper path. 

Day 16: Tarina – Woche (4200 masl) 

We trek downhill, taking us through the coniferous forest, following the upper ridges of the Phochhu. Then, the trail climbs over a ridge and drops to Woche at an elevation of 3, 800m. After 6 to 7 hours of walking, camp here for the night. 

Day 17: Woche – Lhedi (3780masl) 

The trek starts through juniper and fir forests, gradually entering rhododendrons. Climb up to Keche La Pass at 4480m, where one can have a great view of the surrounding mountains. After the Pass, descend to the riverside, walking through the village, enjoying the scenic view of the mountains roofing the valley. Follow the river leading up to Lhedi Village, where one of the main sources of Phochhu begins. Camp at an altitude of 3, 650m! 

Day 18: Lhedi – Thanza (4150masl) 

The trek continues along the bank of the river, ascending gradually to Chozo Village. Cross the bridge, and after 6 to 7 hours of trek, we reach Thanza at 4, 000m for we camp. 

Day 19: Thanza (Halt) 4150masl 

We take a rest for a day by exploring near by lakes and mountains. It will provide a refreshing break to rejuvenate you for rest of the trek. 

Day 20: Thanza- Tshorim (eight to nine hours, camp altitude 5,120m). 

Having chosen the route to Bumthang, the trek starts by climbing a ridge with a great view of Table Mountain and Thanza valley below. The ridge altitude is 4,500m, and it rises gradually up to 4,650m. After lunch, walk upwards towards the left side of the bridge to enjoy the view of snow-capped mountains. You reach the campsite of Tshorim after climbing more ridges. 

Day 21: Tshorim – Zanam (Sernam) (six to seven hours, camp altitude 4,970m). 

This is one of the highlights of the trek, and the day starts with a short climb to the Tshorim Thso. You walk on the side of the lake, enjoying a panoramic view of the Gophu La ranges. The last climb to the Gophu La pass (5,470m) is very short. After the pass descends to the base camp, walking along the ridge to enjoy a great view of Gangkhar Puensum. If interested, one can divert to the left side to climb up the Pyramid Peak for a better view, or you can go down to the base camp nearby Sha Chhu. 

Day 22: zanam – Menchung gang (six to seven hours, camp altitude 4,200m) 

The trail further follows the Sha Chhu and descends gradually to Menchu Gang. 

Day 23: Menchu Gang– Warathang (7-8 hours, camp altitude 4,000m) 

After breakfast, start the trail with a gentle slope for 30mins and then it starts stiff climb to Phodrang La begins. Visibility along the Phodrang La trail is poor, so one must see the top of the ridge for guidance. After having lunch near a yak herder’s camp, you climb up to Sake la/ saga La (4,800m). The path then descends to a couple of lakes, and another short ascent is stunning. The scenery once again is beautiful with small lakes and the mountain peaks. 

Day 24: Warathang -Duer Tsachu (five hours, camp altitude 3,590m). 

An hour climb leads to Nephu la (4,600m). After the pass, you descend to the riverside through dense rhododendron, juniper and conifer forests. After the bridge a short climb leads to Duer Tsachu. These hot springs, where Guru Padmasambhava is supposed to have taken bath, might be the most stunningly beautiful hot springs of the Himalayas. You might want to spend an extra day at Duer Tsachu. 

Day 25: Duer Tsachu – Tshochenchen (eight to nine hours, camp altitude 3,850m). 

From the hot springs, it is a long and steady climb again with great views of the mountains in Lunana. You will also come across blue lakes and yak herder huts. 

Day 26: Tshochenchen – Duer Village/ Bumthang. 

This is the last day of the trek, and your porter changes from yaks to horses. The path follows the Chamkhar Chhu, descending gradually with a few climbs in between. The trek ends here when you arrive at Duer village. From here, you drive to Jakar (Bumthang). 

Day 27: Bumthang rest day. 

Bumthang local sightseeing: Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Tamzhing Lhakhang, Wangdue Choeling Palace, and free time in town later in the evening. Overnight at the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a Bhutanese hot stone bath to make you feel more relieved from the trek. 

