Trekking in Bhutan

Magical Majestic mountainous(3M) Trek

Jomolhari ► Laya ►Gasa

Many new trekking routes are opened in Bhutan by Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB), but  the long- established route from Mount Jomolhari across Laya, we call it 3M will always rank as one of Bhutan's best trekking routes. Because it offers a great variety of trekking conditions like: picturesque farmland, magical forest to an awesome lunar landscape, immense glistening peaks, and abundant wildlife, including blue sheep, Takin, wide variety of birds and the elusive snow leopards. There are many isolated fortress (Dzongs) and scattered settlements, including the outlandish village of Laya, which provide a great deal of cultural interest's en route. The trek may be long and challenging, because it traces a loop along Bhutan's north western border with Tibet but this trek always the most beautiful of any trek in the Himalayas.
At AMJ tours and travels would take as a privilege to take you across these beautiful mountains, gorgeous valleys and awesome flora and fauna.  Join us on this trek, and we assure you that you have the lasting memory of this special trek.

Trek Duration: 15 including 3 rest days

Total Duration: 23 days

Max. Elevation: 5,005 m at Sincela pass between Robluthang and Limithang
Max. Campsite: 4,220m at Shomulthang. Average Campsite elevation is around 4,000m

Trekking category: Difficult

From our experience, we have found that after first few days of trekking, one is as fit as pro and so anyone with some trekking experience can do it.

Best Seasons
Best to start trek from late March till mid May or from September till mid October

Trip Costs

Cost is provided on the number of participants and dates of travel. For groups of 3 or more persons, the cost is around $250 per night, however individual directly contacting us may be given to the maximum of 10% discount.

Included:
 Bhutan royalties
 Accommodation in listed hotels or similar during the tours and in tents during the trek.
 All meals including evening tea throughout the trip.
 During the trek: fully organized trek with Tents, Thermal Pads, Blow pillow , Hot-water bag, Pressured Altitude Bag (Gamow or PAC for emergencies, Pack animals to carry luggage and additional riding pony for emergency riding. Basic Medical Kit.

Trekking Highlights

You are exposed to abundant wildlife such as Blue Sheep & Takin in addition to other bird and mammals. On top of that you will experience remote villages of Yaksa, Lingshi, Chebisa, Goyul, Laya and Gasa. Rich and diverse vegetation, meandering river beds and mountains cave would be additional bonus.

Not Included:

 Flights in and out of Bhutan
 Visa Fees
 Personal trekking gears such as sleeping bag, clothing, shoes etc.
 * Sleeping bags are available for rental

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paro and transfer to hotel-
 Drugeyl Dzong,
 Taktshang view,
 Paro Town

Day 2:
 Paro Market,
 Ta Dzong and
 Paro Dzong

Day 3: Hike to Takstang and return to Paro.

Day 4: Drive to Drukgyel Dzong (2580m) and start trek for Shana which is easy 4-5hr trek. Overnight in camp 2850m

Day 5: Steady ascent following Paro river valley upstream with chances of wildlife sightings. Camp at Soi Thangthaka at 3610m.

Day 6: Break above the tree line to Chomolhari Base Camp area (4050m).

Day 7: A free day in open yak-pastures for exploration in Jangothang.

Day 8: Ascend to rocky Nyelela pass (4870m) and descend to Lingshi campsite (4010m)

Day 9: Short day trek of about 4-5hrs to Chebisa village (3,880m)

Day 10: Cross the Gobula pass (4440m) with spectacular views and descend to
Shomulthang at 4220m.

Day 11: Climb over Jharila pass (4750m), with view s of Mt Gangchenta and descend to theTserijathang valley with herds of wild Takin and camp at Robluthang (4160m)

Day 12: Cross the Sinche la pass (5005m) into Lemithang (4140m).

Day 13 & 14: From Limthang it is around 4-5 hour trek to Laya (3840m).
We spend one extra day to rest and visit Laya, one of the highest villages in Bhutan.

Days 15, 16 & 17: From Laya descend to Koena (3050m) and then next day trek to Gasa Dzong(2770m). On day 17, visit Gasa town/village and make a short descent of around 2 hours to the hot springs – Gasa Tsachu (2240m) where we spend the afternoon for laze, soaking in comfortable natural hot springs.

