** Departures with festivals in Bhutan. Itinerary may be revised in order to coincide with festivals

This is a moderate trek crossing the chain of mountains, which separate the valleys of Paro and Thimphu. A classic walk past ruined forts and wonderful lakes teeming with fishes, sometimes a yak herders tents/camp will be seen and you will also visit temples and holy places in Phajoding which contains some of the rare Thanka paintings in the country. For most part the route stays on the ridge affording views of snow capped peaks, the valleys and remote villages and it is sparsely inhabited.

Day 01: Arrive Paro (D)
Arrive Paro by Druk Air flight and transfer to the hotel. Welcome dinner and briefing on tour. (Olathang/Pelri Cottages) Alt. 2200m.

Day 02: Paro Sightseeing (B/L/D)
Today we visit the Paro valley, site of the famous Tiger’s Nest, the Taktsang Monastery where the legendary Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have flown from Tibet on the back of a tiger to defeat the demons who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan. The walk is long, and can be steep in places, but the views are stunning.

Afternoon visit, Paro museum, dzong and a farm house. (Olathang/Pelri Cottages)

Day 03: Trek to Jangchulakha (via Jele Dzong) (B/L/D)
Trek starts today. The trail is rather gradual climb up till the ruined fort of Jele. From here the views are stunning with the snowcapped mountains as the backdrop. Distance covered: 16 kms in 7/8 hrs. Camp alt. 3200 m.

Day 04: Trek to Simkota (B/L/D)
Today’s trek follows the ridge and there are superb views in all directions, including the Paro valley below, Jumolhari and many of the high peaks- the views without the slog – and absolutely magnificent. You may come across some yak herders camp and get an idea of how these people live. Camp by the lake of Simkota and try some lake trout for dinner. Distance: 17 kms in 7/8 hrs.

Day 05: Trek to Phajoding (B/L/D)
A short trekking day today and you begin with a gradual climb to view Mt. Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and also the other peaks. The trail slowly descends till the campsite at Phajoding. Evening free to wander around and visit Phajoding Monastery. Distance: 12 kms in 4/5 hrs. Alt. 3200 m.

Day 06: Trek to Thimphu (B/L/D)
The trek today is all the way down through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Taking a leisurely pace you reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. Visit Memorial Stupa, handicraft center. (Hotel Wangchuk) 2500m.

Day 07: Thimphu sightseeing. Drive to Paro.
Whole day will be spent in the capital, visiting National Library, School of Thangkha painting, traditional medicine institute, the gold & silver smith, Drubthob nunnery and handicraft center. Evening transfer to Paro. (Olathang/Pelri Cottages)

Day 08: Departure (B)
Transfer to airport for departure flight.