On arrival in Paro, you’ll clear Bhutan customs and meet your group leader. After a briefing at the hotel, you’ll have time to explore the Paro bazaar. This is an ideal first glimpse into Bhutan’s culture and a chance to immerse yourself in local life.
Start with a hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), a sacred pilgrimage site perched on a cliff. The hike takes 2-3 hours and provides excellent views of the Paro Valley, helping with acclimatization before the trek. In the afternoon, visit Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong, which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan.
Today, you’ll start the trek along a well-defined trail from Paro through small settlements. The trail ascends through forests of pine and birch, reaching the alpine glade at Jilli La. The day ends at a campsite near Jilli Dzong, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views and explore nearby prayer flags that reflect Bhutanese Buddhist beliefs.
Continue along the wooded ridge above the Paro Valley, passing through conifer and rhododendron forests. As you trek, you may catch glimpses of the snow-capped Jomolhari Peak. The day ends at Jangchu Lakha, offering stunning views of the valleys below.
Today’s trek takes you across small passes, each adorned with prayer flags and stone memorials. The route offers spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks on Bhutan’s border with Tibet. The day ends with a descent through alpine meadows to the shores of Jimilang Tsho, a serene high-altitude lake.
After trekking through rhododendron forests, you’ll pass through yak herders’ settlements and reach the secluded campsite at Simkota Tsho. This tranquil spot offers views of the Jilli Dzong and the path you trekked along earlier in the trip.
Spend the day at Simkota Tsho, taking a short acclimatization walk to Dungtsho Lake, a serene spot steeped in Buddhist mythology. In the afternoon, return to the campsite for rest and relaxation.
Today’s trek takes you over the Phume La pass (4200m), offering panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. As you descend, you’ll pass yak herders’ settlements and alpine lakes before reaching Phajoding Goemba, a significant pilgrimage site.
The trail descends steeply through mixed forest before reaching the valley floor. From there, a short drive brings you to Thimphu. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Bhutan’s capital, visiting sites like the Tashichho Dzong, the National Assembly, and the late King’s memorial stupa.
Enjoy morning sightseeing in Thimphu, then embark on a scenic drive back to Paro. If your tour coincides with the Paro Festival, you’ll spend the afternoon enjoying the festivities and cultural displays.
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Paro Airport for your onward journey, bidding farewell to the Dragon Kingdom.