Day 28: Bumthang to Thimphu via Trongsa. 

Bumthang to Thimphu will take us about a 7-8-hour drive; on the way, we may take some stops for photos, lunch, and washrooms. Overnight at the Hotel. 

Day 29: Thimphu to Paro 

Visit and circumambulate the Memorial Chorten built in memory of the Third King, the Father of Modern Bhutan. Make a short trip to the Indigenous Hospital, the School of Arts and Crafts, and see the living arts of Bhutan. Visit Trashichodzong, the Throne Room, and the seat of the Chief Abbot of the Central Monastic Body. Pay a visit to Changgang Kha Monastery, the Traditional Paper Making Factory, and Takin Enclosure to view the Takin, the National Animal of Bhutan. Drive to Sangaygang and have the panoramic view of Thimphu town in its entirety. In the evening, drive to Paro. 

Day 30: Departure (Paro) 

We will drive you to Paro airport for your flight, and you bid goodbye to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Includes and Excludes For Trekking

                                      Inclusive:

1.  Sustainable Development Fee  (100 USD per night per person).

2. visa fee (USD 40 per person, one time).

3. Transport by private vehicle

4. Government-approved 3/5 -star hotels (As per your requirements).

5. English speaking guide, 

6. Bottled water in vehicle.

7. Permits, entrance fees, & sightseeing. 

8. Sleeping tents, sleeping mats & pillows.

9. Dining tents, kitchen tent & toilet tent. 

10. Tables, chairs, utensils, and hot water bags.

11. Trekking chef & assistants. 

12. Horses to carry trek equipment.

13. Food supplies

                                    Exclusive:

• 
  
• 1. Airfare domestic/ international. 
• 2. Travel Insurance 
• 3. Tips/ Gratitude for Guide, driver, trekking crews, cook and horse man.
• 4. Drinks & beverages
• 5. Phone/internet bills
• 6.Laundry
• 7. Wire transfer charge/card fee
• 8. Sleeping bag
• 9. Other bills of personal nature

Jomolhari Round Trek via Lingzhi

Jomolhari Round Trek 

Trip length: 10 Days 

Level: Moderately / Hard 

Maximum altitude: 4,860m 

Suitable month: March to May & September to November 

Day 1: Paro Arrival

On board the Paro by air presents a spectacular view of the Himalayan Mountains, including Mt. Everest and the sacred mountains of Bhutan in Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. At the Airport, the representative will be there to receive and take you to the Hotel. In the afternoon, you can visit Paro Dzong. Built in 1646, the Dzong today serves as an administrative centre for Paro District. Later, you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the country, built in the 7th century. Spend the night in the Hotel in Paro. 

Day 2: Hike to Taktshang Monastery 

After breakfast, hike to Taktshang (Tigers Nest) at a height of 2900m for it will acclimatize you for the next day’s trek. The 8th-century Buddhist Master, Guru Rinpoche, is said to have flown here from Khengpajong in Lhuntse to meditate. It is perched on the edge of a vertical cliff at the elevation of 900m from valley floor. Explore the Monastery and enjoy the beauty it offers. Descend back to Paro after lunch at Taktshang Cafeteria. Towards evening you can drive 25 km to the starting point of trek. 

Day 3: Shana- Sio Thangkha (20 km, 6-7 hours) Trek starts. 

After early breakfast, we will drive to Shana, the trek start points about 2-3 hours. The trek follows Pa Chhu, climbing and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. After crossing the bridge, the team stops for hot lunch. After lunch, we climb along the bank of the river through the rhododendron forest. We cross the river again and that will take us to the campsite at 3, 750m. 

Day 4: Sio Thangkha- Jangothang (15 km, 5-6 hours) 

The trail involves gentle climbs before you reach the Army camp. Following the river above the tree line, the trek presents stunning view of surrounding peaks. For lunch, we stop at Yak herder’s camp. A short walk into the valley will reach you at Jangothang at 4, 040m. We pitch base camp here. The view of Mt. Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are splendid. 

