This is a relatively short, moderate grade trek leading from Paro valley to Thimphu valley, or vice versa, & crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. The route passes through sparsely populated places. One of the interesting features of this trek is the presence of beautiful lakes enroute teeming with fish. Also this area is particularly famous for spectacular rhododendron forests which run riot in the month of May. The best time for this trek is March – May and September – November.
Max. Elevation: 4,200m
Seasons: March to June & Sept. to Nov.
Start: National Museum in Paro
Finish: Mothitang (Thimphu)
Itinerary
1st Day: Paro to Jele Dzong (distance 8km, time 3 hours)
The trek is rather gradual up till a fortress in ruins (3,400 m). Campsite for the day is reached after crossing the 3,400m Jele la pass, arriving at Jele Dzong which is mostly in ruins.
Overnight Tented Campsite
2nd Day: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha (distance 10km, time 3 t0 4 hours)
The route climbs through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons to a saddle at 3,590m. Stunning views of Mount. Zhomolhari (7,314m) and the surrounding mountains can be seen from the trail. The beautiful Monal pheasant can also be seen during the day. Campsite at 3,780m near yak herders’ camp.
Overnight Tented Campsite
3rd Day: Jangchulakha to Jimilang Tsho (distance 11km, time 4 hours)
The trek follows the ridge to a saddle at 4,040m, then drops a bit and follows the ridge back to Jangchu la pass (4,180m). Camp is near Jimilang Tsho (Sand Ox Lake) known for its giant size trout. Also there are good views of Mount. Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro valley.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
4th Day: Jimilang Tsho to Simkota Tsho (distance 11km, time 4 hours)
The trail traverses through dwarf rhododendron trees and Janetsho Lake and passes by yak herder camps. It is a short climb along the side of the ridge and then a short, steep descent to camp at 4,040m which is near Simkota Tsho Lake famous for its trout.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
5th Day: Simkota Tsho to Phajoding (distance 10km, time 3 to 4 hours)
The day begins with a gradual climb to a saddle at 4,180m crossing Phume la pass (4,210m) marked by prayer flags. If weather permits, there are enchanting views of Mount Gangkhar Puensum (7,541m) and other Himalayan peaks here. The trail then descends past Thujidrag Goemba, a meditation centre hanging on the side of a precipitous rock face, continuing further through juniper trees to the campsite near Phajoding Goemba (3,870m), an important pilgrimage site.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
6th Day: Phajoding to Thimphu (distance 5km, time 3 hours)
Today’s trek is all downhill through forested areas of mostly blue pine.
On completion of trek you are collected and transported by road to your overnight accommodation.