Adventure and Outdoor Tours

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek (10 N/11 D)

Day-by-Day Schedule

Day 1

Arrive Paro

  1. Kyichu Lhakhang (Afternoon)
    • One of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, dating back to the 7th century and built by King Songtsen Gampo. The complex includes two temples and a small museum dedicated to Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, offering insight into his life and teachings.
  2. National Museum (Ta Dzong)
    • A former 17th-century watchtower restored as Bhutan’s National Museum, showcasing the country’s culture, traditions, and natural history.
  3. Paro Rinpung Dzong
    • An impressive fortress-monastery serving as the administrative and religious center of Paro, home to a large monastic community.
  4. Evening
    • Free time to explore Paro town at a relaxed pace.
  5. Overnight: Paro

Day 2

Paro

  1. Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest):
    • Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, Taktsang Monastery clings dramatically to a cliff face 300 meters above the Paro Valley. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche, the founder of tantric Buddhism in the Himalayas, meditated here in the 8th century for three months. The original temple was built in the 17th century but was destroyed by fire in 1998 and later rebuilt to its former glory in 2003.
  2. Taktsang is considered one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world. Visitors can explore three temples within the main complex. Ponies are available upon request.
  3. Overnight in Paro.

Day 3

Paro – Gur

Time: 4–5 hrs

Drive to Genekha Village (2,800 m) to begin the trek. After crossing a bridge over the Wang Chhu (Thimphu River), follow a gradual ascent through oak forests to a rocky platform ideal for rest. Continue through birch and bamboo forests to reach the campsite at Gur (3,350 m).

Overnight: Campsite

Day 4

Gur – Wataching

Time: 5 hrs

Ascend on a well-defined trail into the alpine zone with expansive valley views. Reach Gibze Kebze (3,710 m), a potential acclimatization campsite. If conditions permit, continue across rhododendron-covered hillsides to Pagalabsta La Pass (4,170 m), offering superb views of the Dagala Range. Descend to Wataching (4,100 m) near a stone yak herder’s hut.

Overnight: Campsite

Day 5

Time: 4–5 hrs

Cross several ridges and enter the rugged Labatama Valley, dotted with yak herders’ huts. Camp near Utsho Lake (4,250 m), famous for its golden trout. Time permitting, climb Jomo Peak, passing Setsho Lake. On clear days, enjoy views of Kanchenjunga and Chomolhari. Jomo is revered as a protective female deity, and locals may request respect rituals at the lower summit.

Overnight: Campsite

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Tashichho Dzong: Seat of Bhutan’s government and royal offices since 1952

Day 12

Day 13

Samtengang Trek (9 N/10 D)

Day-by-Day Schedule

Day 1

Arrive Paro – Thimphu

  1. Altitude: Paro 2,200 m | Thimphu 2,320 m
  2. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, drive to Thimphu. En route, stop at:
    • Tachog Iron Chain Bridge, built in the 15th century by Thangtong Gyalpo
    • Chhuzom, where the Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu rivers converge, marked by three chortens
  3. In Thimphu, visit:
    • National Memorial Chorten
    • Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point) with panoramic city views
    • National Takin Reserve
    • Tashichho Dzong, the seat of government and monastic body
    • Evening at leisure exploring Thimphu town and handicraft stalls.
  4. Overnight: Thimphu

Day 2

Thimphu

  1. Morning hike to Cheri Monastery, founded in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
  2. Continue sightseeing:
    • Folk Heritage Museum
    • Royal Textile Academy
    • Watch a traditional archery match at Changlimithang Stadium
    • Explore Thimphu town, handicraft stalls, or weekend farmers’ market
  3. Overnight: Thimphu

Day 3

Thimphu To Punakha

Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,150 m) with views of the eastern Himalayas and 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens.

