This classic 9-day Trek starting from (Drugyal Dzong) Paro and end at Dodena near Thimphu is one of the most lovely in Bhutan. The route passes over two high passes from Jangothang. The view of Jumolhari mountain (7314 M) from Jangothang is spectacular The Trek is strenuous and  very popular. The highest point is 4115 M.

Trekking Itinerary

Day 01. Arrival at Paro: Upon arrival at Paro airport, received by and transferred to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Paro. 

Day 02 Paro – Shana (Start of Trek): Our trek to Shana starts at Drukgyal Dzong following the Paro river and we pass cultivated fields and tiny picturesque villages. The forests are alive with numerous birds and brightly colored butterflies. Overnight at camp Shana. Altitude 2,820 m; Distance 14 Km; Time 5 - 6 hours. Overnight in Camp.

Day 03. Shana – Thangthangka: The trail follows the river through a heavily forested area with a few isolated farmhouses. It narrows and closes in and the trail winds up and down along the drainage. We pass a junction enroute, where another path leads north over the Tremo La to Tibet. Camp is in a meadow with a stone shelter. Altitude 3610 m; Distance 21 Km;
Time 7 - 8 hours. Overnight in Camp.

Day 04. Thangthangka – Jangothang: In the morning after passing a small army post, the trail slowly leaves the forest line and gradually climbs into a beautiful valley, passing Tegethang, a winter home of yak herdsmen. Lunch will be served in one of these huts. Lots of yaks will be seen today before we arrive at the Jhomolhari base camp (4,115 m). High mountains overlook the camp and visible nearby are the ruins of an old fortress used to guard Bhutan against Tibetan invasions. Altitude 4,115 m; Distance 15 Km; Time 5 - 6 hours. Overnight in Camp.

Day 05. Jangothang: Rest day at Jangothang, enjoy the superb view all around. Overnight in Camp.

Day 06. Jangothang – Lingshi: The trail follows the stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right side. Start the climb up to the first ridge with a breathtaking view of Jumolhari, JichuDrakey and Tsrim Ghang. Then walk towards the valley, almost flat for a while, until the climb to the Nyeley la pass at an altitude of 4,700 meters. After the pass it’s a gradual descent to the Lingshi camp, enjoying the panorama view of the peaks and Lingshi dzong. Camp altitude is 4000 meters. Walking time 7-8 hours. Overnight in Camp.

Day 07. Lingshi – Shodu: 8 hrs walk. The trail today climbs to Yalila Pass (4820 m), from where on a clear day, impressive views of Mount Jumolhari, Tserim Kang and Masagang can be seen. Overnight in Camp.

Day 08. Shodu – Barshong: This is the place where one comes back to the tree line. The path follows the Thimphu River, descending through rhododendron, juniper and other alpine forest. The view of the cliff facing rocks and waterfalls are stunning. Hot lunch will be served by the riverside. After lunch the trail gradually ascends to the ruins of the Barshong dzong, reaching the camp at the altitude 3600meters. Walking time 6-7 hours. Overnight in Camp.
Day 09. Barshong – Dolamkencho: The road descends through alpine forests and we once again join the Thimphu river for a while. After lunch climb up to the Dolamkencho camp at an altitude of 3600meters. Walking time 5-6 hours. Overnight in Camp.

Day 10. Dolamkencho – Dodena – Thimphu: The path descends through bamboo forests all the way to Dolamkencho, finally joining Thimphu River again. Arrive at Dodena where you will be picked up for the drive to Thimphu (15 km). Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11. Departure: Early morning, drive to the airport and farewell.