Day 2: Paro local sightseeing
The day begins with the drive through the Paro valley to visit the Drukgyel Dzong, a historical Dzong for the Bhutanese, This was the place where the last of the Tibetans invaders were repelled, hence the name “Drukgyel Dzong” meaning the “Fortress of the victorious Drukpas”.

On a clear day one can see the 24000 ft domed majestic Jumolhari Mountain in the background of the fortress blessing the Paro valley, as it is believed that the goddess Jumo resides on this sacred mountain.

On the way to Drukgayel Dzong, you will be able to visit the Kichu Lhakhang, which was built in the 7th century by the King Tshongtsen Gampo, who built about 108 temples all over the Himalayas. Further drive from kichu lhakhang will allow you to see the Majestic view of the Tigers Nest clinging on bare rock face. After lunch visit the National Museum, located in the Ta Dzong (old watch tower for the Paro Dzong), originally built in 1656. This is the only museum in Paro and has the country's best collection of ancient Thankas (religious wall hangings), religious paintings and artifacts, fine textiles, weapons and stamps. It also houses the unique temple of the tree of life, representing the four different sects of Buddhism, as practiced in the country. If time permits, we can go for a promenade through Paro Town. Overnight at Paro.

Day 3: Full Day Excursion to Taktsang “Tiger’s Lair”
After breakfast drive through Paro town and to Satsam Chorten and further continue on the feeder road to the base of Taktsang. It takes about two and half hours to reach the Taktsang monastery. The view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below is just awesome. We stop at the Taktsang cafeteria for tea and snacks and enjoy the view of the Tigers Lair. Special visit permits can be arranged if notified in advance. Following the visit, lunch will be served at the Taktsang cafeteria. After lunch we will descend down to the valley and if time permits, the group will have time to be on their own for the rest of the evening. Overnight at Paro.

Day 4: Paro - Shana
Drive up to Drukgyel Dzong where the motor-able road ends and begin the trek to Shana. The trek is along the Paro river and one will get to enjoy the view of typical Bhutanese farm houses in and around the Mitsi bridge. The trail climbs gently passing through rice terraces, millet fields and apple orchards. After completing formalities at the army check point at Gunitsawa we will trek for another 15-20 minutes and arrive at the camp site. The camp is located at an altitude of 2870M. The trekking distance for the day is about 17KM and should take about 5-6 hours.

Day 5: Shana - Soi Thangthangkha
The trail is a gradual ascent along the Paro River through conifers and Rhododendron shrubs. We need to start early as the trek distance for the day is about 22KM. The path narrows and crisscrosses the Paro river several times and in about two hours we arrive at Shingkharab (3110M), where we will stop at the lone stone house for lunch and refreshments. Following lunch, after a short climb we will arrive on the stone paved trail leading off to the left towards Tremola (the old trade route to Phari, Tibet). One needs to remain alert and avoid this route and instead take the trail on the right side leading down to a wooden bridge. After this, we climb a set of switchbacks and descend down to a cantilever bridge. Thereafter, we will continuously climb gentle slopes up and down until we arrive at a bridge with a white stupa on the other side of the river. It may be reminded that we are not to cross the bridge but to remain on the left side of the river and continue our trek. From this point, after trekking for another 30 minutes we will arrive at our camp site. The camp site is on a beautiful meadow with stone shelters, surrounded by cedar trees. For the first time on the trek, one can view mount Jumolhari in the background. Since this trail can get very muddy if it rains, it is advisable to have your snow guards ready for use. The camp is at an altitude of 3630M. The trekking time for the day is about 6-7 hours.

Day 6: Thangthangkha –Jangothang
The trek for the day is fairly easy. One should maintain a steady pace during the trek and remain cautious of the fact that each day we are gaining altitude and experiencing colder climatic conditions. After trekking for about an hour we will arrrive at an army post. Soon after, we will cross a bridge over a fast flowing stream and following a gentle climb we will passby a meadow with a stupa. From this point on, we are entering into in the yak country. On this stretch, if we are trekking in May-June, we normally come across the beautiful Blue Poppy, the National flower of Bhutan. As you trek up the valley along the Paro river, the valley begins to widen and soon we will arrive at the winter shelter of the yak herders at Takethang where hot lunch will be served. After lunch we will trek for approximately one and half hours and camp below the ruins of the fortress of Jangothang which was destroyed during the war with Tibet in the 17th century. We will camp at the base of Mount Jumolhari at an altitude of 4090M. The trekking distance is about 19 KM and should take about 5-6 hours.