Day 18: After 4 hours of trek, we reach a feeder road head at Goen Damji village with terraced rice fields at 2430m. Meet the transport and drive for about 4 hours to Punakha. We will lodge you in the Tourism Council Approved hotel or similar at Punakha.

Day 19: Relax and rest in the Hotel till lunch time, in the afternoon we will visit Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang

Day 20: We will move to Thimphu early in the morning at 9 O Clock, have beautiful sight seeing at Dochula and arrive in the Thimphu Hotel and then we will visit Seat of the King ( from outside), National Memorial Chorten (Stupas) and end the day by going up at Sangaygang to view the whole Thimpu town.

Day 21: Centenary farmer's market, National Traditional Medicines, National Library and in the afternoon leave it to the guest for the free shopping. Overnight in hotel

Day 22: Departure.

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Nabji-Korphu Community Based Tourism
(16 Nights/17 Days)

The Nabji Trail is an ideal post-harvest/winter trekking open from October up to the end of March. The trail is set out in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, a park with an ecological rich environment. The park, located in central Bhutan, is also home to several cultural rich agricultural villages. The trail is a six-day low-altitude trek (between 693m/23100ft and 1,636m/5453ft) through six different villages located inside the park. Starting point Riotala (1060m/3533ft) and final destination Tongtongphey (1061m/3537ft) are two small villages along the Trongsa-Zhemgang road, situated in the buffer area of the park at the east side of the Mangde Chhu (river).
On this trek, you will possibly see the Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei), one of the rarest primates, which can only be found in Bhutan and neighbouring Assam. Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park is also home to the endangered Rufous-necked Hornbill (Aceros nepalensis). More so, the trail is a superb place for birding (common mynas, blue-fronted redstarts, long-tailed shrikes and Eurasian sparrows, to name just a few common species, but spotted are also serpent eagle, golden-throated barbet, and the yellow-bellied flowerpecker) and has a wide variety of plants and flowers found in this Himalayan area (from Chir Pine, broad-leaved trees and Bamboo, to Rhododendrons and wild Orchids).
Besides the natural beauty of the area, the area also contains cultural history, witnessed among others by the presence of a commemorative pillar in the temple of Nabji. The pillar symbolises the occasion that peace was negotiated between the two kings (King Nauche from India and King Sindu from Bhutan) intermediated by Guru Rimpoche in the eight century. Along the six day trail more traces of Guru Rimpoche's presence during those days can be found.
The last two days of the trek will go through the homeland of the Monpa people. The small traditional villages of the Monpa community are scattered on the slope overlooking Mangde Chhu. The Monpas are thought to be the first settlers in Bhutan, the Mangde Chhu valley representing one of the earliest areas of settlement in Bhutan. The Monpas practice a mix of animistic shamanism and Buddhism. Monpa refers to "the people of darkness" referring to their isolated position in the past. In general term Mon refers to people without religion that symbolises period before the advent of Buddhism in Bhutan. They were originally hunters and food gatherers and their culture, tradition and practices are intrinsically linked to the forest around them. They are traditionally cane weavers and bamboo crafters, using their skills for house construction, making baskets and other household items.

Day 1: Arrive Paro
Arrive at Paro. Received by AMJ representative and transfer to the hotel. Lunch at the hotel. Afternoon visit National Museum of Bhutan. You will have time to admire the museum's collection of rare Bhutanese artifacts and art, traditional weaving and other eclectic pieces. After the museum visit the Paro Dzong (17th Century Fortress) which now houses the offices of the district administration and the district monk body. You will then hike down to the traditional cantilever bridge. One of the scenes in the film Little Buddha includes this bridge. Your transport will pick you up from the other side of the river. Evening at explore around Paro town. Overnight at hotel. – L/D

Day 2: Paro – Thimphu
Morning drive to Thimphu – the capital town of Bhutan. Upon arrival check in and lunch at the hotel. After lunch sightseeing begins with the visit to the Memorial Choeten, a stupa built in 1974 to honor memory of the 3rd King, His Late Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The stupa is one of the most elegant masterpieces built in the 20th century with detail religious wall paintings and sculptures. Then visit the 14th century Changangkha Lhakhang, which is also a focus of daily worship for many Thimphu residents. Then drive Sangaygang – the viewpoint. It is also known as "Lover's Point," where young couples come to enjoy the bird's eye view of the Thimphu valley. Then you will visit the Dupthob Lhakhang built by Dupthob Thangthong Gyalpo, also known as "Iron Bridge Builder" in Bhutan's history. It is now a nunnery and it has more than 70 practicing nuns. You will then visit the Handicrafts Emporium for souvenirs. Overnight at hotel. -B/L/D

