Laya/Gasa Trek

		20-Day Laya/Gasa Trek. Level: Strenuous High-season cost (Jan. to June and Sept. to Dec.) Individual travelers: $4380 2 people in a group: $4190/person 3 or more people in a group: $3620/person Trekking level: The Laya Gasa trek is strenuous as far as endurance, so you must be in good physical condition. Technical experience is not necessary, but you should be fit enough to hike for 6 to 8 hours over up-and-down terrain, carrying a small daypack. The cost includes the Bhutan government tariff, surcharge, all accommodations, meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner), a licensed English-speaking guide, and a driver and vehicle. On the trek, most major supplies will be provided: 2-person sleeping tent, sleeping bag, toilet tent, dinning tent, kitchen tent, sleeping pad, cooking staff, pack animals (horses) for carrying luggage and supplies. The cost does not include Druk Air fare, a visa fee of US$20, airport tax, alcohol, gifts/souvenirs, or travel insurance. Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Arrive Paro international airport During the flight, on a clear day, you can see breathtaking views of the Himalaya Mountains, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. On arrival you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, you'll hike to Taktsang Monastery, which is perched on a cliff 900 meters above Paro valley. It is one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan. It is said that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site of this monastery on the back of a tigress and meditated there for three months. In the afternoon you and explore the Paro town. Overnight in Paro Day 2: Trek Begins. Paro - Shana (distance 17km, time 5-6 hours) You'll begin the day by driving up to Drugyal Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort), where the road ends. You'll visit the dzong, which was built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan's victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600s. The trek begins, following the Paro river gently uphill through rice paddy terraces, apple orchards, and forest, passing the village houses. Overnight at camp. Altitude 2,800m. Day 3: Shana - Soi Thangthangkha (distance 22km, time 6-7 hours) The trail continues to gradually climb along the side of the Paro river. The valley narrows and closes, and the path then winds along the stream. This day's trek is not difficult, but it is long, and there are many short ups and downs. Nearby where you will stop for lunch you can see the route to Tremo La, which is paved in stone and served as the main trade route to the Phari Dzong in Tibet. It was also the main invasion route of the Tibetans ages ago. The camp is in a meadow with a stone shelter. On a clear day you will see Jumolhari Mountain. Overnight at camp. Altitude 3,630m. Day 4: Soi Thangthangkha - Jangothang (distance 19km, time 5-6 hours) This day's trek is not long, but there is an altitude gain of 450m. The path continues up the Paro river, past a small army post, where the valley begins to widen again. Here you will have a view of the high ridges and snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas. You may see the winter homes of the yak herders, as well as some yaks. Along the way there is a village, where you can visit the yak herders and share a cup of yak butter tea with them. You can also buy yak cheese--"chugo"--which is a dried cheese. The camp is below a ruined fortress at the base of Jumolhari, and it is one of the most beautiful camps in Bhutan. Altitude 4,090m. Day 5: Jangothang halt Today is a day of acclimatization. You may choose from four day hikes: a 3- to 4-hour hike up to a ridge that gives a good view of Jichu Drake; a hike up to the head of the valley, toward Jumolhari; a trek up the main valley toward Jichu Drake; or a hike to Tsophu for fishing. Or you can relax at the camp. Altitude 4,090m. Day 6: Jangothang - Lingshi (distance 18km, time 5-6 hours) This day's trek will take you over Nyile La (pass), which is at 4,890m. It tends to be windy at the pass. You can see yak pastures on the way. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter some nomads. You will have a great view of Lingshi Dzong further along the trail. It's also possible to see blue sheep and musk deer. Tserim Gang Mountain and glaciers are at the north end of the Lingshi valley. Overnight at camp. Altitude 4,010m. Day 7: Lingshi - Chebisa (distance 10km, time 5-6 hours) Today is an easy walking day, and much of the trail is level. Flowers and medicinal herbs cover the hillsides. On the way you will pass through the village of Goyak, which is surrounded by barley fields. The camp is in the valley of Chebisa, and you can visit the village houses if you wish. Altitude 3,880m. Day 8: Chebisa - Shomuthang (distance 17km, time 6-7 hours) You will begin the hike with a steep ascent to Gombu La (pass) at 4,440m. On the way, you will likely spot yak herders, blue sheep, and vultures. After crossing Gombu La you will descend to a valley filled with rhododendron. Several more ups and downs will eventually take you to the camp by the river. Altitude 4,220m. Day 9: Shomuthang - Robluthang (distance 18km, time 6-7 hours) This day's hike is little strenuous, and you will begin the trek early. You will cross Jhari La (pass) at 4,747m about two hours into the trek, and from here you can see snow-capped mountains in the distance. You will descend from the desolate Jhari La to the forested valley of Tsherijathang, where you may see herds of takins, depending on the time of year. This is a protected area for the takin. Camp at Robluthang. Altitude 4,160m. Day 10: Robluthang - Limithang (distance 19km, time 6-7 hours) This is a challenging day with steep climbs and descents and high altitudes. You will cross the highest pass on the trek--Sinche La at 5,005m--about five hours into the trek. You will eventually descend to the camp at Limithang. Altitude 4,140m. Day 11: Limithang - Laya (distance 10km, time 4-5 hours) Today's trek includes several short ups and downs, and you will traverse a heavily forested valley. The trail leads to the village of Laya. You will see people dressed in the typical Laya costume, with long pointed bamboo hats on their heads. Camp in Laya village. Altitude 3,840m. Day 12: Laya halt You can explore the small Layap community of slightly more than 800 people who live in the northern borders of the country. This area has been isolated and untouched by modern civilization for decades. The yak is an important source of income for the Layaps. Yaks are used to plow the fields, and they are a source of meat, diary products, and hair for mattresses, blankets, and other items. The main means of support for the Layaps is trade, though cash trade has now replaced the barter system. The Layaps acquire goods from China--such as blankets, rugs, plates/cups, thermoses, shoes, and clothes--and sell them in Punakha. They also sell homemade butter and cheese, along with cordyceps harvested in Laya. Day 13: Laya - Koena (distance 19km, time 6-7 hours) The trail winds up and down along the river valley, through deep forests. You will have breathtaking views of the rushing river. Camp at Koena. Altitude 3,050m. Day 14: Koena - Gasa (distance 14km, time 6-7 hours) During this day's trek, you will cross one small pass--Bari La--at 3,900m. At one point you will go through a bamboo forest. After the pass, the trail is mostly downhill until you reach the camp site in Gasa. Altitude 2,770m. Day 15: Gasa halt Today you can explore Gasa. You can visit the dzong and relax in the Gasa Tsachu (hot spring), which is a soothing relief after all the trekking. The Gasa Tsachu is one of the most popular hot springs in Bhutan. Camp at Gasa. Altitude 2,770m. Day 16: Gasa - Geon Damji (distance 18km, time 5-6 hours) The trail has several ups and downs but nothing substantially steep. You will have a beautiful view of the Gasa Dzong and the snow peaks near Laya. The trail drops into a subtropical ravine filled with fern and trees before crossing a suspension bridge above a deep gorge. Camp at Geon Damji. Altitude 2,430m. Day 17: Trek Ends. Geon Damji - Punakha (distance 16km, time 5 hours) The trail makes a long descent to the river, and you may see monkeys along this portion of the trail. The hike will take you through lush subtropical vegetation, including banana trees, creepers, and orchids. The trail ends at the road in Tashithang. You will be met by your driver and driven to your hotel in Punakha. If you wish, you can visit the Punakha Dzong on the way. Overnight in Punakha. Day 18: Punakha - Thimphu After breakfast you will drive to Thimphu. In the afternoon you will visit the National Library (where ancient manuscripts are preserved), the School of Arts and Crafts, the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Changgangkha Monastery, a traditional paper factory, and the zoo. You will also visit the King's Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972) and the majestic Tashichodzong and explore the interesting handicraft shops. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 19: Thimphu - Paro After breakfast you will visit the Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimphu. In the afternoon you will drive to Paro and en route visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan. In the evening you can visit a traditional farmhouse and, if you wish, enjoy a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight in Paro.