Day 7: Jangothang Halt
Depending on the preference of the group, today we will explore the valley in any of the three directions, namely, one towards the lake; second in the direction of Mount Jumolhari and third towards Mount Jichu Drake. We use the day to get acclimatized with the altitude. This is important as we will be crossing the Nyeli-la pass at an altitude of 4890M the next day. In the event anyone suffers from altitude sickness at Jangothang, it is recommended that the person should not continue beyond this point.

Day 8: Jangothang- Lingshi
Today we will try to start early. In the first part of the trek we will passby the last human settlements, and from this point you can get the most spectacular view of Mount Jichu Drake(6794M). From here we gradually ascend the mountain side towards Nyeli-la pass (4890M). During the ascend you will get breathtaking views of Mt. Jumolhari, Jichu Drake and Tsherimgang (“Mountain goddess of long life and music”). The first climb up the valley appears like the approach to the pass but it is not. When you reach the top of the first ridge then only you will see the real pass. At the pass its very windy and you will not be able to spend much time here. After crossing the pass, we will trek down hill for about ten minutes and stop for lunch. In this area, it is believed that one can spot cordyceps Sinensis(Yatsa Guenbub), a highly priced medicinal herb used in traditional medicine. After lunch, the trail leads you all the way down, and following a short climb, we again climb down to the camp site at an altitude of 4010M. The trekking distance is about 18KM and should take about 6-7 hours.

Day 9: Lingshi – Chebisa
Today's trek will be fairly easy. It will involve crossing the stream below the camp site, across a wooden bridge and then a climb up the opposite side of a chorten just below the Lingshi dzong. If the group members are interested, we can visit the Lingshi dzong. The dzong is located at an altitude of 4220M. It was built in the 17th century and used to control trade between Bhutan and Tibet in the past. To the east of this dzong is a cluster of houses with wooden shingle roofs which form the village of Lingshi. From here we will continue our trek on a comfortable trail and in about an hour we reach a cairn with prayer flags at an altitude of 4140M. This area is known for herbal plants. In the spring, this area is very beautiful, with so many different species of flowers in full bloom. At this point, the route turns into another side valley and makes a long gradual descent into the beautiful village of Gong yuel (3870M). The houses here are built of stone and clustered together, giving it a very unique look. This village is surrounded by large fields of barley and turnip. Bhutan's national bird, the Raven can often be spotted here. It is believed to be a good omen to sight a Raven. Leaving Gong Yuel, the trail winds and climbs for about an hour until we reach a chorten that overlooks another side valley. A short trek from here brings us to the village of Chebisa, the winter home of the yak herders. The camp site is located on a meadow with a very beautiful water fall in the back ground. Today's trekking distance is about 10KM and should take about 4-5 hours.

Day 10: Chebisa to Shomuthang
Today the trek starts getting tougher. As we leave the village of Chebisa, we will ascend a steep hillside where we often sight herds of blue sheep wondering in the wild. In this area we can also sometimes sight the bearded vultures and the Himalayan griffons. As we trek on at an altitude of 4410M, the trail brings us to the Gobu la (4440M). From here the trail descends into a side valley through a deep forest of rhododendron. The descent is long, all the way downhill to the stream. Following this we climb over a small ridge through cedar forest, and thereafter again descend through a muddy trail to Jholithang Chu Valley, a deep forest of birch and fir. Then, after a short climb we pass through the yak herders camp and over the side of the valley down to Shakshepasa(3980M) and a helipad, marked by a big H. Here, at the bottom, the area is wet and the trek is through muddy earth and rocks. On the opposite side is a good spot where we can stop for lunch. Except for some camps of the yak herders, there are no other settlements. After lunch, the trail is quite steep and will pass through some yak herder's camp(4200M) and the pastures of Chachim. From here we descend to the camp site at Shomuthang which is at the bottom of the valley. The trekking distance for the day is about 17KM and will take us about 7-8 hours.