Day 3: Thimphu
After breakfast, you will visit the Textile Museum, National Library – a tall stately building in the traditional Bhutanese style that is a repository of precious historical and religious manuscripts written in gold. Next you will visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum – a painting school where the traditional style of Thangka Painting is passed on to the next. You will then visit the Traditional Paper factory. Lunch in restaurant in town. After lunch you will drive north of Thimphu valley to visit Tango Monastery. It is now a college for learning higher Buddhist philosophy. It was more than 200 monks. It's a moderate hike through the forest of oak and rhododendron. It's one hour hike one day. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel. – B/L/D

Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast drive to Punakha – the ancient capital of Bhutan. The drive takes you across Dochula Pass (3100 m) which is marked by a large Bhutanese style Choeten, 108 small choetens and prayer flags. If weather is clear you will have an opportunity to enjoy the most spectacular views of the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas. The road to Punakha descends from the pass through the magnificent pine and rhododendron forests and wanders through some of Bhutan's most spectacular countryside. Punakha, situated at an elevation of 1400 m served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and it stills serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the Central Monk Body. Blessed with temperate climate and fed with the Po Chu (Male) and Mo Chu (Female) rivers, Punakha is one of the most fertile valleys in Bhutan. The climate allows for two crops of rice to be grown a year. And is also good for growing fruits with oranges and bananas in abundance. Check in and lunch at the hotel. Afternoon lunch visit Wangduephodrang Dzong built in 1638 and explore Wangdue town. Evening visit the YANA farmhouse which will offer a closer look at the country's unique culture that dictates simple hospitality extended to any and all guests, even to perfect strangers. Dinner and overnight at hotel. -B/L/D

Day 5: Punakha – Trongsa
After breakfast drive down the valley to the town of Wangduephodrang, where there is a very large fortress and an interesting town. Continue on the road to east, through ever changing vegetation as road gradually winds its way up towards the Pelela Pass at 3400 m. On a clear day, views of the valleys and mountains are magnificent. After making several stops en-route for pictures, we arrive in time for lunch at Chendebji. After lunch continue to Trongsa. Evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight at Guest House. -B/L/D

Part II: Trekking

Day 6: Riotala – Nimshong (6.5km; 3-4 hours) – TREK BEGINS
Trongsa (2,200m/7,333ft)-Nimshong village (1,319m/4,367ft)
The first day starts with a brief tour through Trongsa Dzong and its Ta Dzong strategically located above the Mangde River. From there the bus will follow the road towards Zhemgang to halt in Riotola (1,060m/3533 ft), the start of Nabji Trail. Keep an eye open for deer and macaques along the way but notice the beautiful view over Mangde Valley as well.
The trek starts with a steep descent of 693m/2310 ft, to the bed of Mangde River; within one and hour from the river you can have a rest at a place called Matling (804 m/2600 ft). After half an hour you will come across a chorten that indicates the entry to the Nimshong village which is a steep climb for about two hours from the river. Nimshong is a small (circa 58-household) village, which has a population of about 465 people. The villagers welcome you with dance and songs while cooks are preparing diner. The campsite (1319m/4397 ft) is just beside the Nimshong Community School next above the village. Overnight in Camp. – B/L/D

Day 7: Nimshong – Nabji (13km; 4-6 hours)
Nimshong Campsite (1319m/4397 ft)-Nabji Campsite (1,300m/3827ft)
Early in the morning, the village guide will take you to the local temple. From there the hike will go through a lush broadleaf forest alive with abundant bird and mammal life, with possible sightings of Golden Langur and Rufous-necked Hornbill. Nabji is pretty much at the same elevation as Nimshong village; however, the trail will move up and down through a dense forest. Nabji consists of 55 households and an approximate population of 400 people. The village is situated on a foothill above terraced fields of rice. The temple of Nabji -which means 'promising' or 'oath'- harbours the stone pillar to mark the peace between Bumthang and Assam Kings. In the village you can find rock remains of a blacksmith (one of the reincarnations of Pema Lingpa). Overnight at campsite surrounded by the rice fields of Nabji. Overnight in Camp. -B/L/D

