Day 01: Arrive Paro – Thimphu

The flight to Paro offers one of the most spectacular mountain views in the world, showcasing some of the highest peaks on earth. Paro Valley is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries and temples, as well as the country’s only international airport. After a traditional “Khadar” (scarf) welcome, our representative will greet you at the airport.

After lunch, enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum, which houses religious relics, artworks, and handicrafts that provide a deep insight into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious heritage. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa, regarded by Bhutanese as a master of meditation. The Dzong also serves as a large monastery and district administrative center, which were historically strategic forts.

Day 02: Paro

After breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery. The approximately 2-hour uphill walk will take you nearly a kilometer above the Paro valley floor (for those unable to hike, horse transfers up to the viewing point can be arranged). The view of Taktsang Monastery, perched on a sheer cliff 900 meters above the valley floor, is breathtaking. The monastery is also an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. According to legend, Guru Rimpoche and his consort meditated in a cave here for three months in the 8th Century, bringing Buddhist teachings to Bhutan. After meditation, they manifested as Guru Dorji Drolo and a tigress to subdue demons in the valley below. The cave, where the monastery was later built, is believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Day 03: Paro – Jela Dzong (Fort)

10km | 4-5 Hours | 1003m Ascent | 10m Descent | Camp Altitude 3480m

Though today’s trek is short, the altitude gain is significant, so we will proceed at a steady pace. After breakfast, drive to the roadhead at the National Museum (2487m) above Paro to begin your trek. The trail starts from the Museum and leads uphill through apple orchards, smallholdings of Damchena village, and pine forests. Visit Jele Dzong (3490m), perched on a whaleback ridge. Jele Dzong, though mostly in ruins, has a Lhakhang with a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of Paro town below and Mount Jumolhari (7315m) in the distance. Overnight camp at 3480m.

Day 04: Jela Dzong to Jangchuklha

10km | 4 Hours | 300m Ascent | Camp Altitude 3780m

Begin with a gradual ascent and then descend below the ridgeline, walking through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. You may encounter yak herders in the area. There are fascinating views of Mount Jumolhari and other snow-capped mountains, and you may hear monal pheasants during the day. Continue uphill to reach a yak herders’ pasture at Jangchulakha (3780m) with outstanding views of the Himalayan range. Overnight camp in a yak pasture near the hillside.

Day 05: Jangchuklha – Jimilang Tso

11km | 4-5 Hours | 400m Ascent | 300m Descent | Camp Altitude 3880m

The trail follows the ridge, at times passing through juniper trees and dwarf rhododendrons. The views of the Thimphu and Paro mountain valleys are sensational. After an ascent followed by a steep descent, arrive at Jimilangtsho Lake (3880m), famous for its giant trout. Near the camp, enjoy great views of Jichu Drake (6989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Overnight camp near Jimilangtsho Lake.

Day 06: Jimilang Tso – Simkotra Tso

11km | 4 Hours | 270m Ascent | Camp Altitude 4110m

The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and past the lake of Janetsho. You may encounter yak herders and gain insight into their way of life. The trail winds and undulates with magnificent views of the Himalayas across deep valleys. After crossing one final spur, Simkota Tsho Lake (4110m) can be seen below. Continue trekking until you reach the yak pasture where you will camp for the night.

Day 07: Simkotra Tso – Thimphu

14km | 7 Hours | 100m Ascent | 1800m Descent

Begin the day with a gradual climb to a small saddle at 4150m, where you can enjoy majestic views of Mount Gangkar Puensum and other Himalayan peaks in clear weather. Descend to another small lake and then climb to Phume La pass (4210m), adorned with beautiful prayer flags. From here, enjoy a great view of Thimphu city far below. The trail slowly descends through juniper trees to a community hall near Phajoding (3870m). Continue downhill through forests of blue pine and juniper until you reach the roadhead at Sangaygang on the outskirts of Thimphu valley.

