10 Days Cultural Tour with Trek

Itinerary Overview

Day 01: Arrive Paro

Day 02: Paro

Day 03: Trek Start Paro-Jela Dzong

Day 04: Jela Dzong - Jangchulhaka

Day 05: Jangchulhaka - Jigmelang Tso

Day 06: Jigmelang Tso - Simtkotra Tso

Day 07: Simtkotra Tso - Thimphu

Day 08: Thimphu

Day 09: Paro

Day 10: Depart Paro

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.