Tour in Western Bhutan

		12-Day Cultural Tour in Western Bhutan with 6-Day Druk Path Trek Druk Path Trek Photos High-season cost (Jan to June and Sept. to Dec.) Individual travelers: $2640 2 people in a group: $2530/person 3 or more people in a group: $2200/person Low-season cost (July and August) Individual travelers: $2255 2 people in a group: $2145/person 3 or more people in a group: $1815/person The cost includes the Bhutan government tariff, surcharge, all accommodations, meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner), a licensed English-speaking guide, and a driver and vehicle. The cost does not include Druk Air fare, a visa fee of US$20, airport tax, alcohol, gifts/souvenirs, or travel insurance. Detailed Itinerary Trek level: Moderately strenuous Day 1: Arrive Paro international airport The flight to Paro crosses the Himalaya Mountains, affording spectacular views of the awesome peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. Upon arrival in Paro, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you can visit the Paro Dzong. It was built in 1646 and now houses government offices and religious institutions, as do all the dzongs (forts) currently. You'll cross a traditional wooden bridge on the way to the dzong. You can then tour the National Museum, formerly the watchtower for the dzong. It now houses a collection of fine arts, paintings, thankas, statues, and antiques. Afterward you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country. In the evening you can stroll through the Paro market and town. Overnight in Paro. Day 2: Paro - Thimphu (morning hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery) After breakfast hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan's most famous monastery. Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. It is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. The hike to reach the viewpoint to the monastery makes for a nice half-day excursion. After lunch, drive to Thimphu. In the evening you can explore Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, and absorb the lifestyle of the people. You can also visit some interesting handicraft shops. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 3: Thimphu sightseeing After breakfast you will visit the King's Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), Changgangkha Monastery, the radio tower (for a great view of Thimphu Valley and the Thimphu Dzong), and the zoo, which contains the national animal of Bhutan: the takin. From there you will visit the nunnery temple, the National Library (where ancient manuscripts are preserved), and the School of Arts and Crafts (also known as the painting school). After a relaxing lunch, you will visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, a traditional paper factory, the majestic Tashichodzong, and Simtokha Dzong (the oldest fortress in the kingdom). Overnight in Thimphu. Day 4: Thimphu - Wangduephodrang (3-hour drive) After breakfast you will drive to Wangduephodrang, with a stop en route for tea at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. After lunch you will drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, and visit Punakha Dzong, which is noteworthy both for being one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and also for having been built by the first Shabdrung in 1637. On the way back, you will stop at Metshina Village and take a 20-minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lakhang, which is a fertility temple, where you may receive a special fertility blessing if you wish. Day 5: Wangduephodrang - Thimphu In the morning you will drive back to Thimphu. In the afternoon you can visit the Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum. Or you can hike to Tango Monastery, which was built by the "Divine Madman" in the 15th century. It's a center of study for monks, and it affords a great view of the Thimphu Valley. On the grounds of the monastery is a "sin-testing" tunnel--it is said that if you have sinned, you will get stuck in the tunnel, and if you are without sin, you will go through with ease! Overnight in Thimphu. Day 6: Trek Begins. Thimphu - Phajoding (distance 8km, time 4-5 hours) The trek is all uphill through forest, mostly blue pine, this first day. The camp is at Phajoding Monastery, and you can walk around the area and see the monastery. Altitude 3,870m. Day 7: Phajoding - Simkota Tsho (distance 10km, time 5-6 hours) The trail continues to climb for about an hour until you reach Phume La (pass) at 4,210m. From here you will have a view of Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan, as well as other Himalayan peaks. The trail then descends to Simkota Tsho (lake), where the camp is located. It's possible to go trout fishing here if you wish. Altitude 4,040. Day 8: Simkota Tsho - Jimilang Tsho (distance 11km, time 5 hours) The trail will take you on short ups and downs and through a yak herder camp. Before arriving at the camp, the trail will descend through dwarf rhododendrons. The camp is at Jimilang Tsho (Sand Ox Lake), where you will again have the chance to fish for giant trout, which the lake is known for. There is a good view of Jichu Drake Mountain from here. Altitude 3,880m. Day 9: Jimilang Tsho - Jangchu Lakha (distance 11km, time 5 hours) The trek will begin with an hour-long ascent, following the ridge above the tree line and then eventually descending. The camp is near a yak herders' camp, and there are lovely views of Jumolhari Mountain from here. You may spot some pheasants in the area. Altitude 3,780m. Day 10: Jangchu Lakha - Jili Dzong (distance 10km, time 4-5 hours) There are many ups and downs above the tree line during the first half of the trail. The trail then descends through rhododendron and thick alpine forest to Jili Dzong and across Jili La (pass) at 3,490m. You can visit the dzong and explore the area. The camp is a ways below the dzong, in a yak pasture. Altitude 3,450. Day 11: Trek Ends. Jili Dzong - Paro (distance 10km, time 4 hours) The trail today is all downhill, past some villages. The trail ends near the Ta Dzong in Paro. You will be met by your driver and driven to your hotel in Paro. In the evening you can visit a traditional farmhouse and, if you wish, enjoy a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight in Paro.

