Itinerary

Day 1      Arrive in Paro

Fly to Paro from Bangkok, Delhi, or Kathmandu (arrival dates into Paro may vary according to city of origin). During this flight, you will experience breathtaking views of the Himalayas. After your arrival in Paro, you will be welcomed by your guide at the airport and then transferred to your hotel. You will have the afternoon and evening free to rest or walk around Paro (7,380 ft.) and savor the feeling of a country that seems to exist in an earlier century. From the dress of the people to the traditional architecture, you know you are in a different kind of place than exists anywhere else on earth. You will be amazed at the fresh, clean air and peaceful environment. NOTE: Flights from Delhi or Kathmandu may require additional nights in Paro.
    
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Bhutanese style lodge    
Day 2      Paro

Your trek begins with a warm-up hike to the famous "Taktsang" (Tiger's Nest, altitude 9840 ft.) This will no doubt be one of the highlights of your stay in Bhutan. Legend says that "the Precious Teacher," Guru Rimpoche, came from Tibet on the back of a flying tigress and landed at what is now Taktsang Monastery. Clinging to the cliff side, the Monastery is a pilgrimage site that all Bhutanese try to visit at least once in their lifetime. The actual monastery is closed to visitors, but you can approach it to a point from which you can appreciate this extraordinary building. After lunch at Taktsang Jakhang, in the afternoon, visit one of the holiest "Lhakhang" of Bhutan, the Kyichyu. Built in the seventh century A.D., this temple dates back to the time of the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. If time permits, visit Ta-Dzong Museum and the Paro Rimpung Dzong, very unique and beautiful structures. The museum houses an exceptional collection of art and ceremonial objects including some of the most exquisite Thangka paintings you will ever see. Return to Paro for your overnight.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Bhutanese style lodge    
Day 3      Begin Trek

After breakfast, drive to Drugyel Dzong, a fortress 11 miles from the hotel. Although now in ruins, this Dzong is of great historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the Tibetans and drove them back. From here, the peak of Chomolhari, "Mountain of the Goddess," can be seen (on clear days). Trek onwards to Shana along the Pahcu Paro River. Alt. 9,184 ft. Dist. 10.5 mi., 5-6 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Camping    
Day 4      Shana/Soi Thangthanka

Still following the Pachu through forests of pine and juniper, you watch the vegetation change as you advance to higher, drier regions. Some of the most resilient Bhutanese live in these valleys, as they were the survivors and defenders of the Kingdom during repeated Tibetan invasion. Camp at 11,545'. Dist. 14 mi., 7-8 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Camping    
Day 5 & 6      Soi Thangthanka/Jangothang (Base Camp)

Stop at Tengethang to visit the summer homes of yak herdsmen. There are close views of Mount Chomolhari and Jichu Dage from Base Camp. You may feel a shortness of breath from the high altitude and will probably appreciate the warmth of your down clothing, but the views are well worth it. Alt. 13,251 ft. Dist. 12 mi., 6-7 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Camping    
Day 7      Jangothang/Lingshi

The trail takes you on a gradual climb across Nyelela pass with views of the Lingshi Dzong and Tserin Kang with its descending glaciers and lakes. Continue on to your campsite near the stream at Lingshi. Alt. 13,612 ft. Dist. 12 mi., 5-6 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Camping    
Day 8      Lingshi/Shodu

Trek through the deep valley and ascend to Yalila pass where Mt. Chomolhari, Tserim Gang, and Masang Gang can all be seen on a clear day. Camp in a meadow at Shodu. Alt. 15,800 ft. Dist. 14 mi., 7-8 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Camping    
Day 9      Shodu/Barshong

Follow the Thi-Chu River through forests of rhododendrons. Enroute you will pass the ruins of Barshong Dzong and camp just below its ruins. Alt. 12,919 ft. Dist. 15 mi., 7-8 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Camping    
Day 10      Barshong/Thimphu

Stop at Dodina to visit Chenri, the first monastery built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Many of the monks of Thimphu who decide to lead a life of meditation start their practices here. Guests are requested to move in silence. Your driver will meet you at Pangrizam and take you to your lodging in Thimphu. Alt 7,600 ft. Dist. 9 mi., 4-5 hours.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Bhutanese style lodge    
Day 11      Thimphu/Paro

Morning visit to Handicrafts Emporium and Thimphu Memorial Chorten. After lunch, visit the great Tashichho-Dzong (administrative and religious center). Return to Paro for your overnight.
    
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Bhutanese style lodge    
Day 12      Paro/Depart

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
    
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: None

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