Trekking Tours · 5 days
5-Day Himalayan Alpine Trek: Paro to Thimphu
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day Himalayan adventure from Paro to Thimphu, trekking through pristine alpine forests, dramatic mountain ridges, remote yak-herder meadows, and crystal-clear high-altitude lakes.
- Duration
- 5 days · 4 nights
- Region
- Northern Bhutan, Western Bhutan
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Price
- Price on request
Overview
About this journey
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day Himalayan adventure from Paro to Thimphu, trekking through pristine alpine forests, dramatic mountain ridges, remote yak-herder meadows, and crystal-clear high-altitude lakes. Reaching a maximum elevation of 4,210 meters, the journey combines breathtaking landscapes with the serenity of Bhutan’s wilderness and sacred mountain heritage.
With premium camping comfort, expert guides, private camp crew, freshly prepared meals, and carefully managed high-altitude support, this trek offers an exceptional way to experience Bhutan’s mountains in comfort and style. The journey concludes with a scenic descent to Phajoding Monastery and onward to Thimphu.
Highlights
- Trek through pristine blue pine, oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows and rugged mountain landscapes.
- Explore the atmospheric Jele Dzong, a historic fortress located high above the Paro Valley.
- Experience the peaceful beauty of Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
- Reach elevations of up to 4,210 metres at Phume La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
- Enjoy spectacular views of Bhutan's Himalayan landscapes, valleys and high mountain ridges along the route.
Private journey
Price on request
Every journey is planned privately around your dates, hotels and pace, so we quote each trip individually. Send us your travel month and group size and we will reply with a tailored itinerary and price.
Or message us on WhatsApp +975 77 34 88 13
Day by day
Itinerary
Your guide and driver are with you throughout. Every day can be adjusted to your interests and pace.
Day 01 · Paro – Ta Dzong – Jele Dzong
Your adventure begins with a morning transfer from your hotel in Paro to Ta Dzong, the starting point of the trek. Trek uphill through beautiful blue pine, oak and rhododendron forests. Enjoy a freshly prepared hot lunch along the trail before continuing toward Jele Dzong. Upon arrival, settle into your comfortable mountain camp, explore the historic dzong and enjoy a warm dinner.
Trek: 8 km | 4–5 hours | Camp Altitude: 3,480 m
Day 02 · Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha
After breakfast, continue your trek along scenic mountain ridges and winding trails surrounded by alpine forests and open meadows. The route offers beautiful views of the Paro Valley and the surrounding wilderness. Stop for a hot picnic lunch before continuing through forested areas and high-altitude pastures to Jangchulakha. Relax at camp and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Trek: 10 km | 4–5 hours | Camp Altitude: 3,650 m
Day 03 · Jangchulakha – Jimilang Tsho
Depart after breakfast and gradually climb into the higher alpine landscape. Trek across panoramic mountain ridges and rocky trails before descending toward the spectacular Jimilang Tsho. Arrive at the lakeshore and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch before spending a relaxing afternoon by the lake. As evening falls, enjoy a hearty dinner surrounded by the tranquil Himalayan landscape.
Trek: 11 km | Approx. 4 hours | Camp Altitude: 3,870 m
Day 04 · Jimilang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the high alpine wilderness. Ascend gradually from Jimilang Tsho across rugged mountain trails, rocky ridges and open high-altitude landscapes. Enjoy lunch with spectacular mountain views before continuing toward Simkotra Tsho. Arrive at your highest overnight campsite and relax with hot tea while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Trek: 11 km | 4–5 hours | Camp Altitude: 4,110 m
Day 05 · Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding – Thimphu
After an early breakfast, begin the final and longest day of the trek. Make a short ascent to Phume La Pass at approximately 4,210 m, the highest point of the journey. Continue downhill toward Phajoding Monastery, enjoying panoramic views over the Thimphu Valley. After a picnic lunch in the pine forest, continue the descent to the Motithang trailhead in Thimphu. Your private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel, marking the end of your Himalayan trekking adventure.
Trek: 14 km | 6–7 hours | Highest Point: 4,210 m
What the price covers
Included and not included
Included
- Private transportation for transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
- Professional trekking and camp crew
- Pack horses for transportation of main luggage
- 4 nights of premium mountain camping
- High-altitude dual-layer sleeping tents
- Raised camping cots and insulated sleeping mattresses
- Sub-zero sleeping bags
- Heated dining tent and camping furniture
- Private camp chef
- All meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Tea, coffee and other hot beverages during the trek
- Hot towel service and selected camp refreshments
- Trekking and camping equipment as provided by the operator
- Wilderness first-aid kit
- Pulse oximeter for altitude monitoring
- Emergency satellite communication support
- Visit to Jele Dzong and Phajoding Monastery as mentioned in the itinerary
- Assistance from the trekking team throughout the journey
Not included
- International and domestic airfare
- Bhutan visa and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), unless specifically mentioned in the package
- Travel and trekking insurance
- Personal medical and evacuation expenses
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls and other purchases
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, horsemen and camp staff
- Additional accommodation or meals outside the scheduled itinerary
- Emergency evacuation or rescue costs, where applicable
- Any services or activities not specifically mentioned under Inclusions
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Tailor-made, at no extra cost
Tailor your Bhutan journey
We can shape your Bhutan experience around your preferences, interests, travel style and schedule at no additional cost. Want more time for culture, nature, adventure or wellness, or simply a slower pace? Tell us, and we will plan the journey around you.