Soi Yaksa Trek

Taktsang Monastery: The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. From the road, the hike toward Taktsang follows an uphill route and returning back takes approximately 5-6 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.

Later we welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for dinner with them and experience their hospitality. A visit gives you an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of Bhutan. And try the Hot Stone Bath. A Bhutanese hot stone bath is the perfect way to relax and wind down after a long day of sightseeing and is also believed to have numerous health benefits.

We start from hotel at 8:00 am to Shana or Shanazam (2,800 Mtrs) is the last road point on Jomolhari trek.

The hike from Shana to Thangthangkha is basically along the riverbank and there isn’t much of a climb which will be a good warm up for the trekkers.

After couple of hours you will pass through Shinkharab (3,059 Mtrs) where you will see the only shop. Right after that we will come across a Junction to Jomolhari and Nubri. It is to the right where we have to continue the hike towards Jomolhari. Then comes Tshema Marp (Red forest) after crossing the metal bridge .The area is filled with different trees with varieties of colored leaves, that’s why it has the name Tshema Marp (Red forest).

After Four hours of hike we stopped for lunch at a location above Tshema Marp (3,300 Mtrs). It was another another 3-4 hours hike to the only Metal Suspension bridge. Right after crossing the Suspension bridge you will arrive at the Junction where it leads to Yaktsha if you take right and cross the wooden bridge and if you continue left without crossing the wooden bridge it will take only 20-30 minutes to Thangthankha camp site.

20KM | 8-9 HOURS | 900M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 3750M

If you are an early bird ,you can vividly catch the Sunrise touching on Mt. Jomolhari (7,326 Mtrs) from Thangthangkha camp site.

We will start our day two hike as early as 8:00 am in the morning and headed towards Jangothang which would take another three- four good hours. The climb is a gentle one towards Jangothang and again the route is along the same river which flows all the way from Jangothang. After 1 – 2 hours we come across the first settlement and also few scattered household along the route till we Soe Gewog.

Jangothang camp site (4,100 Mtrs) is about 20-25 minutes walk from Soe settlement.

After Lunch at campsite, we will and started hiking towards Tshophu to see the Twin Lakes. The hike from Jangothang to Tshophu is all uphill and takes up 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. On the way to Tshophu we saw herd of Blue Sheeps on the left side of the Tshophu hill.

17KM | 4-5 HOURS | 290M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 4040M

The rest day in Jangothang provides plenty of possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow-capped mountains such as Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area. hike to the north of your camp on a open and endless slope till you see the view of Mt Jichu Drakye (6989m). You are likely to spot rare blue sheep, Himalayan rhubarb, griffon vultures, golden eagles and the remarkable blue poppy. If you do not wish to hike but simply wish to just relax in camp, whichever option you choose, its certainly going to be a memorable day.

CAMP ALT 4040M

The trail heads north to the valley’s final settlement before descending to the Paro Chhu (River), which you’ll cross via a wooden bridge. From there, ascend to the turquoise Tshophu Lake (4380 meters), home to ruddy shelducks. Continuing your journey, you’ll climb a slope to a crest, where you’ll encounter a second lake. Next, descend into a secluded valley and make a steep climb to Bonte La at 4890 meters—the trek’s highest point—offering spectacular views of Basingthang (5500m) and Chatarake (5570m). After crossing the pass, the trail winds down, crisscrossing yak paths, until you reach the Dhumzo Chhu. Follow the river downstream, passing a few houses, before arriving at your campsite at 3800 meters.

16KM | 6-7 HOURS | 810M ASCENT | 1090M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3800M

The trail ascends over 100 meters to a ridge before descending to another stream. After crossing the stream, it climbs up the hillside, dips into a small side valley, and then emerges onto a ridge. At this point, the route turns south, climbing past a few huts to reach Takhung La (4520 m). A brief descent follows, leading to the broad, grassy expanse of Thombu Shong (4180m), where you’ll find a handful of yak herders’ huts.

11KM | 4-5 HOURS | 720M ASCENT | 340M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 4180M

Ascend out of the valley, passing through rhododendron forests, until you reach Thombu La at 4380 meters. On clear days, the pass offers breathtaking views of Mount Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, Teri Kang, and even Kanchenjunga—a rewarding sight and a soothing treat for weary minds. From there, the trail gradually descends to around 4000 meters, winding down the ridge with a series of switchbacks until you finally arrive at the helipad in Gunitsawa (2730m). Your vehicle will be waiting here to take you to Thimphu, where you can celebrate your return to civilization with a refreshing shower at the hotel. Spend the night at a hotel in Thimphu.

13KM | 4-5 HOURS | 200M ASCENT | 1650M DESCENT 

After breakfast, visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, also known as the “Buddha Point,” is a massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Royal Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin – Bhutan’s national animal. Painting School: The National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Arts and Crafts School, is an educational institution in Bhutan dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts. National Memorial Chorten: Probably one of the most popular Thimphu points of interest. 

The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is reputedly the best place that manufactures traditional paper. You can buy this unique paper here which will make for interesting souvenir gifts.
Changlimithang Archery Ground to see local folks playing their tradition game archery.
The Centenary Farmers Market (Now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences. Walk through Bhutan’s capital city exploring Clock Tower Square, a prominent landmark adorned with intricate Bhutanese motifs and stroll towards Thimphu’s iconic traffic junction, famously known as the main traffic circle as it has no traffic lights. Instead, you’ll witness a white-gloved traffic officer gracefully directing vehicles in a choreographed style that has become a tourist attraction in its own right.
Lastly Tashichhodzong visit. This magnificent structure stands proudly on the banks of the Wang Chhu River and serves as both a religious and administrative hub of Bhutan. Now it houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the King and central monk body.

Optional – Night Tour: Sangaygang BBS Tower Viewpoint, offering breathtaking nighttime views of Thimphu. The city lights twinkle like stars, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the dark mountainous backdrop. The Tashichho Dzong Viewpoint offers a spectacular night view of this iconic fortress, making it a must-visit spot for those who want to experience the beauty of Thimphu.

After breakfast, drive to Punakha (2hrs). On the way, stop at Dochula Pass.
Dochula Pass is a mountain pass located in the Kingdom of Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas. It sits at an elevation of around 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level. The pass is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the majestic peaks of the snow-capped Himalayas. Once here, you will witness 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.
After that drive to Punakha (45 minutes to 1 hour).
In Punakha, walk across farmhouses to reach Chimi Lhakhang, A 15th-century fertility temple, blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, who is known as the Divine Madman for his eccentric behaviors. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and many childless couples go to his temple for blessing. 

Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit the longest suspension bridge across the dzong, spanning 160m over the Phochu River, and connects the Punakha Dzong (fortress) with the nearby villages and agricultural lands.
Then drive to Paro. In Paro, visit Chencho Weaving Center in Paro Town is locally-run weaving center showcases the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving, offering visitors a chance to witness skilled artisans at work and stroll around Paro down town for shopping or cup of coffee.
Namgay Artisanal Brewery: Did you know Bhutan has some of the most reputed and highly enjoyed brews? Well, if you are a beer lover and want to taste some of the finest brews, you must visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley.

Overnight in Paro

Drive to Paro International Airport (1 hour) from Thimphu and bid you farewell