Day 08: Thimphu

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built by the Royal Queen Mother as a memorial stupa for the Third King, who passed away in 1972. Continue to the 12th-century Changangkha Temple and Zilukha Nunnery. If time permits, visit Tashichhodzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion,’ which houses ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 09: Paro

Today will be at leisure. Enjoy shopping around Thimphu town, and later, after lunch, drive back to Paro Valley.

Day 10: Depart Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight.

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO

The flight to Paro offers one of the most breathtaking mountain views in the world, featuring a constantly shifting panorama of some of the highest peaks on earth. Upon arrival at Paro airport, you will be greeted by our representative after clearing customs. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing in Paro, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum, which houses numerous religious relics, artworks, and handicrafts, providing a comprehensive introduction to Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious heritage. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa. Dzongs are large monasteries and district administrative centers, which were originally strategic forts. Before dinner at the hotel, your guide will provide an orientation on Bhutanese etiquette. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 02: PARO

After breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery. The hike takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill and brings you almost a kilometer above the Paro valley floor. For those unable to hike, a horse ride up to the cafeteria can be arranged. The sight of Taktsang Monastery, built on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor, is truly spectacular. The Monastery is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. According to legend, the great Guru Rimpoche and his consort meditated in a cave here for three months when he introduced the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. After meditation, they transformed into Guru Dorji Drolo and a tigress to subdue demons in the valley below. The cave, where the monastery was later built, is said to be the origin of Buddhism in Bhutan. Nearby, there is a teahouse where you can stop for refreshments before returning to Paro for lunch. In the afternoon, drive to the ruins of the 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong and the 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 03: PARO

Enjoy a day trip to the Haa Valley, one of the most picturesque districts in Bhutan. The valley is reached via the scenic Chelila Pass (3900m) and is characterized by its rugged, mountainous terrain and unique architecture. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 04: PARO – THIMPHU

Drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, which is about 1.5 hours away. Thimphu was once a rustic village situated in a broad river valley and is now the nation’s capital. Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including visits to the National Memorial Chorten, completed by the Royal Queen Mother as a memorial stupa for the Third King, the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, and the Zilukha Nunnery. If your visit coincides with the weekend, take a walk through the Thimphu Market. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 05: THIMPHU

Drive over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks on a clear day, before descending into the Punakha valley (3 hrs). The Dochu-La area is covered with vast Rhododendron forests that bloom in late April/early May, turning the mountains into a riot of glorious spring colors.

Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’. The main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture, featuring four intricately carved entrance pillars made from cypress and decorated with gold and silver. After lunch, enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kuenly, also known as the Divine Madman for his unorthodox teachings. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha/Wangdue.

DAY 06: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA

Depart for Punakha, stopping in Trongsa for lunch. Overnight in Punakha.

DAY 07: PUNAKHA – PHOBJIKHA VALLEY

Transfer to Phobjikha Valley (3 hrs) via the bustling market town of Wangduephodrang. Drive up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forests, crossing a high pass into the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and the chosen winter home of black-necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau. After lunch, visit the Phobjikha Sanctuary to view the majestic black-necked cranes (Nov-Mar only) and the 16th-century Gangtey Gompa Monastery. Overnight at your hotel in Phobjikha.

DAY 08: PHOBJIKA VALLEY – TRONGSA

Depart over the Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain range towards Trongsa. En route, visit the beautiful 18th-century Chendebji Chorten. Trongsa is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. Visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest Dzong in Bhutan, and the Ta Dzong museum, which houses a collection of historical artifacts of the Royal Family. Overnight at your hotel in Trongsa.

DAY 09: TRONGSA – BUMTHANG

After breakfast, proceed towards Bumthang (2.5 hrs), the spiritual heart of Bhutan. Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest palaces, Buddhist temples, and monasteries. Upon arrival, visit Jakar Dzong (Dzong of the White Bird) and the 16th-century Tamshing Lhakhang, which contains ancient Buddhist wall paintings. After lunch, visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in the kingdom, and the 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang. Overnight at your lodge in Jakar, Bumthang.