Day 8: Nabji – Halt (9.5-13km; 4-5 hours)
Nabji village (1,300m/3827ft)-Korphu Lunch spot 1,636m/5453ft)
From our base camp in Nabji, we will do a day hike to Korphu village. Korphu is situated on a mountaintop at an altitude of 1,500m/5000ft. The village consists of 76 households, with an approximate population of 600 people. It is a spectacular hike uphill, and the view from the clustered village of Korphu is breathtaking. It is possible to visit Korphu's temple, which houses the sacred relics of Pema Lingpa. A local lunch will be provided in the village. In the mid-afternoon, we hike back to Nabji. Overnight in Camp. -B/L/D

Day 9: Nabji – Kubdra (11-14 km; about 5-7 hours)
Nabji/Korphu campsite-Kubdra Camp site (1636m/5,453ft)
Our trek today starts on a trail to Kubdra village, leaving Nabji village at the holy tree. The trail has it own beauty; you will come across dense forest, big trees with clippers, orchid and small bamboos. After 5 to 6 hours hike, you can rest on the benches provided; enjoy your lunch with a nice view of water fall at a place called Zhelyung (1565m/5217ft.). Then after few hours walk you will come across an ethnic group (called the Monpas) inhabited in Kubdra. Kubdra is situated in the middle of the forest, around 6 hours walking from Nabji. Along the way you'll find traces of Guru Rimpoche. The habitat you traverse is very attractive for tigers and leopards (though it is very rare to spot them, droppings and spores can be found). Kubdra only has 3 households, but the few Monpas living here are very happy to welcome you at their campsite. Overnight in Camp. -B/L/D

Day 10: Kubdra – Jangbi (13-14,5km; circa 6 hours)
Kubdra Camp site (1636m/5453ft)-Jangbi village (1368m/4560ft)
The hike continues from Kubdra to Jangbi village. Again traces of Guru Rimpoche can be found along the way (foot print, dragger and hat). A brief visit will be paid to the small village of Phrumzur with its temple (at 1,400m). From the site of the temple there's a good view over the valley, here lunch will be served. From Phrumzur the hike continues, with great vistas and pristine forest along the way. A welcoming tea is prepared in the orchid garden in Jangbi. Here you will also find more information on the Monpas and their Cane and Bamboo Project. Camp will be set near Jangbi village with a beautiful view over the valley and Mangde Chhu. Overnight in Camp. -B/L/D

Day 11: Jangbi – Tongtongfey – Trongsa (7-9.5km; about 3-4 hours) – TREK ENDS
Jangbi Campsite (1,368m/4,560ft)-Tongtongfey (1,061m/3,537ft)-Trongsa
Today there is a steep descent of 950 meters, which will bring you to the bridge crossing the Mangde Chhu; after that there will be a last climb to Tongtongfey. From here, the bus will bring you back to Trongsa for a real bed and shower. If time permits, you can visit the Kuenga Rabten Palace and the Nunnery (on the way back to Trongsa). Overnight in Trongsa at Guest House. -B/L/D

Day 12: Trongsa – Jakar
Morning drive to Jakar across Yotongla (3450 m) and descend into the valley of Chumey, the first of four Bumthang valleys. Bumthang valley is one of the most sacred in the kingdom and innumerable legends surround the area. It is here that the kings were cremated and the present royal families trace their ancestry back to a famous saint called Pema Lingpa, who was also a smith in Jakar. Jakar is also wide and large valley compared to other valleys in Bhutan. Most prefer to explore the valley on foot and almost all sites are located along the easy walking path. Here we will have time to watch the Weavers and see the weaving of Bhutan's colorful and textiles. Jakar, the center of Bumthang valleys is only about half hour drive from here. Check in and lunch at hotel. After lunch visit Jambay Lhakhang (7th century), Kurjey Lhakhang and Jakar Dzong. Evening at leisure. Overnight and dinner at Guest House. -B/L/D

