Arrive Paro

Day Excursion to Taktshang Monastery literally known as Tiger's Nest. This is one of Bhutan's most sacred places, and an important pilgrimage destination. You will walk along a trail that slowly rises

Day Excursion to Taktshang Monastery literally known as Tiger's Nest. This is one of Bhutan's most sacred places, and an important pilgrimage destination. You will walk along a trail that slowly rises above the valley, taking you through fields and past four large prayer wheels turned by a stream. Continuing across an open meadow, you hike up a section of trail to a ridge where prayer flags rustle in the wind next to a massive prayer wheel. Just beyond is the Taktshang Cafeteria at 9,200 feet, where you stop to enjoy a hot drink and the striking views of the Monastery across the valley. Depending on your energy level, you may relax in the pleasant atmosphere of the cafeteria until lunch or continue on for a mile of steep climbing to another dramatic viewpoint. You return to the cafeteria for a delicious buffet of typical Bhutanese food. You may want to try Emadatsi (A chili cheese dish), vegetables with cheese sauce and other dishes.

Overnight at hotel.

Paro – Jele Dzong (8km/4hrs): TREK BEGINS

The trek begins with a short climb up to Jele Dzong and the trail ascends gradually up to the camp. If the weather is clear Paro valley can be seen with snowcapped peaks in the backdrop. Above the camp is Jele-la Pass (3400m) and Jele Dzong mostly in ruins. There is a lhakhang (temple), which has the statue of Sakyamuni.

Overnight at tented camp.

Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha (10km/4-5hrs)

Trek begins with an hour and a half climb and then ascends more gradually. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. Enjoy fine views of Mt. Jhomolhari (7314m) and other snow capped peaks if the weather is clear, you may also hear some monal pheasants calling during the day.

Overnight at tented camp.

Jangchulakha – Jimilangtsho (11km/5hrs)

The trail follows the ridge, and on clear day the views of the mountains and valleys are gorgeous. You will enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Jichu Drake (6989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Camp is close to the Jimilangtsho lakes.

Overnight at tented camp.

Jimilangtsho – Simkota (14km/6hrs)

The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and passes the lake of Janetsho. Today you may come across some yak herders' camps and get an idea of how these people live. Tonight's camp is close to Simkota Lake.

Overnight at tented camp.

Simkota – Thimphu (14km/6hrs): TREK ENDS

You day begins with a gradual climb, and if weather permits you will enjoy the majestic views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum, and other snow-capped peaks. The trail slowly descends through juniper trees to Phajoding. The trail to Thimphu from Phajoding is downhill all the way, passing through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Evening at leisure.

Overnight at hotel.

Thimphu - Paro

After leisurely breakfast visit the Centenary Farmer’s Market - which is in a permanent set of stalls, vendors from throughout the region arrive on Friday afternoon and remain selling their goods until Sunday evening. Next Bhutan Post, where you will have time to admire and buy some stamps - Bhutan is well known among the philatelists and stamps constitute one of its delightful exports. Then visit you will visit the Painting school (The school of 13 arts & crafts) and the Folk Heritage Museum. After lunch drive to Paro. Check in and and evening at leisure.

Overnight at hotel.

Departure

Early morning breakfast and drive to the airport for departure.