Day 11: Shomuthang – Rabluthang
Today we should start early, as we will be heading towards Jare la, one of the major passes on this trip. The trek starts climbing after criss-crossing the river a few times at 4360M. Here you will see lots of edelweiss and get a view of mount Khangbum (6494M), in the south-east direction. The trail climbs up the valley through desolate country side and brings us to Jare La (4747M). From here we arrive at the the four Laptsa's (cairns) and prayer flags. In the distance, towards the north-east, you will see the Shinjay La pass which is the next major pass for getting into Laya. To the north of Jare La we can view mount Gangchen Tag (Tiger mountain), Tsherim Gang (godess of music and long life) and the peak of Jumolhari. From here the trail switchbacks down to a small stream at 4490M. The trail is rough, and passes through loose slippery rocks. The vegetation comprises of rhododendron trees, birch, and fir. As we arrive at the bottom, we will stop for lunch near the bridge at an altitude of 4050M. A trek along the stream will bring us to Tshorijatsha Thang, the valley where herds of Takin can be spotted. We have to be careful in making sure that that the animals are not disturbed, as this is a special spot where the animals come to lick salt. This place has been declarred as a protected area for the preservation of the Takin. From here the trail will again start to climb until we arrive at our camp site for the night. Today's trekking distance is about 18KM and will take us about 7-8 hours.

Day 12: Rabluthang – Limthang
Today we will be passing over the highest point on the trek. The Shinjay La Pass is at 5005M. It is a tough trek will take about five hours to reach the pass. Over the hill, just above our camp site is the lone house of a Laya lady who sells Ara (local alcohol). It may be advisable to avoid the alcohol as it could compound the situation should one get altitude sickness. The trail climbs up the mountain and then switchbacks down and turns into another glacier valley. Thereafter, we will follow a stream for a while and again start climbing up onto the moraine. The climb starts becoming tougher and the altitude will slow you down. Remember not to rush until we reach the Shinjay La pass. The pass is marked by cairns and prayer flags. Bhutanese believe that it is always nice to carry a small stone, a small branch of a plant and a coin, as offerings for the mountain Gods and Goddesses. These offerings are believed to bring good luck. Travelers believe that such offerings will ensure good weather and safe trip. From here you will be able to see the Tiger mountain covering the whole of the horizon in the north. The descent is rough and passes through slippery loose rocks. One should be very careful while walking through these slippery rocks. As we make the final descent towards Limthang, we will pass by the huge terminal moraine and glacial lake at the foot of the valley. Limthang is under Laya and here you will see kids wearing typical hats native to Laya. We will camp at Limthang, beneath Gangchen Tag, (The Great Tiger Mountain). If time permits, it is worth while exploring around. Todays trekking distance is about 19KM and will take us about 7-8 hours.

Day 13: Limthang – Laya
The hike for the day is fairly easy. It is down hill most of the way, passing through thick forests of cedar and fir, along the muddy streams. As you hike down, you will reach a point from where you can see a lone house on a ridgetop to the east. Here you will find a junction of the trails, the upper one leading to the top of Laya and the other to lower Laya. The camp can be set up either at the Laya Tashi Lhakhang or below the school at an altitude of 3840M. From the most dominant view is the Tiger mountain. Today's trekking distance is about 10KM and will take us about 4-5 hours.

Day 14: Laya - Halt
Visit Laya village temple and a farm house, or hike above the camp site and explore the surrounding areas.

Day 15: Laya – Koeyna
The trail winds up and down along the river valley, avoiding natural obstacles and affording breathtaking views of the cascading river, feeder streams and waterfalls. After crossing the river over the wooden bridge we arrive at the army outpost where there is a wireless station for emergency use. Here the guide will complete all the necessary entry formalities. About half an hour from the army outpost there is a trail junction at 3340M. From here, while the route for the snowman Trek leads up hill, the route to Koeyna is downhill, following a muddy trail. After all the ups and down we arrive at the camp site, situated at 3050M.. This camp site is by far one of the the worst camp sites in Bhutan, but cannot be avoided as there is no other suitable alternatives. The whole area is marshy and very difficult terrain. Today's trekking distance is about 19KM and will take us about 6-7 hours.