DAY 10: BUMTHANG

Spend the day exploring the many sites around Bumthang, including the 16th-century Tang Ugyen Chholing Palace museum, which offers an overview of traditional rural life in Bhutan, and the pool of Mebartso (The Lake of Fire), where Pemalingpa, the founder of the Nyingmapa sect, is said to have found treasure hidden by Guru Rinpoche. Overnight at your lodge in Jakar, Bumthang.

DAY 11: BUMTHANG – MONGAR 

The journey to Mongar takes about 6 hours and offers spectacular views along the way. Drive through Ura village before climbing sharply to the highest point on Bhutan’s road network, Thrumshing-La Pass (4,000m). From there, the road gradually descends through picturesque alpine valleys, pine forests, maize fields, and hamlets before reaching Mongar town. Visit Mongar Dzong, built in the 1930s using traditional methods without the use of plans or nails. Overnight at your lodge in Mongar.

DAY 12: MONGAR – TRASHIGANG

Drive to Trashigang (4 hrs) through leafy forests filled with ferns, crossing the Kori-La Pass (2,450m) before descending through cornfields and banana groves to reach the famous road zigzag just below Yadi. Trashigang is the main township of the largest district in the country. After lunch, visit Trashigang Dzong. Overnight at your lodge in Trashigang.

DAY 13: TRASHIGANG (Excursion to Tashiyangtse)

Visit the temple of Gom Kora and Doksum Village, where you can observe women weaving traditional Bhutanese fabric, before reaching Tashiyangtse, the administrative center for this district. The area is famous for its unique wooden crafts. Visit Tashiyangtse Dzong, the dazzling white stupa of Chorten Kora, and the nearby Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students are trained in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Overnight at your lodge in Trashigang.

DAY 14: TRASHIGANG – SAMDRUP JONGKHAR

After breakfast, drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, the gateway to eastern Bhutan and Assam, India. The drive takes about 9 hours, with many beautiful villages and landscapes along the way. Overnight at your hotel in Samdrup Jongkhar.

DAY 15: SAMDRUP JONGKHAR – GUWAHATI

After breakfast, your guide will arrange for an Indian vehicle to transfer you to Guwahati, the capital city of the Indian northeastern state of Assam, for your onward flight. Tashi Delek!

Day 01: Arrive Paro – Thimphu

Arrive in Paro, welcomed by a breathtaking flight over the Himalayan peaks. Visit the Ta Dzong Museum and Rimpong Dzong before driving to Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 02: Thimphu

Spend the day sightseeing in Thimphu, including visits to the National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Temple, and Zilukha Nunnery. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu – Phobjikha Valley

Travel through the scenic Dochu-La pass to Phobjikha Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and winter home to black-necked cranes. Overnight in Phobjikha Valley.

Day 04: Phobjikha Valley – Bumthang

Visit Phobjikha Sanctuary and Gangtey Gompa before driving to Bumthang via Trongsa. Explore historical sites, including Trongsa Dzong. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 05: Bumthang

Explore Bumthang’s spiritual sites, including Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Jakar Dzong, and Tamshing Lhakhang. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 06: Bumthang – Punakha

Depart for Punakha, stopping in Trongsa for lunch. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 07: Punakha

Visit Punakha Dzong, the winter residence of the central monk body, and hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. Explore Chimi Lhakhang. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 08: Punakha – Thimphu – Paro

Drive back to Thimphu for shopping and lunch, then continue to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

Day 09: Paro

Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery and visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Overnight in Paro.