Day 5: Jangothang (Base Camp) 

To acclimatize for following day’s highest climb on this trek, we rest and explore the nearby areas. Mountains and lakes offer exciting sites to explore. Day 6: Jangothang –Lingshi (18 km, 7-8 hours) Following the stream for half an hour, we cross the bridge to right. Start the climb up to the first ridge, from where you can have a breathtaking view of Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshering Gang. Continue towards the valley, almost flat for a while, until the climb to the Ngye La pass begins at an altitude of 4,700m. Conquering the pass, the trail is a gradual descend to Lingshi camp, relishing the panoramic view of the peaks and Lingshi Dzong. Camp at an elevation of 4000m! 

Day 6: Lingshi- Shodu (22 km, 8-9 hours) 

The Laya - Gasa route leaves the Jhomolhari trek here. The trail climbs upward to a small Chorten on a ridge above the camp, turns south, and continues up the deep Mo Chhu valley. The trail passes through the treeless valley, climbing a short distance above the Mo Chhu. It then crosses the river, and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli La pass at 4,820m. From the pass, on a clear day, you can see Jhomolhari, Gangchen Ta, Tshering Gang and Masang Gang. Descend alongside a stream to a shelter, and then further downstream to a camp at Shodu at 4,100m, alongside meadow with a Chorten. 

Day 8: Shodu-Barshong (16 km, 6-7 hours) 

The route enters back to tree line. Following Wangchhu, Thimphu River, and trail descends through the forests of rhododendrons, juniper and alpine vegetation. Passing through ridge, cascades of waterfall present a breathtaking view. Hot lunch will be served by the river bank. After lunch, the route takes to the ruins of Barshong Dzong, reaching the camp at the height of 3, 600m. Also, the end of trek. 

Day 9- Thimphu Sightseeing (optional rest in hotel) 

Morning from camp, after breakfast car will pick up and drive towards Thimphu about 2-3 hours in rough road. Rest in hotel. (Optional itinerary for day) Start your capital tour with the visit to Memorial Chorten built in memory of the Third Druk Gyalpo. See the Takin, the national animal at its enclosure. Make a visit to Trashichhodzong, the Throne Room, and seat of the Chief Abbot and the summer residence of the Central Monastic Body. Overnight hotel in Thimphu! 

Day 10: Thimphu - Paro (Departure)

After early breakfast, we will drive you to Paro airport along the bank of Thimphu River; pass by confluence and along the Pachhu. Our representative will bid goodbye to you at the Airport from Bhutan!

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek Trip 

Duration: 9 Days 

Level of Trek: Moderate - Hard 

Season: February to June and October to December 

Day 1: Arrival at Paro 

On your flight to Paro, the journey affords spectacular views of the snowcapped Himalayan Mountains, including Jomolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. If you fly via Delhi or Kathmandu, you can have a view of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga. On your arrival at Paro Airport, our representative will be there to receive you. If you arrive before noon, you can start your trip after lunch. Visit the 8th-century-old Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the kingdom, built by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. In the evening, you can explore the town and plunge into Bhutan’s urban life. Spend overnight at Paro. 

Day 2: Hike to Taktshang Monastery 

Morning hike to Taktshang, the Tiger’s Nest is a refreshing and exciting one. Perched on a rocky ledge at an altitude of 3, 000 ft above the valley floor, the monastery was founded by the great Buddhist saint, Guru Padmasambhava. It is believed that Guru came to this site on the back of a tigress from Khengpajong in the Kurtoe region to meditate and later would convert the Paro valley to Buddhism. The hike to reach the viewpoint of the monastery makes for a nice half-day excursion. From there, one can view the beautiful Paro valley. Descend from the Monastery and rest at the Taktshang cafeteria for lunch. Return to the Hotel and have a free stroll in the town and nearby village settlements. Overnight will be in the hotel in Paro. 

