Bhutan Thimphu Festival & Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Upon arrival in Paro, you’ll be greeted by your driver and tour guide. Begin the tour with a short ascent to Ta Dzong, a watchtower that now houses Bhutan’s National Museum, offering panoramic views of the Paro Valley. Later, visit the historic Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that once served as a military, administrative, and religious center. After exploring, head to your lodge for a pre-trip briefing and a relaxing evening.

Day 2: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Start the day with a trek to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff 2,000 feet above the valley, this sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated in the 8th century. The hike is steep, but the stunning views make it worthwhile. After the hike, visit Kyichu Temple, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century.

Day 3: Trek to Jele Dzong

Today, drive to Damchena village and begin your trek through forests of blue pine and silver birch to Jele La (3,580m). Along the way, you’ll pass ancient Buddhist prayer flags and enjoy breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. Visit Jele Dzong, a hilltop fort that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Camp below the dzong for the night.

Day 4: Trek to Jangchulakha

Continue your trek along the ridge above Paro Valley, passing through forests of conifers and rhododendrons. Enjoy views of snow-capped mountains, including Chomolhari, and pass yak herder settlements. Set up camp at Jangchulakha, overlooking a scenic valley.

Day 5: Trek to Jigmelangtsho

Climb to a series of small passes at around 4,050 meters, marked by stone memorials and prayer flags. From these passes, enjoy stunning views of the peaks bordering Tibet. The trek continues along the ridge before descending to the beautiful Jigmelangtsho Lake, famous for its brown trout. Camp near the lake.

Day 6: Trek to Phajoding Goemba

Pass two lakes as you continue trekking through dwarf rhododendron shrubs. Ascend to the Pumola Ridge (4,100m), offering majestic views of Mount Punsum, Bhutan’s highest peak. Descend to Phajoding Goemba, a remote Buddhist monastery, where you can interact with monks. Camp near the monastery.

Day 7: Trek to Thimphu

This easy trekking day involves a downhill walk through pine forests to Motithang, on the outskirts of Thimphu. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome from the WEX Bhutan team and a sumptuous lunch. In the afternoon, visit the National Textile Museum and explore Thimphu on foot, observing the city’s unique blend of Himalayan and modern influences.

Day 8: Thimphu Tshechu Festival

Spend the day at Tashichho Dzong, the royal palace and a major venue for the Thimphu Tshechu festival. Watch dancers in colorful costumes perform religious and cultural dances, accompanied by traditional music. Bhutanese people gather in their finest attire to celebrate and seek blessings. Experience the festive atmosphere, rich in cultural traditions.

Day 9: Dochu La and Chimi Lhakhang Hike

Drive to Dochu La Pass (10,223 feet), known for its 108 stupas and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Bhutan’s famous “Divine Madman,” and enjoy an easy hike through the village. In the afternoon, visit Wolakha Nunnery, interacting with the nuns who practice thangka painting and appliqué work.

Day 10: Punakha Dzong and Return to Paro

In the morning, visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses, situated between two rivers. Learn about its history and significance before driving back to Paro, stopping again at the scenic Dochu La Pass. Spend your final evening in Paro exploring the town and shopping for souvenirs.

Day 11: Departure from Paro

On your final day, drive to the Paro airport for your departure. Say farewell to Bhutan and reflect on the unforgettable cultural and trekking experiences you’ve had.