Day 13: Jakar
Option 1: Excursion to Ura valley
Day excursion to Ura valley. Hot lunch will be served at Ura village. After lunch visit Ura Lhakhang where you will have time to admire the wall paintings. Return to Jakar for your final night in Jakar. Dinner and overnight at Kaila Guest House or similar. – B/L/D

Option 2: Hike to Tharpaling Monastery

After breakfast hike Tharpaling Monastery. It's a moderate all day hike through the forest of pine, oak and juniper trees. This hike offers panoramic views of Chamkhar valley. Dinner and overnight Guest House. – B/L/D

Day 14: Jakar – Punakha
Today you will drive back to Punakha with photo stops along the way. Lunch at the Chendebji restaurant. After lunch walk around the Chendebji Choeten (Stupa). This stupa was built in the 18th century by Lama Sidha to cover the remains of an Ogress subdued at this stop. After lunch resume your return journey. Overnight at hotel. -B/L/D

Day 15: Punakha – Paro

After breakfast you will hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Choeten built in 1994 by Her Majesty Azhi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck for the well-being of the people and country. It's a moderate hike through the rice paddies and pine forests. The hike takes about 45 minutes one way. The view of the valley from the Choeten is magnificent. Then you will visit the Punakha Dzong and admire the beauty of the Bhutanese architecture where dzongs were built without iron nails. You will also have time to admire the paintings on the life of the Buddha. Lunch in restaurant in Khuruthang town. After lunch you will drive to Paro. Overnight at hotel. – B/L/D

Day 16: Paro (Excursion to Tiger's Nest Monastery)
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 Emadatshi (A chili cheese dish), vegetables with cheese sauce and other dishes. Farewell dinner and overnight hotel. -B/L/D

Day 17: Departure
After breakfast you will drive to Paro International Airport for your onward destination. Your AMJ tours and travels Team will assist you with check in formalities and bid you farewell.

Book at amjtours@gmail.com or yakherder2004@druknet.bt : visit for tariff and other information

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Bumthang Cultural Trek

Duration: Three days, Max. Elevation: 3,360m
Highest Camp: 2,800m
Standard: Easy to medium
Best Seasons: March to May & September to November
Start: Toktu Zampa (Bumthang)
Finish: Mesithang (Bumthang)

Summary:

The Bumthang Cultural Trek. Bumthang is well known as one of the main cultural centres of Bhutan and there are many opportunities to visit temples and small Bhutanese villages along the trek route. Although the trek is on the easy side, it involves a few major climbs like the one up to Pephe La with an ascent of about 500 m.

Day 1: Toktu Zampa – Ngang Lhakhang (Distance 12km, four to five hours, 170m ascent, camp altitude 2,800m). The route follows the Chamkhar Chu, a river known for trout. Stop for lunch at Thangbi Lhakhang. From here the trek enters the Ngang Yul (Land of the Swan) at the centre of which lies the Ngang Lhakhang (Swan Temple). In by-gone days, the valley was populated by swans, and hence the name Ngang Yul.

Day 2: Ngang Lhakhang – Tahung (Distance 16km, six hours, 750m ascent, 670m descent, camp altitude 2,720m). The day starts out across meadows and with the view of the valley below. Then you climb gradually to Phephe La (3,360m), the highest point of the trek route. The trail passes through beautiful forested areas where many stops can be made to enjoy the natural beauty of the place. The path leads you downhill into a broad valley. Amongst several possible camping places the most likely one is uphill behind the village of Tahung.

Day 3: Tahung – Mesithang (Distance 16km, four to five hours, 230m descent). The trail follows the Tang Chu, another trout-filled river. On the bank of the river is the Tang Rimpoche's Lhakhang. The trek will pass the Mebar Tsho (Flaming Lake) and lead you to Tang Ugyen Choling. Ugyen Choling Palace houses one of the most interesting museums of Bhutan. From here you will soon reach the road head.

