Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive in Paro and begin your Bhutanese adventure with a visit to the National Museum, home to centuries of priceless art and artifacts. Continue to the magnificent Rinpung Dzong, famously featured in Bernardo Bertolucci’s film Little Buddha. End the day with a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Paro town, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Paro – Taktsang Monastery – Kyichu Lhakhang

Start the morning with a drive to Drukyel Dzong, where, on a clear day, you may catch a glimpse of the sacred Mount Jomolhari. Today’s highlight is the legendary hike to the Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched dramatically on a cliffside. For those preferring a shorter trek, the halfway point cafeteria offers wonderful views. Later, visit the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, before returning to Paro.

Day 3: Paro – Geynekha – Gur (Trek Begins)

After breakfast, drive for two hours to Geynekha village (2,900m), stopping at Tachog Lhakhang with its ancient iron bridge crafted by saint Thangtong Gyalpo. Continue to Chuzom, the confluence of Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu rivers, before reaching Geynekha. From here, your trek begins, climbing gradually through oak forests to a ridge at 3,350m, and finally to your first campsite near Gur.

Day 4: Gur – Labatama (5 hours, 13km)

Continue through pristine forests and alpine meadows, passing the herder hamlet of Gibze Kebze (3,710m). Ascend to the Pagalabtsa La Pass (4,170m), where sweeping views of the Dagala mountain range unfold. Traverse ridgelines and descend into Labatama Valley (4,050m), a summer grazing ground dotted with herders’ huts and alpine lakes. Overnight in Labatama.

Day 5: Labatama – Kheri Khewa (6–7 hours, 11km)

Today offers two options: a gentler lower route, or the more rewarding high trail, which we recommend. The trail passes shimmering lakes, including the sacred Serbho Tsho, before climbing to a high pass at 4,520m. For those with energy, continue to Jomo Peak Viewpoint (4,716m), believed to be the abode of goddess Aum Jomo. On clear days, views of Jomolhari and Kanchenjunga reward your efforts. Descend past pastures to reach Kheri Khewa campsite.

Day 6: Kheri Khewa – Tshokam (6–7 hours, 10km)

Traverse through Dagala’s ethereal landscapes, crossing a high pass over 4,200m with magnificent panoramas. The trail gradually descends through changing alpine vegetation until you reach Tshokam (the ‘dried lake’), your final campsite on the trek.

Day 7: Tshokam – Chamgang – Thimphu

Descend for about 8km (4 hours) to Chamgang, where vehicles await. Bid farewell to your trekking staff and ponies before driving to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. The afternoon is at leisure—perhaps unwind with a traditional hot stone bath or a rejuvenating massage.

Day 8: Thimphu – Paro

Begin with a visit to the colossal Buddha Dordenma, overlooking the valley, followed by a city walk along Norzin Lam Street, where even the traffic is guided by hand signals instead of lights. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, the handmade paper factory, and a thangka painting school where young artists keep ancient traditions alive. Explore Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Thimphu, and the stately Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s monarchy and government. Evening transfer back to Paro.

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of Bhutan’s mystical landscapes and cultural treasures.