Day 10: Depart Paro

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO

The flight to Paro offers one of the most spectacular mountain views in the world, showcasing some of the highest peaks on earth. Upon arrival at Paro airport, you will be greeted by our guide following customs formalities. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing in Paro, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum, which houses many religious relics, works of art, and handicrafts, providing insight into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious heritage. Next, visit the Rinpung Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa. Dzongs are large monasteries and district administrative centers, which were once strategic forts. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 02: PARO

After breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery. The uphill walk of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours takes you nearly a kilometer above the Paro valley floor (a horse ride can be arranged up to the cafeteria for those who cannot hike). The view of Taktsang Monastery, perched on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor, is a breathtaking sight. The Monastery is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche and his consort meditated in a cave here for three months when he brought Buddhist teachings to Bhutan in the 8th century. In the afternoon, drive to the almost fully reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong. The original monument was built by Shabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. On the return drive to Paro, visit other sights in the Paro valley. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 03: PARO – GUR (4-5 hours)

Drive to the village of Genekha (2800m) to begin the trek. After crossing a bridge over the Wang Chu (Thimphu River), follow a trail steadily upward through oak forest to a rocky platform, a good resting spot. Continue slowly upward through birch and bamboo forest to reach the campsite in a meadow at Gur (3350m). Overnight at campsite.

DAY 04: GUR – WATACHING (5 hours)

From Gur, head upwards on a trail that leads to the alpine zone with open views down the valley. Reach a possible campsite at Gibze Kebze (3710m), where we may camp. If everyone is acclimatizing well, continue across hillsides lined with rhododendron to Pagalabsta La Pass (4170m) for fine views of the Dagala range. Continue downwards to a stone yak herders’ hut at Wataching (4100m). Overnight at campsite.

DAY 05: WATACHING – LABATAMA (4-5 hours)

From Wataching, cross several ridges gradually entering more rugged terrain, following a broad valley known locally as Labatama. Follow the valley to its end, arriving at a dramatic campsite below cliffs near Utsho Lake (4250m), famous for its golden trout. Explore the area, possibly climbing Jomo if weather and energy allow. Overnight at campsite.

DAY 06: LABATAMA – PANKA (5-6 hours)

Leave Labatama, crossing Labajong La Pass (4400m). If energy allows, take a 30-minute detour to a viewpoint close to the pass. Choose from several camps depending on water availability, aiming for Panka. Overnight at campsite.

DAY 07: PANKA – TALAKHA MONASTERY (5-6 hours)

A clear morning reveals breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, and Jichu Drake, among many other Himalayan peaks. The path continues through a forest of rhododendrons, home to Himalayan pheasants. Reach enormous cairns at Chole La Pass (4100m), then descend to Kiwi Chowa (4030m). Continue to a pass at 3960m, where four tracks converge. Follow the northern route past a ruin said to have once been a dzong monitoring movement between Wangduephodrang and Thimphu districts. A ridge leads to Talakha Peak (4300m), revealing great views of the Thimphu Valley. If weather permits, Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, and Jichu Drake should be visible from here. Descend steadily to a mixed forest of fir, juniper, rhododendron, rose, bamboo, and birch, reaching Talakha Monastery. Overnight at a campsite near the monastery.

DAY 08: TALAKHA MONASTERY – THIMPHU

It’s only an hour’s walk down to the roadhead before driving through apple orchards to reach Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. After checking into your hotel and enjoying lunch, explore Thimphu, once a rustic village in a broad river valley and now the nation’s capital. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, completed by the Royal Queen Mother as a memorial stupa for the Third King, the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, and the Zilukha Nunnery. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 09: THIMPHU

Continue sightseeing in Thimphu, visiting the School for Arts and Crafts, the National Library, which houses Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century, the Traditional Paper Factory, and a fascinating replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum. Visit the nursing pen for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, and Tashichhodzong, the “fortress of the glorious religion,” which houses some ministries, the King’s secretariat, and the central monk body. If time permits, hike to Tango and Cheri Monasteries (45 minutes), two of the most ancient monasteries in the Thimphu region, or explore the Thimphu Market if your visit coincides with the weekend. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 10: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA

Drive over the Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters) for incredible Himalayan views before descending into the balmy Punakha valley (about 3 hours). On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness,” built in 1637 by Shabdrung, the “Unifier of Bhutan.” This Dzong, located at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers), is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who migrate from Thimphu to this warmer location. After lunch, walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kuenly, also known as the Divine Madman. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha/Wangduephodrang.