14-Day Cultural Tour With a 3-Day Bumthang Trek

		14-Day Cultural Tour With a 3-Day Bumthang Trek High-season cost (Jan to June and Sept. to Dec.) Individual travelers: $3300 2 people in a group: $2930/person 3 or more people in a group: $2540/person Low-season cost (July and August) Individual travelers: $2665 2 people in a group: $2535/person 3 or more people in a group: $2145/person The cost includes the Bhutan government tariff, surcharge, all accommodations, meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner), a licensed English-speaking guide, and a driver and vehicle. The cost does not include Druk Air fare, a visa fee of US$20, airport tax, alcohol, gifts/souvenirs, or travel insurance. Detailed Itinerary Trek level: Easy This trek requires a minimum of four people and cannot be arranged for groups of fewer than four. Day 1: Arrive Paro international airport During the flight, on a clear day, you can see breathtaking views of the Himalaya Mountains, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. On arrival you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you can visit the Paro Dzong. It was built in 1646 and now houses government offices and religious institutions, as do all the dzongs (forts) currently. You'll cross a traditional wooden bridge on the way to the dzong. Afterward you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country. In the evening you can stroll through the Paro market and town. Overnight in Paro. Day 2: Paro - Thimphu (2-hour drive) After breakfast hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan's most famous monastery. Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. It is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. The hike to reach the viewpoint to the monastery makes for a nice half-day excursion. After lunch, drive to Thimphu. In the evening you can explore Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, and absorb the lifestyle of the people. You can also visit some interesting handicraft shops. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 3: Thimphu sightseeing After breakfast you will visit the King's Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), Changgangkha Monastery, the radio tower (for a great view of Thimphu Valley and the Thimphu Dzong), and the zoo, which contains the national animal of Bhutan: the takin. From there you will visit the nunnery temple, the National Library (which houses ancient manuscripts), and the School of Arts and Crafts (also known as the painting school). After a relaxing lunch, you will visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, a traditional paper factory, the majestic Tashichodzong, and Simtokha Dzong (the oldest fortress in the kingdom). Overnight in Thimphu. Day 4: Thimphu - Wangduephodrang/Punakha (3-hour drive) After breakfast you will drive to Wangduephodrang, with a stop en route for tea at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. After lunch you will drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, and visit Punakha Dzong, which is noteworthy both for being one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and also for having been built by the first Shabdrung in 1637. On the way back from Punakha, you will stop at Metshina Village and take a 20-minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lakhang, which is a fertility temple, where you may receive a special fertility blessing if you wish. Overnight in Wangduephodrang. Day 5: Wangduephodrang - Trongsa (5-hour drive) You will begin the day by driving to Gantey. You'll pass through dense forests of oak trees and rhododendrons and arrive at Gantey village, where you'll visit Gantey Gompa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan. From Gantey, you can see the picturesque Black Mountain range as well as Phobjika Valley, the winter habitat of the black-necked cranes. From there you'll head to Trongsa, the ancestral home of the royal family. The route is along a spectacular winding road, crossing 3,300-meter-high Pele La, and at certain times of year it's possible to see yaks. You can browse through the Trongsa shops and town in the afternoon. Overnight in Trongsa. Day 6: Trongsa - Bumthang (3-hour drive) In the morning you'll visit Trongsa Dzong, the masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture, and you'll also see Ta Dzong, the watchtower built to defend this dzong. After lunch, you'll proceed to Bumthang, the religious heartland of the nation, with lush valleys and hilly forests. Along the way you will stop at a yethra (textile weaving) factory, where the yethras are designed with patterns unique to Bumthang, and you can even watch some of the weavers at their looms. You can spend the evening strolling through Bumthang town. Overnight in Bumthang. Day 7: Bumthang sightseeing After