One of the most favorite moderate treks in Bhutan. Explore the trail from Paro to Thimphu through the pristine and beautiful natural landscape of this mystic country. Pass through forests of blue pines, firs and rhododendrons, high ridges, and clear freshwater lakes, and visit ancient Lhakhang, dzongs, and villages of Bhutan, with altitudes ranging between 2,400-4,200m. During this trek, you will also see the highest peak in Bhutan – Mt. Gangkar Phuensum. Phajoding monastery is another enchanting landmark that is part of this trek. Two pleasant excursions in Paro have been planned whilst acclimatizing with the high altitude.
Recommended time to experience this trek is during the months of March-May and September-November
Altitude in Paro: 2,280m
Onboard the aircraft, the flight is treated to spectacular views of snow peaked mountains and the Himalayan ranges. Paro airport (2,280m) is Bhutan’s only international airport where our dedicated team will receive you at the airport.
Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of The Heap of Jewels)- Rinpung Dzong is an ancient fortress in traditional Bhutanese architecture with a complex of courtyards, temples, administration offices and open space surrounded by towering walls. All the buildings are equipped with huge windows with elaborate wooden carvings of traditional Bhutanese motifs. Paro Dzong is considered one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture and it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Bhutan. This impressive dzong is also seen during landing into Paro Airport.
National Museum of Bhutan – Ta Dzong. Originally built as a watchtower in 1649, atop a hill above the Rinpung Dzong, overlooking the whole picturesque Paro valley. Converted into a museum in 1968, its extensive collection includes astonishing antique thangka paintings, weapons and armor, and rich diversity of natural and historic artifacts.
Shagzo (Bhutanese woodturning at Sangay Wood Turning Factory) - The shagzo techniques use the age-old methods and each product is unique in shapes, sizes and colours. Learn the Shagzopa (Shagzo artisans), the essential steps in creating the elegant and functional products like wooden bowls (dapa), cups (dza phob) and plates with beautiful patterns, while keeping the ‘soul’ of the wood in it.
Altitude in Paro: 2,280m
Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)- at 3,000m above sea level, this is one of the most sacred sites of Bhutan. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) came here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. Lunch will be served at the Taktshang cafeteria and descend towards the Paro valley floor. The journey will take 6-7 hours in total.
Kyichu Lhakhang- one of the 108 temples built throughout the Himalayas by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. The main chapel has roots as far back as the 7th century, with additional buildings and a golden roof added in 1839 by the penlop (governor) of Paro and the 25th Je Khenpo. Elderly pilgrims constantly shuffle around the temple spinning its many prayer wheels, making this one of the most charming spots in the Paro valley.
Distance: 7-8km
Estimated time: 4-5hrs
Camp altitude: 3,480m
First day of the Druk Path Trek. Ascending approximately for 1,090m from Ta Dzong through blue pine forests and farmhouses. From the ridge below Jele Dzong, campsite will be approximately a 100m descend.
Jele Dzong, though is mostly in ruins, is still an impressive fortress, located on top of the ridge and surrounded by colorful prayer flags. If the weather permits, a view of both Mt. Jomolhari (7,314 m) or Gangkhar Puensum (7,570 m) and it’s mountain ranges are seen.
Distance: 10km
Estimated time: 4-5hrs
Camp altitude: 3,770m
The trek begins with a steek climb for about 1.5 hours, following a gradual ascent through thick lush alpine forests and rhododendron tresses. Following the trail, ascending about 310m, and descending approximately 50m before reaching campsite. At campsite take time to observe Mount. Jomolhari (7,314m) and the surrounding mountains, immerse in the natural surrounding with the sound of pheasants calling during the day and watch herders and their yaks around your campsite.
Distance: 11km
Estimated time: 4hrs
Camp altitude: 3,870m
The trek ascends to about 330m following the mountain ridge up until 4,040m, following a short descend to Jangchu La Pass (4,180m). On a clear day, the magnificent view of Jimilang Tsho (Sand Ox Lake), known for its massive size trout, and Mt. Jichu Drake (6,989m) can be seen. This mountain peak represents the protective deity of Paro valley.
Distance: 11km
Estimated time: 4hrs
Camp altitude: 4,110m
Trekking through the dwarf rhododendron trees and Janee Tsho Lake, ascending about 820m reaching Simkota Tsho. Bhutanese yak herders are a common site and obserive the life of a yak herder. Campsite will be located clost to Simkota Tsho Lake at 4,500m.
Distance: 10km
Estimated time: 3-4hrs
Camp altitude: 3,750m
The trek begins with an ascend pproximately 130m to around 4,180m and cross Phume La pass (4,210m). Crossing the pass, the area is speckled with prayer flags and the stunning views of Mt. Gangkhar Puensum (7,541m) and other Himalayan peaks. The trail then will descend past Thujidrag Goemba, a meditation center hanging on the side of a precipitous rock face. Continuing the trek through juniper trees, the campsite is located just above Phajoding Goemba (3,870m), an important pilgrimage site in Bhutan
Distance: 4-5km
Estimated time: 2- 3hrs
The trek today will be all downhill descend through forested areas of mostly blue pines towards the capital city. The hike will take 2-3 hours with a total of 1,130m descent. At the base pick up and transport to the hotel will be organized.
National Memorial Chorten – one of Bhutan’s most prominent buildings. The Chorten is the monument of world peace and prosperity. For Bhutanese, the site also serves as the memorial to their Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928-72).
Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma) - At a height of 51,5m, placed on top of a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the sight of the enormous statue of Shakyamuni Buddha is stunning and unforgettable. This giant statue is one of the largest in the world and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness.
Tashicho Dzong (Fortress of The Glorious Religion)- Tashichho Dzong has been the seat of the Bhutan government since 1952. Through the years, the dzong has gone through expansions and renovation and presently houses the throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat and the ministries of home affairs and finance. Other government departments are housed in buildings nearby.
Exploring the nooks and crannies of Thimphu city. Walk the streets of the capital, live the commotion, and experience the nightlife with good food and music.
Altitude in Punakha: 1,300m
Distance: 75km
Estimated travel time: 3hrs
Dochula Pass (3,050m)- Panoramic view of the Himalayan mountains. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness)- Built-in 1637, it is said to be the most spectacular dzong in Bhutan. Punakha Dzong was built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley.
In addition to its structural beauty, until the mid-1950s, it still served as Bhutan’s capital and the seat of the government. All of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here, and it has witnessed the memorable wedding of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to Jetsun Pema in 2011.
Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge- Measuring at 160m in length, this is Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. Spectacular sight of Punakha Dzong and Pho Chhu Valley.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (1,500m)- A leisure 1 hour hike to witness Bhutan’s finest example of tradition and architecture. A unique attribute of this Chorten setting it apart from the rest is in its architecture- designed on the principals delineate within the Holy Scriptures instead of trendy engineering manuals. The golden spire and labyrinthine wall patterns square measure fine example of art and traditions.
Altitude in Paro: 2,280m
Chimi Lhakhang- Hike to the Temple of Fertility (altitude: 1,500m). An enjoyable hike, taking about 30 minutes through the rice and mustard fields and the uniquely decorated houses of Lobasa Village.
A stroll through Paro town.
