Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrive and visit around Paro Valley

   • Arrive at Paro by Druk Air flight. A reception will be arranged for you on arrival.
   • After lunch, visit National Museum, Kyichu Lhakhang and drive to Drugyel Dzong ruins.
   • Along the way, one can view the sacred Mt Jhomolhari (7326 m) if the weather permits.

   Overnight in Paro.

2. Day 2: Chele La Pass and hike to Kila Nunnery

   • Start early for the drive to Chele La Pass, which, at 3,988m (12,499ft), is the highest road pass in Bhutan, snaking upwards through blue pine and rhododendron (Ethno Metho) forests for 36 kilometres. On a clear day, the view sweeps away to the snow-dome of Bhutan’s second-highest peak, Mt Jhomolhari (7326m or 23,996ft), and down to the Haa Valley. This unspoiled valley harks back to a simpler, more traditional time; we pass a sky burial site.
   • Descend for the two-hour hike through a dense rhododendron forest to Kila Goemba, an ancient nunnery nestled in a craggy patch on the mountainside below. Kila Goemba is a serene retreat for 46 Anim (Buddhist nuns) who lead an undisturbed life of religious studies, prayer, and meditation. Having made our offerings and perhaps been blessed, it is time to descend further.
   • An hour later, we will get back at the road to take an optional mountain bike freewheeling ride down to Paro Valley. For those who would rather have a leisurely sightseeing day, there is the option to drive from Chele La Pass down the other side to the Haa Valley.
   • If Chele La Pass is not accessible during the winter months due to ice or snow, your guide will propose an alternative for this day excursion.

   Overnight in Paro

3. Day 3: Hike from Paro to Taktsang

   • Today we will start with a visit to Taktsang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the floor of Paro Valley. The name means ‘tiger’s nest’; it was named because Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown to the monastery's site on the back of a tigress. He then meditated in a cave here for three months.
   • There are several other buildings in the complex. The Temple of Phurba contains a Phurba, the three-bladed ritual dagger used to stab demons.

   Overnight in Paro.

4. Day 4: Trek from Damchen Nang to Jangchu Lakha

   • Start trekking from Damchen Nang with a gradual climb. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Jhomolhari. You will encounter one and a half-hour of a slightly steep climb and then a gradual ascent. The trek takes you through alpine forests and rhododendron shrubs, and yak herders.

   Picnic and overnight at camp.

5. Day 5: Jangchu Lakha to Jimilang Tsho

   • In the morning, embark on a gradual climb, followed by a descent to the campsite in the afternoon. The trail follows the ridge and offers clear views of mountains and valleys.

   Camping at Jimilang Tsho Lake (Lake of the Ox). Picnic and overnight at camp.

6. Day 6: Climb to Labana from Jimilang Tsho

   • Continue with your trek, where the trail will take you through rhododendron shrub forests and yak herders. You will pass Janetso lake and Simkotra lake on the way.

   Picnic and overnight at camp. 

7. Day 7: Climb from Labana to Paro via Thimphu

   • Encounter a gradual climb today, with a beautiful view of 'Gangkar Puensum' mountain, the highest mountain in Bhutan. Slowly descend to reach Phajoding monastery, overlooking Thimphu city.
   • Descend to Thimphu through mostly Blue Pine forests.

   Overnight in Paro.

8. Day 8: Departure

   • Leave for the airport.