JHOMOLHARI SOE YAKSA TREK

The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. Our representative will meet you at Paro airport. After lunch enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the National Museum, Ta Dzong. This museum houses many religious relics, works of art and handicrafts offering a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical and cultural past. Next, visit the Rinpung Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa, considered as the master of meditation by the Bhutanese and believed to have attained enlightenment in a lifetime. Dzong’s are large monasteries and district administrative centre, which were once strategic forts. Afterwards walk to the beautiful cantilever wooden bridge still in use. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery. The trail is broad and the walk of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill takes you high above the Paro valley. The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. According to legend, great Guru Rimpoche and his consort mediated in a cave here for three months when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. After meditation, they manifested themselves in the forms of Guru Dorji Drolo and a tigress to subdue demons in the valley below. Nearby there is a teahouse where you can stop for lunch.or we can go for lunch in the town and explore paro town after lunch.Evening we will go for the dinner in te local farm house and we can experience hot stone bath. Overnight at your hotel

Distance 17 km, 5-6 hours
After early breakfast from hotel, we will drive about 2 hours through farm road to Shana, where you will start your trek. We ascend through the river valley and beautiful pine and rhododendron forest. Sadly much of the forest has been cut to make way for electricity to be run to Jangothang and Lingzhi village- the sight of fallen trees is a reminder of the cost of progress.

The trail again follows the Pa Chu (Paro river), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forest .After crossing a bridge to the left bank of the river, we stop for lunch. Then continue along the river, climbing upwards through Rhododendron forest, and crossing the river once more before reaching the campsite (3750m). Overnight at campsite.

Distance  19km, 7-8 hours
The path ascends for a while until we reach the army camp. We then follow the river above the tree line, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Hot lunch is served at a yak herder’s camp. A short walk from here into the valley takes us to our campsite at Jangothang (4040m). From here the views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake are Superb. Overnight at campsite.

A rest day to allow for acclimatization following the altitude gains of the last two days. There are a number of good side trips from camp or you can recline in your tent and enjoy superb views from there!

Distance 16 km, 6-7 hours
A long but exciting day crossing our highest pass, the Bonte La. (4890m). We start steeply to reach the first of two-trout filled glacial lakes. In this remote setting we may catch a glimpse of blue sheep, marmots in the rocks and Himalayan birds frequenting their highest habitats.

From there, encounter a second lake before descending into a hidden valley ahead of embarking on a steep climb towards the Bonte La pass, standing tall at an elevation of 4,890 metres. From the pass there are stunning views of Jichu Drake and the skyline of the Bhutan Himalayas perched along the Tibetan border. We make steep descent into the Soi Yaksa Valley where the incumbent yak herding families have a reputation for producing quality yak wool cloth. It is a lovely setting for our camp (3,740m).

Distance 11 km, 4-5 hours
A steady uphill leads out of the valley. As we climb the view gradually widens until the summits of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake reappear on the distant horizon surrounded by their Himalayan acolytes. More great views as we cross the Thombu La (4550m) where on a clear day Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world can be spotted. We make our way down into a peaceful valley dotted with the huts of nomadic yak herders, offering an authentic glimpse into mountain life. Pause to embrace the stillness and reflect on the remarkable experiences this journey has given you.

Distance 13 km, 4-5 hours
We climb out of the valley today and begin the return to civilisation. From our last high point on the ridge, we can see the Paro Valley in the distance before beginning our 1000+ metre descent to finally reach Shana, where our trek began. We hike back down the valley to the road head at Gunitsa, where we say farewell to our trekking team. Our transport waits for the short drive to Paro, and then to Thimphu. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

Thimphu Sightseeing. Altitude 2400M

In the morning, start your day with a visit to the Tallest Sitting Buddha Statue at Kuensel

Phodrang, standing 51.5 meters high and offering panoramic views of the Thimphu

valley. Royal Textile Academy,where you’ll explore Bhutan’s rich weaving traditions and

admire exquisite handwoven fabrics. Then, head to Continue your sightseeings with a

visit to the Hand made Traditional paper factory, In the afternoon, explore the Takin

Preserve Centre, where you can observe the takin, Bhutan’s unique national animal,

known for its unusual appearance, resembling a mix of a goat and a cow.

If possible we can go for a short hike towards wangditse tample overlooking thimphu

the capital city.Overnight stay at a hotel in Thimphu.

Thimphu to Punakha Sightseeing. Distance 72.8KM | Driving Time 2 Hours 2Minutes | Altitude 1200M 

Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Thimphu to Punakha. En route, make a stop at Dochula Pass, home to the 108 stupas (chortens), which are a striking and meaningful feature of this mountain pass. The pass offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and serves as a peaceful and spiritual site. Continue your drive towards Punakha, a picturesque valley known for its rich history and culture.

Upon arrival, visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility. This sacred site is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, widely revered for his unorthodox teachings. The temple is famous for its connection to fertility and is believed to bless couples with children.

You’ll also visit the ninnery if time permits. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Drive back to Thimphu where you will have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores, and enjoy lunch. Afterwards proceed to Paro and check into your luxury hotel.

The remainder of the day is free to explore the Paro township, or enjoy the spa treatments available at your accommodations. Overnight in Paro.

As your journey draws to a close, take one last lingering look at Bhutan’s emerald valleys

and golden temples. Today, you’ll bid a fond farewell to this enchanting kingdom,

carrying with you new friendships, precious photographs, and memories that will endure

long after you leave. Until we meet again—Tashi Delek!