Day 16: Koeyna – Gasa hot spring
After three hours of trekking through muddy and thick forests we will arrive at the Bale la pass (3900M). From here it is mostly down hill until we arrive at the Gasa Dzong. If group members are interested in making a side trip to the Dzong, arrangements can be made by your guide, but remember that a Dzong is an administrative center and one has to be in formal dress (shorts and tee-shirts are not permitted). From the Gasa Dzong the trek to the hot spring is about one and half hours. Bhutanese have deep faith in the healing powers of the hot spring. After the long trek, the hot spring is not only soothing to the aching body and tired mind but also a refreshing change. The camp site is located at an altitude of 2500M. Today's trekking distance is about 14KM and will take us about 6-7 hours.

Day 17: Gasa Hot spring halt
Gasa Tsha chu (Tsha chu, means hot spring). A full day of relaxation at the hot spring.

Day 18: Gasa hot spring - Gyeon Damji - Tashithang- Punakha
After the climb from the Gasa hot spring, the trail winds through hillsides, terraced rice fields and villages surrounded by oak and pine forests. Gasa Dzong will be visible behind you, as you descend to Damji. Our car will pick us up at the Stupa in Damji and we will drive down through Damji village and Tashithang to Punakha. On this drive, We will also be able to view the beautiful Khamsumyeling temple built by the Queen Mother for world peace and the Punakha Dzong. We will visit these cultural sites the following day. Overnight in Punakha. Cocktail Party will be hosted by Sky Travels.

Day 19: Explore Punakha Today we will visit the Punakha Dzong and Khamsumyelung Temple. The hike to Khamsumyelung will take about 45 minutes. Here you will see some of the finest work of Bhutanese art.

The Punakha Dzong, built in 1637, was once the old capital of Bhutan and is today the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body. The Dzong occupies an important place in the history of monarchy in Bhutan, as the first King of Bhutan, Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned here in 1907. The Dzong also houses Bhutan's most sacred relic, the Ranjung Kharsapani (the self created image of Avolokitesvara). The inner-most sanctum of the temple houses the Marchen Lhakhang, containing the embalmed body of the Shabdrung, the first secular leader of Bhutan. Today the Dzong also serves as the headquarter to the District Administration. If time permits, we will also visit the Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of the Devine Mad Monk). Overnight at Punakha.

Day 20: Punakha– Thimphu
Drive to Wangdue Phodrang dzong which was built in 1638 and then continue to Thimphu, over the Docho La Pass (3050M). Two hours drive will bring us to Docho la pass. Here we will get a spectacular view of the eastern Himalayas. Many of these mountains are those which we viewed at close quarters during our trek. The pass is marked by 108 stupas built for world peace by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. On a clear day, one can truly enjoy Bhutan's pristine natural environment from the Docho La pass. The place offers fantastic photo opportunities. A drive of one hour from here will bring us to Thimphu the capital city of Bhutan, a city without traffic lights. The traffic is controled by policemen. After check-in and lunch we will visit the textile museum, Tashichhodzong and handicrafts emporium. Overnight at Thimphu.

Day 21: Thimphu to Paro
After breakfast we will visit the Memorial Stupa in Thimphu, a beautiful landmark in the valley. The stupa was built in memory of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Then continue our drive to one of the oldest temple Changangkha, built in the 12th century, by the son of the founder of the Drukpa Kagyud School. After this we will drive to the Thimphu view point and continue to the Nunnery where you will be able to see dedicated Buddhist women practitioners. In the evening, depending on the interest of the group, we will either visit the market place or attend a cultural programme. Overnight at Thimphu.

Day 22: Departure
Our representative will help you with the departure formalities at the airport and bid you farewell with Tashi Khadhar.

Tashi Delek and Bon Voyage.

Important Note:
Season: : Mid April-June & September–October.
Group condition : Minimum of three - four people but two persons are also acceptable on payment of surcharges.
Climate: Days are normally warm but nights can be cold with temperatures falling below freezing level. Normally we have monsoon showers (heaviest in July & August) and sometimes even in spring and autumn.
What to bring: Strong, comfortable trekking boots, sun-glasses, lots of spare vests and socks/stockings, headgear and a raincoat. Warm clothing will be required for the evenings and a down jacket is a must. For those going to Jumolhari and Laya, a good quality sleeping bag that will keep you warm below zero degree is a must. It is advisable that the sleeping bag quality is from medium to heavy duty. (Note: personal baggage for trekking is limited to 25 kg.)
Recommendation:This trek is fairly difficult and demands top physical fitness. A physical fitness checkup is a must. For those without previous trekking experience, 1-2 month preparation is advised.