Highlights
- Hike a challenging trail with a professional trekking crew
- Camp at high-altitude sites with incredible views of the Himalayas
- Enjoy a day of rest to acclimate in the mountains
- Dine on Bhutanese cuisine prepared by the crew's cooking staff
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Start the Trek to Thongdu Zam | Thongdu Zam |
| Day 2 | Hike to Soi Tangthanka | Soi Tangthanka |
| Day 3 | Continue Through a Juniper Forest to Jangothang | Jangothang |
| Day 4 | Rest & Get Acclimated in the Mountains | Jangothang |
| Day 5 | Hike Across Bhonte La to Soi Yaksa | Soi Yaksa |
| Day 6 | Trek to Thongbu Shong & Camp in the Valley | Thongbu Shong |
| Day 7 | Drive to Paro |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Start the Trek to Thongdu Zam
Welcome to Bhutan! You'll start in the Paro Valley, driving north to the ruins of Drugyel Dzong. From there, you'll drive another hour along a dirt road to Shana. This is the starting point of the trek. First, you will meet your trekking crew for the next six days. Then you'll start the hike itself. The first leg of the trek will take three to four hours on a trail that leads gradually uphill along the banks of the Paro Chu River. You'll camp in a tent at Thongduzam.
Day 2: Hike to Soi Tangthanka
Today you'll only trek for a short distance: it's important to gain altitude slowly so that your body can get used to the lack of oxygen. After breakfast, continue along the river through a magnificent forest of pine and spruce, mixed with oak, birch, and maple, as the valley begins to narrow. In some areas, the trail can be muddy. There are many small ups and downs as you follow the river north. After crossing a bridge, you'll start a short climb to reach a junction of two valleys. From here, you can see Jomolhari (also spelled Chomolhari), the mountain known as "the bride of Kangchenjunga." Continue on the trail along the west bank of the Paro Chu. The campsite is a short hike ahead at Soi Tangthangka.
Day 3: Continue Through a Juniper Forest to Jangothang
On this morning's hike, you'll cross a small army post and leave the forest behind as you enter a more open landscape surrounded by high ridges and snow-capped peaks. The trail continues through pristine juniper forest, winding past a few yak-herder villages. After breaking for lunch, you'll continue to your camp for the night, located in a beautiful grassy meadow beside a ruined fortress. The views are outstanding: the campsite in Jangothang is positioned beneath the enormous east face of Jomolhari.
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Day 4: Rest & Get Acclimated in the Mountains
Today is a scheduled rest day, intended to aid acclimatization before you cross the high passes on the trek. Fortunately, Jangothang is one of the most spectacular camping spots in the Himalayas. Snow-capped peaks are visible on the western side, with the majestic Jomolhari mountain just in front of you. A clear stream runs through the valley, surrounded by tiny villages and trout-filled lakes. If you're feeling up to it, take a short hike up the ridge to a grassy summit for a close-up view of Jomolhari and its glaciers. You'll enjoy a small feast for dinner before camping overnight in the same place.
Day 5: Hike Across Bhonte La to Soi Yaksa
Today is the most challenging day of the trek. The trail starts with a steep hike to the high-altitude Tshopu Lake. Looking back towards the west, great views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake appear as you travel higher. Continue the gradual climb up to Bhonte La Pass, spotting sheep, marmots, and migrating Himalayan birds. You'll also come to a fabulous view of the peak of Tserim Kang. After the mountain pass, it's a steep descent downhill to the small yak-herding village of Soi Yaksa. You'll camp nearby in Dumzo.
Day 6: Trek to Thongbu Shong & Camp in the Valley
Today’s hike starts with a gentle uphill trail to the top of the eastern ridge of the Soi Yaksa Valley. From here, take in an incredible view of the amphitheater of mountains to the north. Cross Takhungla, then descend to your campsite in a wide, grassy valley. Have a leisurely meal with the trekking crew and your companions on the last night of the journey.
Day 7: Drive to Paro & Depart
After a short, steep climb out of camp, leave the remote mountain area behind and follow a ridge to Thombu La for a glimpse of the Paro Valley to the south (and mountain views all around). Start the steep descent to Shana. After saying goodbye to the trekking crew, you'll drive to Paro. Transfer to the airport for your flight out. Safe travels!
More Bhutan Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Bhutan? Check out these other 7-day Bhutan itineraries, with trekking adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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