DAY 11: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU

In the morning, drive to Yabesa village and hike through rice fields to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built by Her Majesty the Queen, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. After a picnic lunch on the riverside, enjoy a pleasant walk along the riverbank back to Punakha Dzong. Drive back to Thimphu, where you can visit handicraft and souvenir stores. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 12: THIMPHU – PARO

The day is at leisure to relax in Thimphu before departing for Paro, or return to Paro early to explore the beautiful Paro valley. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 13: DEPART PARO

After breakfast, drive to the airport for your onward flight.

DAY 01: ARRIVE IN PARO

Your flight to Paro offers breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest mountains. Upon arrival, our Euthra Tours Travel representative will meet you at the airport. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon tour of Paro, including a visit to the National Museum (Ta Dzong), which displays religious relics, art, and handicrafts that provide insight into Bhutan’s history and culture. Next, visit Rimpong Dzong, known for its painting of the great saint Milarepa, a revered figure in Bhutanese meditation. Explore the beautiful cantilever wooden bridge still in use. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 02: PARO

After breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). The trail is broad and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, offering spectacular views of the monastery perched 900 meters above the Paro valley. According to legend, Guru Rimpoche and his consort meditated here in the 8th century. After your hike, enjoy lunch at a nearby teahouse. In the afternoon, visit the reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong, originally built in 1644 to commemorate a victory against Tibetan invaders. If the weather permits, you can see Mount Jomolhari (7314m) in the background. Return to Paro for additional sightseeing. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 03: PARO – JELE DZONG

Trek 8 km (4-5 hours) with a 1,090-meter ascent. Today’s trek is a short climb to Jele Dzong. The trail ascends gradually, and if the weather is clear, you can see Paro valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The camp is located near Jele La (3400m) and Jele Dzong, which houses a Lhakhang with a Buddha Shakyamuni statue. Overnight at the campsite. Altitude: 3480m.

DAY 04: JELE DZONG – JANGCHULAKHA

Trek 10 km (3-4 hours) with a 310-meter ascent and 50-meter descent. Begin with a 1.5-hour climb and then ascend more gradually through thick alpine forests of rhododendrons. Enjoy views of Mount Chomolhari and other snow-capped peaks if the weather is clear. You might hear pheasants and see yak herders around your campsite. Overnight at the campsite. Altitude: 3770m.

DAY 05: JANGCHULAKHA – JIMILANGTSHO

Trek 11 km (4 hours) with a 230-meter descent and 330-meter ascent. The trail follows the ridge with spectacular mountain and valley views on clear days. You will see Jichu Drake (6989m), a peak associated with Paro’s protective deity. The camp is near Jimilangtsho lakes, known for their large trout. Overnight at the campsite. Altitude: 3870m.

DAY 06: JIMILANGTSHO – SIMKOTA

Trek 11 km (4 hours) with an 820-meter ascent and 400-meter descent. The trail passes through dwarf rhododendron trees and the lake of Janeetsho. You may encounter yak herder camps and see how they live. Camp near Simkota Lake, where you might catch a trout for dinner. Overnight at the campsite.

DAY 07: SIMKOTA – PHAJODING

Trek 10 km (4 hours) with a 130-meter ascent and 680-meter descent. The day starts with a gradual climb, offering views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak. The trail then descends through juniper trees to the campsite. Overnight at the campsite. Altitude: 3610m.

DAY 08: PHAJODING – THIMPHU

Trek 5 km (3 hours) downhill through a forest of blue pine. You will reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu

DAY 09: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA

Drive over Dochu-La Pass (3100m) for stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, then descend to Punakha (about 3 hours). Visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 and situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu Rivers. The Dzong is known for its beautiful architecture and is the winter residence of the Je Khenpo and monks. After lunch, visit Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Divine Madman, known for its fertility blessings. Return to Thimphu. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 10: THIMPHU – PARO

Enjoy sightseeing in Thimphu, starting with the National Memorial Chorten, built to protect against modernization’s negative effects. Visit the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, Drubthob Monastery, the School for Arts and Crafts, the National Library, and the Folk Heritage Museum. If time allows, visit the Takin enclosure and Tashichhodzong. In the evening, travel back to Paro. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 11: DEPART PARO

