This is a five-day trek, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. Although the route is sparsely inhabited, there are beautiful lakes here teeming with fish. The area is famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests, which bloom in May. In the clear weather of late autumn and winter, there are great views of the Himalayas.

Day 1: Arrive at Paro

On arrival at the airport, our representative will receive you and transfer you to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit Ta Dzong, Bhutan's national museum, which has a collection of ancient Bhutanese art,  artifacts, weapons, and stamps. Rinpung Dzong meaning "fortress of the heap of jewels." It was built in the 17th century, which now houses the monastic school and the office of the civil administration. Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Paro

To check your resistance, we begin with a small hike to Taktsang temple. The walk uphill will be no more than two hours. The trail is broad. At the viewpoint, there is a cafeteria. Have a cup of tea or some juice here and then take a walk a little higher to get a closer view of Taktsang. Then walk back for lunch to Paro town.

In the afternoon, visit Drukgyel Dzong. This ruined fort was built to defend this valley from Tibetan invasions. Mount Jhomolhari, the sacred summit reaches skyward beyond the dzong. Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan, dating from the introduction of Buddhism.

Day 3: Paro - Jele Dzong, (6 to 7 km, altitude 2200 m)

Today is a short, trekking day. The trek trail is rather gradual up till the camp. If the weather is clear, the Paro valley can be seen with snow-capped mountains behind. Overnight stay here.

Day 4: Jele Dzong - Jangchulakha (10 km, altitude 2895 m)

Begin with an hour and a half climb and then ascend gradually up. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. You may see yak herders around your campsite.

Day 5: Jangchulakha - Jimilangtsho (11 km, altitude 3505 m)

The trail follows the ridge, and on a clear day, the views of the mountains and valley can be seen. The camp is close to the lakes of Jimilangtso. These lakes are famous for their giant-sized trout. Also, there are great views of Mt. Jichu Drake (6,989 m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Overnight stay at the camp.

 Day 6: Jimilangtso - Simkota (11 km, altitude 3505 m)

The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and bypasses the lake of Janetso. You may come across some yak herder's camp and get an idea of how these people live. The camp is close to Simkota lake, and if you are lucky, you can catch some lake trout for dinner. Overnight camp.

Day 7: Simkota - Phajoding (10 km, altitude 2895 m)

Today, you begin with a gradual climb and if the weather permits, you will enjoy the majestic view of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan, and also the other peaks. The trail slowly descends until you reach the Phajoding Cafeteria. Overnight stay in cafeteria or camp.

Day 8: Phajoding - Thimphu (7 to 8 km, altitude 2590 m)

The trek to Thimphu is down through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Taking a leisurely pace, you reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.

Day 9: Excursion to Punakha/Wangdiphodrang

After breakfast, full-day excursion to Punakha and Wangdi valleys. The drive from Thimphu crosses 3050 m Dohula pass that heralds the most enchanting views of Bhutan. In Punakha, visit the dzong situated at the junction of Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this dzong has played an important role in Bhutan's history. Then drive to Wangdiphodrang to visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong, the 17th-century monument followed by a visit to the local market. Evening drive back to Thimphu. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.

Day 10: Thimphu – Paro

Memorial Chorten was built in the memory of the late third King of Bhutan. Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu's most impressive building, is situated at the banks of Wang Chu. It now houses the National Assembly, King's Throne room, and also the summer residence of the chief of the monk body. Visit the Painting School, where centuries-old art of Bhutanese paintings is taught. National Library is another interesting place to visit, which has a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts, manuscripts. Traditional Medicine Institute where centuries-old healing arts are still practised, is a must-see. Handicrafts Emporium showcases exotic weaves in silk, wool, cotton, silver jewellery, carpets, thangka paintings, bamboo ware and other traditional crafts of the kingdom are available. Evening drive to Paro. Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

Day 11: Paro departure

Early breakfast in the hotel and drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.