Visit:

  • Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)
  • Punakha Dzong, former capital of Bhutan
  • Punakha Suspension Bridge

Overnight: Punakha

Day 4

Punakha – Limbukha

9 km | 4 hrs | 940 m ascent

Begin the trek by crossing Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge over the Pho Chhu. Ascend through terraced fields, pine forests, oak, fern, and rhododendron. Enjoy views of the Punakha Valley and distant Himalayan peaks.Camp at Limbukha (2,220 m), a historic village believed to have once been a lake.

Overnight: Campsite

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic site, perched 300 m above the Paro Valley. Ponies available upon request.

Overnight: Paro

Day 10

Sinchula Winter Trek (11 N/12 D)

Day-by-Day Schedule

Day 1

Arrive Paro -Thimphu

  1. Altitude: Paro 2,200 m | Thimphu 2,320 m
  2. National Museum (Ta Dzong): Built in the 17th century as a watchtower, it was later converted into a museum showcasing Bhutanese art, history, and culture.
  3. Paro Rimpung Dzong: Headquarters of the Paro district, this dzong houses both the administrative offices and a monastic body of about 200 monks.
  4. Iron Chain Bridge (Tachog Lhakhang): A 15th-century bridge built by Thangthong Gyalpo. A separate cattle bridge runs beside it.
  5. Chhuzom: Where the Paro and Wang Chhu rivers meet; three chortens here ward off evil according to Bhutanese tradition.
  6. Drive to Thimphu. Orientation on Bhutanese customs and traditions.
  7. Overnight: Thimphu

Day 2

Thimphu

National Memorial Stupa: Built in 1974 by the Royal Grand Queen Mother to honor the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the “Father of Modern Bhutan.” Devotees circumambulate the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and reciting mantras.

Buddha Point (Great Buddha Dordenma): A 51.5 m statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, one of the largest in the world, offering panoramic views of Thimphu valley.

National Takin Reserve: Home of Bhutan’s national animal, the mythical takin.

Tashichho Dzong: Seat of Bhutan’s government since 1952.
Evening: Explore Thimphu town, handicraft stalls, and weekend farmer’s market.
Overnight: Thimphu

Day 3

Thimphu

Cheri Monastery: Hike 15 km north of Thimphu for 30–45 mins to this monastery, established in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is a major teaching and retreat center of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu sect.

Folk Heritage Museum: Offers a glimpse of traditional Bhutanese rural life, household objects, and crafts.

Royal Textile Academy: Preserves Bhutan’s living art of weaving, displaying regional patterns and traditional costumes.
Evening: Watch an archery game at Changlimithang Stadium, Bhutan’s national sport.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 4

Thimphu – Sinchula

Drive from Thimphu to Dechhencholing or Kabjesha to start the trek. Begin a moderate 4–5 hour ascent through blue pine, oak, and rhododendron forests to reach Sinchula Pass.

Overnight: Camp at Sinchula

Day 5

The trail passes through remote villages and mixed forests. Views of Thinley Gang village, Talo Monastery, and the Thimphu highway are visible along the route. Trek gradually descends to Dupsingpang (2,440 m).

Overnight: Camp at Dupsingpang

Day 6

Dupsingpang – Chorten Nebu

Start with a 4-hour descent through dense forests, crossing a small stream twice.

Continue 3–4 hours through rice fields and villages to reach Chorten Nebu (1,810 m), home to an ancient temple.

Overnight: Camp at Chorten Nebu

Day 7

Chorten Nebu – Punakha

Trek through several small villages to reach the vehicle pickup.

Drive to Punakha, ancient capital of Bhutan.

Visit Sangchen Dorji Lhendrupchling Nunnery, perched above Khuruthang town.

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 8

Punakha – Paro

Punakha Suspension Bridge: A picturesque and thrilling photo spot.