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

DAY 01: ARRIVE IN PARO, PARO – THIMPHU

Your flight to Paro offers one of the most spectacular mountain views in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest peaks on earth. After clearing customs, enjoy lunch before beginning your afternoon sightseeing in Paro. Visit the Ta Dzong Museum, which houses many religious relics, works of art, and handicrafts. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong, a large monastery and district administrative center that was once a strategic fort. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 02: THIMPHU

Spend a full day sightseeing in Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, the Zilukha Nunnery, and Tashichhodzong. If your visit coincides with the weekend, take a stroll through the Thimphu Market. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 03: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA

Travel to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. Visit the spectacular Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan.’ After lunch, take a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of Drukpa Kuenley. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha.

DAY 04: PUNAKHA/TASHITHANG – DAMJI (5-6 hrs)

The trek begins by the riverside, following a well-marked path through a subtropical forest. Watch out for wild orchids in this area, but also be aware of leeches! The walk today is a gentle climb up to Damji village (2,400m), where we camp for the night.

DAY 05: DAMJI – GASA (6-7 hrs)

The path continues through subtropical forests and villages, eventually reaching Gasa Tshachu (hot springs), known for their curative powers. After lunch near the springs, we climb up to Gasa Dzong (2,900m) where we camp overnight.

DAY 06: GASA – CHAMSA (6-7 hrs)

After breakfast, visit Gasa Dzong. Today’s trek begins with a steep climb up to Bele-La Pass (3,700m) through mixed forests. We then descend to our forest camp at Chamsa (3,650m).

DAY 07: CHAMSA – LAYA (8-9 hrs)

The trail descends to the bank of the Mo Chu. After crossing the river, we have lunch by the bridge. From here, it’s a gradual climb up to Laya (3,800m), passing an army camp along the way. We camp at Laya.

DAY 08: LAYA (Rest Day)

Spend the day exploring Laya village. Visit one of the local houses where traditional Bhutanese hospitality includes offering tea and chang (a barley-based alcohol) to visitors.

DAY 09: LAYA – RHODOPHU (8-9 hrs)

From Laya, we descend to the army camp and follow the trail along the river until we reach the turn-off point for Rhodophu. After lunch, continue climbing through rhododendrons until we reach a hanging valley with grazing yaks (4,350m). Camp by the river.

DAY 10: RHODOPHU – TARINA (10-11 hrs)

Today is the longest day of the trek, so we start early, around 5 a.m. The trek begins with a climb up to Tsimo-La Pass (4,700m), offering stunning views of Lunana and the peaks of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake. After about 4 hours of level walking, we climb up to Ganglakarchung-La Pass (5,080m). The descent into the Tarina valley is long, and we camp at 3,980m.

DAY 11: TARINA – WOCHEY (6-7 hrs)

The path descends through coniferous forests, following the upper reaches of the Pho Chu. We then climb over a ridge and drop down to Wochey (3,800m), the first village since Gasa. Camp at 3,800m.

DAY 12: WOCHEY – LHEDI (6-7 hrs)

Today’s trek begins with a walk through mixed forests and then through rhododendron bushes. We climb up to Keche-La Pass (4,480m) and then descend while enjoying mountain views en route. We walk upstream to Lhedi village (3,650m), where we camp overnight.

DAY 13: LHEDI – THANZA (7-8 hrs)

The route follows the river, gradually rising to Choejong village, the largest in Lunana, where we stop for lunch. After visiting the village temple, we continue to a suspension bridge, cross the river, and soon reach our campsite at Thanza (4,000m).

DAY 14: THANZA (Rest Day)

A well-deserved day of rest. If you feel energetic, you can climb up to the ridge for a splendid view of the mountains.