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Bumthang Owl Trek

Duration: Three days
Highest Camp: 4000m
Standard: Easy to medium
Best Seasons: November, December, March, April, May & June
Start: Menchugang (Bumthang)
Finish: Tharpaling monastry (Bumthang)

Summary:

This is a combination of culture and alpine natural world. It is a three day trek passing through Dhur village. Natural scenery is magnificent and views of Gangkar Puensum (the highest unclimbed peak in the world) is possible. In autumn trekkers should be careful about the Himalayan Black bears. In April-May, enjoy the sightings of beautiful pheasants such as the Himalayan Tragopan. The trek ends through Tharpaling monastry which gives you a chance to delve into monastic livelihood. The ending trail joins the Royal Route (trail used in the medieval days) at Kikila pass. Highlights of this trek are: village at Dhur, healthy forests of blue pine, hemlock, fir, spruce, juniper, bamboo spices, rhododendrons, birch, maple, chestnut. April onto early June is the season for rhododendrons flowers all along the route. The trail offers high mountain views and great number of bird and other wildlife. Of culture the Tharpaling and Zhambala monasteries offer great respite. Time this trek with one of Bumthang's numerous festivals. The trek is recommended from March to May and then again from September to November.

Day 1:
The trek starts from Manchugang and reach Dhur village at an elevation of 2900 meters. The inhabitants of the village are the Kheps and Brokpas (nomads). This village has two different dialects, the usual Bumthang Kha and the Brokke (nomadic dialects). Near the river is a traditional water-driven flour mill which used to be a source of livelihood for the people of Dhur village. Resuming the trek is the uphill climb through the blue pine forest towards the campsite at Schonath (3450m) in hemlock and juniper forest. The hauling of owls through the night is quite common, hence the name The Owl Trek.

Day 2:
Day two is trekking through fresh forest of hemlock, fir, spruce and many species of rhododendron which are in full bloom during the months of April and May. The trekking also takes you through the forest of bamboo which is the main undergrowth in this forest.
After few hours of walking you will arrive at the Drangela Pass (3600m). Climbing up the Kitiphu ridge brings you to an altitude of about 3870m which is the night campsite. From this point you can have a fresh view of snow capped mountains and valleys underneath. This is also when you can view the mount Gangkarpunsum (7541m), the highest unclimbed peak in the world.

Day 3:
On day three you descend towards the monasteries of Zambhalha, Chuedak and Tharpaling. Chuedak monastery has 100 Avoloketeshvaras in the form of Chukchizhey (eleven heads) where you may pray for yourself and all living beings. You might even stop for many holy water around this place to quench your thirst, wash your sins and purify your body and soul.
Towards the afternoon the trek will take you along the ridge of Kikila and following the traditional trek route between Trongsa and Bumthang (the Royal Heritage Trail) through scenic hills and forests. Finally you will have the best view of Jakar Dzong and come to end of the trek at Bumthang.

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Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

Duration: Six days, Max. Elevation: 4,520m
Highest Camp: 4,300m
Standard: Medium
Best Seasons: April to June and September to October
Start: Gynekha (Thimphu)
Finish: Chamgang (Thimpu)

Summary:

Although the trek leads up to plenty of beautiful high altitude mountain lakes and provides stunning views of the whole Bhutanese Himalayan range as well as Kanjenjunga (3rd highest mountain of the world, Sikkim) it is still not a very popular trek. You might not meet any other trekkers during the whole trek. It is also possible to start and end the trek in Gynekha. The optional route back to Gynekha leads through beautiful Bhutanese villages. Although most days are short, the day from Gur to Labatama involves a lot of climbing and is, therefore, pretty strenuous.

Day 1: Gynekha – Gur (Distance seven km, five hours, 550m ascent, 210m descent, camp altitude 3,290m). The trek starts from beautiful Gynekha village with a short descent down to the river. From here – after crossing the river – you start climbing till you reach a huge rock platform from where you have a picturesque view of the valley below. After another two hours you reach Gur, some yak pastures below the main trail.

Day 2: Gur – Labatama (12 km, 5 hours) (Distance 12km, six hours, 1,220m ascent, 110m descent, camp altitude 4,300m). While trekking across the ridges, one enjoys the beauty of the rugged mountain vegetation. The path winds through flowers and wild asparagus (in spring). The meadows are refreshing and inspiring. The first pass symbolised by a huge cairn gives a spectacular view of Kanjenjunga (Sikkim) and more or less all the Bhutanese Himalayan peaks. Dsecnding the pass one will see the whole Dagala range, meadows and yak herders camp. Once descended into the Labatama valley you ascend gradually through the valley passing some yak herder huts till you reach Uthso Tsho. The campsite is right next to the lake.