Day 9

Paro

Day 10

Depart Bhutan

Tsaluna Path Trek (15 N / 16 D)

Day-by-Day Schedule

Day 1

Arrive Paro

  1. Kyichu Lhakhang (Afternoon)
    • One of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, dating back to the 7th century and built by King Songtsen Gampo. The complex includes two temples and a small museum dedicated to Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, offering insight into his life and teachings.
  2. National Museum (Ta Dzong)
    • A former 17th-century watchtower restored as Bhutan’s National Museum, showcasing the country’s culture, traditions, and natural history.
  3. Paro Rinpung Dzong
    • An impressive fortress-monastery serving as the administrative and religious center of Paro, home to a large monastic community.
  4. Evening
    • Free time to explore Paro town at a relaxed pace.
  5. Overnight: Paro

Day 2

Paro

  1. Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest):
    • Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, Taktsang Monastery clings dramatically to a cliff face 300 meters above the Paro Valley. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche, the founder of tantric Buddhism in the Himalayas, meditated here in the 8th century for three months. The original temple was built in the 17th century but was destroyed by fire in 1998 and later rebuilt to its former glory in 2003.
  2. Taktsang is considered one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world. Visitors can explore three temples within the main complex. Ponies are available upon request.
  3. Overnight in Paro.

Day 3

Paro – Jele Dzong

Distance: 8 km | Duration: 4–5 hrs | Ascent: 1,090 m | Altitude: 3,480 m

A short but scenic trek ascending gradually to Jele Dzong. On a clear day, enjoy views of Paro Valley and snowcapped mountains. Above camp are Jele La (3,400 m) and Jele Dzong, with a Lhakhang containing a Buddha Shakyamuni statue.

Overnight: Campsite

Day 4

Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha

Distance: 10 km | Duration: 3–4 hrs | Ascent: 310 m | Descent: 50 m | Altitude: 3,770

Begin with a 1.5-hour climb followed by a gradual ascent through rhododendron alpine forests. Enjoy fine views of Mt. Chomolhari and surrounding Himalayan peaks. Spot pheasants and yak herders near camp.

Overnight: Campsite

Day 5

Ascent: 330 m | Descent: 310 m

The trail starts with a short climb along a ridge. On a clear day, panoramic views of Mt. Jomolhari and other Himalayan ranges are visible. Stop for lunch at Jimilangtsho Lake (3,700 m), then descend through fir forests to Langrithang, reaching Tsaluna campsite.

Overnight: Campsite

Day 6

Day 7

National Memorial Stupa: Built in 1974 by the Royal Grand Queen Mother to honor the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Devotees circumambulate while reciting prayers.

Buddha Point (Great Buddha Dordenma): A 51.5 m statue with panoramic views of Thimphu.

National Takin Reserve: Home of Bhutan’s national animal, the mythical takin.

Tashichho Dzong: Seat of Bhutan’s government since 1952, housing the throne room and ministries.

Evening: Explore Thimphu town and handicraft stalls.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 8

Folk Heritage Museum: Traditional Bhutanese rural life, tools, and crafts.

Royal Textile Academy: Preserves Bhutan’s art of weaving.

Day 9

  • Drive via Dochula Pass (3,150 m) with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens and panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Chimmi Lhakhang: 15th-century fertility temple built by Lam Ngawang Chogyal.
  • Punakha Dzong: Palace of Great Bliss, coronation site of Bhutan’s first king and winter residence of the central monk body.
  • Punakha Suspension Bridge: Scenic photo opportunity.

Overnight: Punakha (1,300 m)

Day 10

  • Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten: 30 m tall, consecrated in 1999. 45 min–1 hr round trip hike.
  • Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery: Houses a 14-foot Avalokiteshvara statue and a permanent learning center for nuns.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 11

Crane Information Centre: Observe black-necked cranes and learn about Phobjikha Valley’s ecology.

Day 12

Day 13

Snowman Trek (26 N/27 D)

Day-by-Day Schedule

Day 1

 Arrive Paro, Paro – Thimphu

  1. After arrival in Paro, drive to Thimphu, stopping at key landmarks along the way. Visit the historic Iron Chain Bridge near Tachog Lhakhang and Chhuzom, the confluence of the Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu rivers, marked by three protective chortens.
  2. In Thimphu (2,320 m), explore the National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point) with panoramic valley views, the National Takin Reserve, and Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body.
  3. Evening at leisure to explore Thimphu town or local handicraft stalls.
  4. Overnight: Thimphu

Day 2

Thimphu

Folk Heritage Museum: Displays traditional Bhutanese lifestyle, artifacts, and live demonstrations.

