Trekking

---

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

Maximum Elevation: 4,210 m

Preferred Season: February-June, September-December

Day 1 – Paro  - Jele Dzong

Distance: 10 kms

Time: 4-5 hours

Camp Altitude: 3,480 m

The start of the trek is a steep uphill climb from the National Museum (2,487 m) above Paro, passing through apple orchards, the village of Damchena and pine forests until Jele Dzong (3,490 m) which is perched on a whaleback ridge. Jele Dzong today is mostly in ruins although there is a Lhakhang with the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. Overnight camp at 3,480m.

Day 2: Jele Dzong - Jangchulakha

Distance: 10 kms

Time: 3-4 hours

Camp Altitude: 3,780 m

The path starts with a gradual ascent and then descends below the ridgeline, meandering through a trail of thick alpine forests and rhododendrons where yaks can generally be found grazing. There are fascinating views of Jhomolhari and other snow capped mountains and with the possibility of being greeted by monal peasants during the day. A short uphill walk ends at a yak herders’ pasture at Jangchulakha (3,780m) with outstanding views of the Himalayan range where the campsite is close by.

Day 3: Jangchulakha - Jimilangtsho Lake 

Distance:11 kms

Time: 4-5 Hours 

Camp Altitude: 3,880 m

The trail follows the ridge and at times wanders through juniper trees and dwarf rhododendrons. The views of the mountain valleys of Thimphu and Paro are sensational. After making an ascent followed by a steep descent, we arrive at Jimilangtsho Lake (3,880m). The lake is famous for their giant sized trouts. Near the camp, are pleasant, yet striking views of the towering Jichu Drake (6,989 m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Overnight camp close to Jimilangtsho Lake.

Day 4: Jimilangtsho - Simkota  via Janetsho Lake

Distance: 11 kms

Time: 4 hours 

Camp Altitude: 4,110 m


The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and bypasses the lake of Janetsho. The trail winds and undulates with magnificent views of the Himalayas across deep valleys. Simkotatsho Lake (4,110m) can be seen below after crossing one final spur. The trek continues until reaching a yak pasture where the camp for will be setup for the night.

Day 5: Simkota - Thimphu city via Phajodhing (3,870m)

Distance: 14 kms

Time: 7 hours 

The final day of the trek begins with a gradual climb to a small saddle at 4,150m which presents a fascinating view of Mount Gangkar Puensum and other Himalayan peaks on a clear day. The following descent takes the hike to another small lake. Ascend onwards to Phume La pass (4,210 m), adorned with beautiful prayer flags and providing a bird’s eye view of Thimphu valley. The trail slowly descends through junipers trees to a community hall near Phajodhing monastery (3,870m). Walk way down hill to Thimphu through a forest of blue pine and juniper until arriving at Sangaygang road on the outskirts of Thimphu valley.