Day 3: Relaxation day at Labatama. This day is ideal for an excursion to any of three lakes: Reli Tsho, Hen Tsho and Jama Tsho. The day and place is also ideal for trout fishing.

Day 4: Labatama – Panka (Distance 8km, six to seven hours, 260m ascent, 520m descent, camp altitude 4,000m). The trail climbs along the western side of Dala Tsho up to a saddle at 4,520m from where you have again a majestic view of Himalayan peaks during descent. This point is around 4,460m. The mountain peaks include Everest (Nepal), Kanchenjunga (Sikkim), Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Tshering Gang, Khangbum, Masang Gang, Tsende Gang and Gangche Ta. If you want an even better view, you can climb a peak close to the saddle with an altitude of 4,720m. From the saddle the path descends, passing some yak herder huts to Doccha Chhu. You follow the river for a while, but stay higher up on the slope to reach Panka with some ups and downs on the way.

Day 5: Panka-Talakha (Distance eight km, five to six hours, 180m ascent, 110m descent, camp altitude 3,080m). This day entails the crossing of several passes, none of them affording a major climb. Search for different varieties of blue poppy (June-July) and mountain birds. After crossing the last pass, Tale La (4,180m) you start a long descent to Talakha Gompa. You will camp right besides the monastery and wake up with the early morning prayers of the monks. One has a great view of Bhutan's capital Thimphu.

Day 6: Talakha – Chamgang (Distance six km, three hours, 440m descent). From the monastery it's a short walk down to the feeder road which will lead you to the village of Chamgang.

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Druk Path Trek

Duration: Six days,Max.Elevation: 4,200m
Highest Camp: 4,110m
Standard: Easy to medium
Best Seasons: March to June & September to November
Start: National Museum in Paro
Finish: Mothitang (Thimphu)

Summary:
Druk Path Trek is one of the most popular treks in Bhutan. It is a short and scenic trek with some great views and beautiful lakes en route. Although it leads up to altitudes above 4,000m it is not too strenuous as walking distances between the camps are not too long. Besides the lakes, it is the Phadjoding monastery that is one of the highlights of this trek.

Day 1: Paro – Jili Dzong (Distance seven km, four to five hours, 1,090m ascent, camp altitude 3,480m). The first day is a long day as you have to climb more than 1,000m elevation. You start from the Ta Dzong (National Museum) in Paro. The trek follows a gravel road past a few farms for about 30 minutes and then climbs up a steep ridge before leading through blue pine and fir forests to Damche Gom. Once you reach the ridge below Jili Dzong you descend about 100m to the campsite below Jili Dzong.

Day 2: Jili Dzong – Jangchulakha (Distance 10 km, four to five hours, 310m ascent, 50m descent, camp altitude 3,770m). You begin with a climb for about an hour and a half and then ascend gradually up. The trail takes you through thick alpine forest and dwarf rhododendron tress. You may see yaks and yak herders around your campsite.

Day 3: Jangchulakha – Jimilang Tsho (Distance 11 km, four hours, 230m descent, 330m ascent, camp altitude – 3,870m). The trail follows the ridge and on a clear day the view of the mountains and valley are beautiful. The campsite is close to the Jimilang Tsho Lake. The lake is known for its giant sized trout.

Day 4: Jimilang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho (Distance 11 km, four hours, 820m ascent, 400 m descent, camp altitude 4,110m). The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and Janetso Lake. You may come across some yak herder's camps where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad's life. The campsite is close to Simkotra Tsho Lake.

Day 5: Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding (Distance 10 km, three to four hours, 130m ascent, 680m descent, camp altitude 3,750m). The trek begins with a gradual climb. If the weather permits, you will have a spectacular view of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and other Himalayan peaks. From this pass, the trek takes you downhill to Phajodhing for a nights halt. The camp is above Phadjoding.

Day 6: Phajodhing – Mothitang (Distance fur to five km, three hours, 1,130 m descent). After passing Phadjoding monastery, the trek to Thimphu (Mothitang) is all the way downhill through a forested area of mostly blue pine. The walk, at a leisurely pace, takes about three hours.

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