breakfast you will visit the following places: -- Jakar Dzong (fortress) -- Jambey Lhakhang (one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan) -- Kurjey Lhakhang (temple of Guru Rinpoche's body print) -- Tamshing Lhakhang (see old Buddhist paintings) -- Konchogsum Lakhang -- Mebar Tsho (flaming Lake) You can spend the evening exploring Bumthang town. Overnight in Bumthang Day 8: Trek Begins. Toktu Zampa - Ngang Lhakhang (distance 12km, time 4-5 hours) The trek begins fairly level through buckwheat fields, and shortly into the hike you will arrive at Thangbi Monastery, which was founded in 1470. The trail then continues through meadows and forest and makes a short but steep ascent to a small settlement in an area known as Ngang-yul (Swan Land). There are two interesting water-driven prayer wheels at the temple here, and there are statues and paintings inside. Camp nearby. Altitude 2,800m. Day 9: Ngang Lhakhang - Tahung (distance 16km, time 6 hours) The trail starts off level but soon begins a long climb through cool, deep forest, where you will see lots of bamboo and moss. You will eventually arrive at Phephe La (pass) at 3,360m. The descent is again through thick forest, until the trail emerges into fields and meadows and heads down into a valley. Camp in the valley. Altitude 2,790m. Day 10: Trek Ends. Tahung - Mesitang (distance 15km, time 5-6 hours) The route follows the Tang River down the valley to the village of Tang and eventually to the main valley at 2,640m. At this point you can take a short side trip up to Ugyen Chholing Palace, which was built in the 16th century in the traditional Bhutanese design and now houses a collection of artifacts. Your driver will meet you at the end of the trail at Mesitang to take you back to your hotel, where you can freshen up before dinner. Overnight in Bumthang. Day 11: Bumthang - Wangduephodrang (6-7 hour drive) You'll begin the day at the Bumthang market, and then drive to Wangduephodrang, where you can stroll through the town and visit the shops. The nearby villages are known for their slate and stone carvings and bamboo work. Overnight in Wangduephodrang. Day 12: Wangduephodrang - Thimphu (3-hour drive) In the morning you will drive back to Thimphu. After lunch, you can tour the Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum, and you can explore the interesting handicraft shops. Or you can hike to Tango Monastery, which was built by the "Divine Madman" in the 15th century. It's a center of study for monks, and it affords a great view of the Thimphu Valley. On the grounds of the monastery is a "sin-testing" tunnel--it is said that if you have sinned, you will get stuck in the tunnel, and if you are without sin, you will go through with ease! Overnight in Thimphu. Day 13: Thimphu - Paro (2-hour drive) You can spend the morning shopping in Thimphu. If it's the weekend, you can stroll through the market to see the variety of food of the country, including basket upon basket of fiery chilies, fresh cheese, and mangoes. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items. It's fun to wander the aisles, taking in the bustling atmosphere of the market. In the afternoon, you will drive to Paro. You will tour the National Museum, which was formerly the watchtower for the Paro Dzong. It now houses a collection of fine arts, paintings, thankas, statues, and antiques. From there you will be taken to the Drugyel Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort), which was built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan's victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600s. On a clear day you can see Mount Jumolhari, Bhutan's second-highest mountain at 7,329 meters, from the village below the dzong. In the evening you can visit a traditional farmhouse and, if you wish, enjoy a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight in Paro. Day 14: Depart Paro

Jumolhari Trek Rount Mate

		14-Day Jumolhari Trek in Bhutan. Jumolhari Trek Route Map High-season cost (Mar. Apr. May. Sept. Oct. Nov.) Individual travelers: $3120 2 people in a group: $2990/person 3 or more people in a group: $2600/person Trekking level: The Jumolhari trek is strenuous as far as endurance, so you must be in good physical condition. Technical experience is not necessary, but you should be fit enough to hike for 6 to 8 hours over up-and-down terrain, carrying a small daypack. The cost includes the Bhutan government tariff, surcharge, all accommodations, meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner), a licensed English-speaking guide, and a driver and vehicle. On the trek, most major supplies will be provided: 2-person sleeping tent, toilet tent, dinning tent, kitchen tent, sleeping pad, cooking staff, pack animals (horses) for carrying luggage and supplies. The cost does not include Druk Air fare, a visa fee of US$20, airport tax, alcohol, gifts/souvenirs, or travel insurance. Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Paro During the flight, on a clear day, you can see breathtaking views of the Himalaya Mountains, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. On arrival you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon you can visit the Paro Dzong. It was built in 1646 and now houses government offices and religious institutions, as do all the dzongs (forts) currently. You'll cross a traditional wooden bridge on the way to the dzong. You can then tour the National Museum, formerly the watchtower for the dzong. It now houses a collection of fine arts, paintings, thankas, statues, and antiques. Afterward you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country. In the evening you can explore Paro town. Overnight in Paro. Day 2: Paro - Acclimating day (hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery) After breakfast you'll hike to Taktsang Monastery, which is perched on a cliff 900 meters above Paro valley. It is one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan. It is said that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site of this monastery on the back of a tigress and meditated there for three months. In the afternoon you and explore the Paro town. Overnight in Paro Day 3: Trek Begins. Paro - Shana (distance 17km, time 5-6 hours) You'll begin the day by driving up to Drugyal Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort), where the road ends. You'll visit the dzong, which was built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan's victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600s. The trek begins, following the Paro river gently uphill through rice paddy terraces, apple orchards, and forest, passing the village houses. Overnight at camp. Altitude 2,800m. Day 4: Shana - Soi Thangthangkha (distance 22km, time 6-7 hours) The trail continues to gradually climb along the side of the Paro river. The valley narrows and closes, and the path then winds along the stream. This day's trek is not difficult, but it is long, and there are many short ups and downs. Nearby where you will stop for lunch you can see the route to Tremo La, which is paved in stone and served as the main trade route to the Phari Dzong in Tibet. It was also the main invasion route of the Tibetans ages ago. The camp is in a meadow with a stone shelter. On a clear day you will see Jumolhari Mountain. Overnight at camp. Altitude 3,630m. Day 5: Soi Thangthangkha - Jangothang (distance 19km, time 5-6 hours) This day's trek is not long, but there is an altitude gain of 450m. The path continues up the Paro river, past a small army post, where the valley begins to widen again. Here you will have a view of the high ridges and snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas. You may see the winter homes of the yak herders, as well as some yaks. Along the way there is a village, where you can visit the yak herders and share a cup of yak butter tea with them. You can also buy yak cheese--"chugo"--which is a dried cheese. The camp is below a ruined fortress at the base of Jumolhari, and it is one of the most beautiful camps in Bhutan. Altitude 4,090m. Day 6: Jangothang halt Today is a day of acclimatization. You may choose from four day hikes: a 3- to 4-hour hike up to a ridge that gives a good view of Jichu Drake; a hike up to the head of the valley, toward Jumolhari; a trek up the main valley toward Jichu Drake; or a hike to Tsophu for fishing. Or you can relax at the camp. Altitude 4,090m. Day 7: Jangothang - Lingshi (distance 18km, time 5-6 hours) This day's trek will take you over Nyile La (pass), which is at 4,890m. It tends to be windy at the pass. You can see yak pastures on the way. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter some nomads. You will have a great view of Lingshi Dzong further along the trail. It's also possible to see blue sheep and musk deer. Tserim Gang Mountain and glaciers are at the north end of the Lingshi valley. Overnight at camp. Altitude 4,010m. Day 8: Lingshi halt Explore Lingshi valley and relax after the previous day's vigorous trek. Day 9: Lingshi - Shodu (distance 22km, time 8-9 hours) The trail ascends up to Yeli La (pass) at 4,820m, where, on a clear day, you will see Jumolhari, Tserim Gang, and Masagang mountains. The trail descends, following a stream. Overnight at camp. Altitude 4,110m. Day 10: Shodu - Barshong (distance 16km, time 5-6 hours) The trail crosses the Thimphu River several times and winds gently up and down alongside the river. At one section of the trail you will notice a massive steep canyon on one side and a cypress forest on the other. You will then ascend up to the ruins of the Barshong Dzong. The camp is just