Day 3: Paro to Thimphu

Drive downstream alongside the Pa Chhu River to its confluence with Wang Chhu (Thimphu River), then upstream to Thimphu, the capital of the country. Before entering Thimphu town, visit Simtokha Dzong, the Kingdom’s oldest Dzong built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1627. Afternoon visit the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan, visit to Buddha point, the biggest bronze Buddha of its kind in the world. Then visit Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu’s most impressive building, situated at the banks of Wang Chhu, which is the Throne Room of the King, and also the summer residence of Jekhenpo, the Chief Abbot. Take a leisurely walk through Thimphu market in the evening. Overnight will be in the Hotel in Thimphu. 

Day 4: Drive from Paro/Thimphu to Gynekha and Trek to Kepchen (3,390m) 

From Paro/Thimphu, we drive for 1-1.5 hours to the starting point of the trek. Today's trail winds through terraced fields and conifer forests. The trek begins in the beautiful Genekha village (2,800m) with a short descent to the river. From there, you’ll start climbing until you reach a vast rock platform at 3,350m, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley below. After another two hours of trekking, you will arrive at Kepchen, nestled amidst yak pastures at approximately 3,390m. Overnight at camp. Meals: (B/L/D) Activity: Hiking and Driving Duration: ~5 hours Distance: ~8 Kms Ascent: 590 masl Descent: 210 masl Accommodation: Camp 

Day 5: Trek Kepchen to Watachen/Labatama (4,300m) 

Today's trek takes you through blooming wildflowers, wild asparagus (in spring), and vast meadows. As you weave past tiny streams, the trail gently ascends through scattered birch and rhododendron trees, leading to Pagalabtsa Pass (4,250m), marked by towering cairns. From the pass, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Kanchenjunga in Sikkim and several Bhutanese Himalayan peaks. As you descend, the breathtaking panorama of the entire Dagala range unfolds, dotted with meadows and yak herder camps. Overnight at camp. Meals: (B/L/D) Activity: Hiking Duration: ~6 hours Distance: ~13 Kms Ascent: 1010 masl Descent: 110 masl Accommodation: Camp 

Day 6: Labatama Halt and Rest Day (4,300m) 

Spend a leisurely day relaxing and exploring the picturesque Labatama Valley. For those feeling adventurous, a range of day excursions is available to Relitsho, Hentsho, or Jametsho Lake. Overnight at camp. Meals: (B/L/D) Activity: Rest Day / Optional Hikes Accommodation: Camp 

Day 7: Trek Labatama to Pankha (4,000m) 

Today's trail ascends along the western side of Dala Tsho Lake, leading to a saddle at 4,520m, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest (Nepal), Kanchenjunga (Sikkim), Jumolhari, Jitchu Drake, Tshering Gang, Khangbum, Masang Gang, Tshenda Gang, and Gangche Ta. For an even more spectacular vantage point, you can climb a nearby peak at 4,720m. From the saddle, the trail descends past yak herder huts to Docha Chu, then follows the river for a while before reaching your campsite for the evening at Pankha. Overnight at camp. Meals: (B/L/D) Activity: Hiking Duration: ~7 hours Distance: ~9 Kms, Ascent: 260 masl Descent: 520 masl 

Day 8: Trek Pankha to Tso zhaw Chamgang/ trek end / Paro 

Today is the last day of the Dagala Thousand Lakes trek in Bhutan, but your climb doesn't end sooner, you will ascend to an impressive mountain pass, gradually climbing to its peak at 4,300m. The ascent is steady rather than steep, allowing for a manageable yet rewarding trek to the top. From there, the trail undulates with several ups and downs before descending on a steep trail to Chamgang (2640 m), from where the vehicle will pick you up and drive to paro. In the evening, you are free to stroll around the town. Overnight at paro. Overnight at the hotel. Meals: (B/L/D) Activity: Hiking and driving. Duration: ~6-7 hours Distance: ~17 Kms, Ascent: 50 masl, Descent: 1460 masl 

Day 9: Paro – Depart 

After early breakfast, we drive you to the airport. You board to the flight and bid goodbye to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Drukpath Trek

Druk Path Trek Trip length: 12 Days 

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!