DAY 15: THANZA – TSHORIM (8-9 hrs)

Today’s trek starts with a climb up to a ridge, offering a great view of Table Mountain and Thanza valley below. We follow a stream through a small valley, enjoying views of snowcapped mountains. We then climb out of the valley to reach our campsite at Tshorim (5,125m).

DAY 16: TSHORIM – GANGKAR PUENSUM BASE CAMP (6-7 hrs)

Today’s trek is a highlight of the trip. The day starts with a short climb up to Tshorim Lake. We walk around the side of the lake, enjoying a panoramic view of the Gophu La Ranges. The final stretch up to Gophu-La Pass (5,230m) is short. After crossing the pass, we descend to the base camp, walking along the ridge and enjoying a great view of Gangkar Puensum. You can climb a pyramid-shaped peak for a better view or go directly to the base camp (4,970m) near the Sha Chu.

DAY 17: GANGKAR PUENSUM BASE CAMP

A rest day at the base camp, taking in the magnificent views.

DAY 18: GANGKAR PUENSUM BASE CAMP – GESHE WOMA (6-7 hrs)

Today’s trail follows the Sha Chu river, descending to Geshe Woma (4,200m) where we camp.

DAY 19: GESHE WOMA – WARATHANG (8-9 hrs)

The path continues along the Sha Chu until the climb to Saka-La Pass (4,800m). Visibility can be poor along this part of the trail, so keep an eye on the ridge to stay on course. Enjoy stunning views of small lakes spread below towering peaks. We camp at 4,000m.

DAY 20: WARATHANG – DHUR TSHACHU (5 hrs)

A short half-hour climb takes us up to Juli-La (4,400m) before descending to the riverside through dense rhododendron, juniper, and conifer forests. We cross a bridge and, after a short climb, reach Dhur Tshachu hot springs, where legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava bathed in the 8th century.

DAY 21: DHUR TSHACHU – TSHOCHEMCHEM (8-9 hrs)

From the hot springs, it’s a long and steady climb upwards, with great views of the Lunana mountains. The ground eventually levels out, revealing several beautiful deep blue lakes, yaks grazing on the surrounding pasture, and yak herders’ camps (3,850m).

DAY 22: TSHOCHEMCHEM – DHUR (MOTOR ROAD) – BUMTHANG (JAKAR) (13 hrs)

This is the last day of the trek. We must set off very early to reach Bumthang before dark. The path follows the Chamkhar Chu river, descending gradually with a few climbs. The trek ends when we reach Dhur village, where transport will meet us and drive us to our lodge in Bumthang (Jakar).

Note: Unless you are very fit, it is best to spread this final stage over 2 days.

DAY 23: BUMTHANG

Explore the Bumthang valley, including visits to the 16th-century Tamshing Lhakhang, Kurjey Monastery, and Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest in the kingdom. Also visit the Jakar Dzong and Swiss Farm House. Overnight at your hotel in Bumthang.

DAY 24: BUMTHANG – GANGTEY

We depart Bumthang after breakfast and drive to Gangtey, home to the rare Black-necked Cranes. If you are traveling between late October and early March, you may see these rare birds that migrate from Tibet. Visit Gangtey Gompa and explore the picturesque Phobjikha valley. Overnight at your hotel in Gangtey.

DAY 25: GANGTEY – PARO

Drive to Paro and visit the Drukgyel Dzong ruins, a fortress and Buddhist monastery. In 1646, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this Dzong to commemorate his victory over Tibetan invaders. The Dzong was destroyed by fire in 1950, and today it is in ruins. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peak of Jomolhari. On the way back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 26: PARO

The trail to the famous Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, takes you through beautiful pine forests, where many trees are festooned with Spanish moss, and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. It is said that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan in 747 AD, flew here on the back of a flying tiger, Dorje Drolo, who was believed to be his favorite consort. The monastery clings to a cliff 3,000 feet above the valley floor. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain. After lunch, you may return to the hotel or, if you wish, continue further to explore the monasteries. The path is broad and the walk uphill takes about 2-3 hours. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

DAY 27: PARO – DEPARTURE

After breakfast, we will escort you to the airport for your flight onward.