Royal Textile Academy: Preserves and promotes Bhutan’s living weaving tradition.

Evening: Watch an archery game at Changlimithang Stadium (national sport) or explore weekend farmer markets.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 3

Thimphu To Punakha

Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,150 m), decorated with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens.

  • Chimmi Lhakhang: Known as the “Abode of Fertility.”
  • Punakha Dzong: Winter residence of the central monk body and historic coronation site of Bhutan’s first king.

Punakha Suspension Bridge: Photogenic and thrilling for adventurers.

Overnight: Punakha (1,300 m)

Day 4

Punakha/Tashithang – Damji

Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs

Trek along riverside paths through subtropical forests. Look for wild orchids and beware of leeches.

Camp at Damji (2,400 m).

Day 5

Continue through forested villages to Gasa Tshachu (hot spring), famous for healing properties. After lunch, climb to Gasa Dzong (2,900 m) for overnight camp.

Day 6

Gasa – Chamsa

Distance: 13 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs

Visit Gasa Dzong, then trek steeply up to Bele-La Pass (3,700 m) through mixed forests. Descend to Chamsa camp (3,650 m).

Day 7

Chamsa – Laya

Distance: 22 km | Duration: 8–9 hrs

Descend to Mo Chu riverbank, cross, have lunch, then gradually climb to Laya (3,800 m). Pass an army camp en route.

Day 8

Laya

Explore Laya village. Visit local houses and enjoy Bhutanese hospitality with tea and chang (barley brew).

Day 9

Laya – Rhodophu

Distance: 19 km | Duration: 8–9 hrs

Descend to army camp, follow a river trail, then climb through rhododendrons to a hanging valley with grazing yaks (4,350 m). Camp by the river.

Day 10

Rhodophu – Tarina

Distance: 25 km | Duration: 10–11 hrs

Start early (~5 am).

  • Climb Tsimo-La Pass (4,700 m) for views of Lunana, Chomolhari, and Jichu Drake.
  • Level walk 4 hrs to Ganglakarchung-La Pass (5,080 m).

Descend to Tarina Valley (3,980 m) for camp.

Overnight at campsite.

Day 11

Tarina – Wochey

Descend through coniferous forests along upper Pho Chu, climb over a ridge to Wochey (3,800 m).

Day 12

Wochey – Lhedi

Walk through mixed forests and rhododendron bushes. Climb Keche-La Pass (4,480 m), descend to Lhedi village (3,650 m).

Day 13

Lhedi – Thanza

Day 14

Thanza

Optional ridge climb for panoramic mountain views.

Day 15

Thanza – Tshorim

Climb a ridge with views of Table Mountain and Thanza valley, follow a stream, camp at Tshorim (5,125 m).

Day 16

Tshorim – Gangkar Puensum Base Camp

Day 17

Gangkar Puensum Base Camp

Day 18

Gangkar Puensum Base Camp – Geshe Woma

Day 19

Geshe Woma – Warathang

Day 20

Warathang – Dhur Tshachu

Day 21

Dhur Tshachu – Tshochemchem

Distance: 16 km | Duration: 8–9 hrs

Steady climb, passing lakes, grazing yaks, and herder camps (3,850 m).

Day 22

Tshochemchem – Bumthang

Day 23

Bumthang

  1. Kurje Lhakhang (Guru Rimpoche rock imprint)
  2. Jambay Lhakhang (7th century)
  3. Jakar Dzong
  4. Tamshing Monastery (ancient wall paintings)

Day 24

Bumthang – Trongsa

3-hour drive. Visit Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong.

Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 25

Depart Trongsa – Paro

Day 26

Paro

Day 27

Depart Paro

Key Details

Inclusion