below the ruins. Overnight at camp. Altitude 3,680m. Day 11: Barshong - Dolam Kencho (distance 15km, time 5-6 hours) The trail descends gradually through a forest of conifers and rhododendron and then begins a steep descent to the Thimphu River. You will ascend again into a meadow, where the camp is located. Altitude 3,430m. Day 12: Trek Ends. Dolam Kencho - Thimphu (distance 8km, time 3 hours) The trail winds in and out of valleys above the Thimphu river and then makes a long climb through a forest of conifers and high-altitude broadleaf species up to a 3,510m pass. The trail then begins a steep descent to the river, following it southward to the road in the town of Dodina. At Dodina, you will be met by your transportation for the drive to your hotel in Thimphu. In the late afternoon you can stroll through the town. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 13: Thimphu- Paro (morning sightseeing) After breakfast you will visit the National Library (which houses ancient manuscripts), the School of Arts and Crafts, the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Simtokha Dzong (the oldest fortress in the kingdom), Changgangkha Monastery, a traditional paper factory, and the zoo. In the afternoon you will visit the King's Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972) and the majestic Tashichodzong, tour the Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum, and explore the interesting handicraft shops. In the late afternoon you will drive to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

Tour in Butan

		Trekking in Bhutan An exhilarating way to see the beautiful wilderness of the kingdom is to trek! The trails will lead you through a variety of terrain, from lush forests to panoramic mountain passes. You will have a chance to see some traditional villages, and you will likely meet up with some yak herders and spot some of Bhutan's wildlife, such as takins, monkeys, and blue sheep. Our treks range from the easygoing Gantey trek through deep valleys, to the moderately strenuous Druk Path trek linking Thimphu and Paro, to the challenging higher-altitude Laya/Gasa and Jumolhari treks. Each day you will enjoy 6 to 8 hours of scenic hiking in the peaceful surroundings, followed by a relaxing feast. With our team of experienced guides, you will have an unforgettable adventure. On your trek, you will be provided: a two-person sleeping tent, a toilet tent, a dining tent, a kitchen tent, sleeping pads, cooking staff, pack animals (horses) for carrying luggage and supplies, and a trekking guide. You will need to bring a duffel bag for your clothing and other items because the pack animals cannot carry hard-back suitcases. You will be accompanied by your guide. There will be about a total of 5-6 people on your trek (guide, cook, cook's helper, 2-3 horse men and horses). You can carry a small backpack, and the horses will carry your heavier luggage. Your trekking staff will put up the tents in the evening and take down the tents in the morning for you every day on your trek. You do not need to do anything except relax and enjoy your trek. This short, moderate-elevation trek is ideal for novice trekkers or for those who want to experience the beautiful wilderness of Bhutan without the demands of a long, strenuous trek. This three-day trek begins in the meadows of Phobjika Valley (2830m), the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes. The trail itself will have some ups and downs, with the highest point being Tsele La (pass) at 3440m. You will hike through a variety of vegetation, including rhododendron, bamboo, juniper, ferns, magnolia, and sometimes orchids. You will also get a chance to see the daphne plants, from which the Bhutanese make traditional paper. Season: This trek is possible from March to May and from September to November. The best months are April and early May, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. It requires an itinerary of at least 10 days. Itinerary This moderately strenuous 6-day trek takes you across the mountains separating the Paro and Thimphu valleys. You can go from Paro to Thimphu or reverse. The trail will take you through blue-pine forests, thick alpine forests, and dwarf rhododendrons. The highest point of the trek is Phume La (pass) at 4,210m. From there you can see Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan. On this trek you can also get amazing views of Jumolhari Mountain and other Himalayan peaks. You will camp near Phajoding Monastery one night and can explore the area. You will also have opportunities to fish in some of Bhutan's most beautiful lakes. There is a good chance you will see yaks and yak herders on this trek. Season: This trek is possible from March to June and from September to November. It requires an itinerary of at least 10 days. Itinerary