Dodena Trek -11 Days

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you'll be welcomed by the serene beauty of Bhutan. After settling in, take some time to explore Paro's rich cultural heritage. Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress that offers insight into Bhutanese architecture and Buddhism. Explore the National Museum, which houses artifacts that tell the story of Bhutan’s history and culture. The rest of the day can be spent preparing for the trek, with your guide briefing you on the journey ahead. Rest well to acclimate to the altitude.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro.

After an early breakfast, drive for about 30 minutes to Taktshang Basecamp, the starting point for the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike. The trail winds through dense pine forests adorned with colorful prayer flags, leading to a scenic cafeteria viewpoint after 1.5 to 2 hours, offering breathtaking views of the monastery perched on a cliff at 3,120m (10,236 ft). Continuing the ascent for another hour, you’ll navigate steep stone steps and a wooden bridge over a waterfall before reaching the sacred monastery, where you can explore its ancient temples and learn about its rich history.

After descending,drive to Drugyel Dzong, a historic fortress built in 1649 to defend Bhutan from Tibetan invasions, now offering stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari (7,314m). Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, housing an ancient statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. After a day of adventure and cultural exploration, return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the next day’s journey.

After breakfast, drive from Paro till Shana. Upon reaching Shana, start your trek. The trail ascends through the Paa Chu river valley and beautiful blue pine and rhododendron forests. Enroute, stop for lunch and then continue your trek till the campsite where you can able to see Mt. Jomolhari from the top of the valley. Dinner and overnight stay at Campsite (Soi Thangthangka).

The trail passes through a small border army check post where the valley begins to widen and we leave the forest behind. We will enjoy the views of snow-capped peaks, high mountain ridges, yaks and yak herders throughout the trail until we reach to Jangothang campsite. Dinner and night halt at Jangothang campsite.

Today on your halt day it is possible to walk to Tshophu for acclimatization where you will see two lakes and with a super view of Jomolhari, and Jichu Drakey or hike in many directions towards month Jomolhari and its subsidiary to west, Jichu Drakey to the north and climbed submits and ridges following your own trail to the east because of no proper trail on this hike.

Restart your trek with a gradual climb across the bridge over the Paa Chu tributary, which originates from Jichu Drake. As you ascend towards the pass, enjoy breathtaking views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherim Gang. Stop for lunch en route before continuing on a trail that ascends alongside a small stream, offering a shorter and more scenic route to the campsite. Settle in for the night at the campsite, surrounded by Bhutan’s pristine mountain landscapes.

You need to get up early to trek through the Yale-La Pass, whIch stands 4920 meters above the sea level. You will begin to descend after trekking through the pass. Most people traveling between Lingzhi and Thimphu uses this pass, so the trail is well marked. From the pass we descend to Shodu campsite following the small stream of Wangchu river.

The trail follows the Wangchu River and through the rhododendrons ,hemlock forest and waterfall crossing several bridges, before climbing to the ruins of Barshong Dzong. Then you can camp just below ruin fortress or walk for another 1.5 hours to Domshisa camp to shorten your walk next day.

We continue the trail following the Wangchu river through dense hemlock and rhododendron forest via Dolam Kencho. Before emerging into pastureland we climb to a mountain meadow at 3428 meters and over a small pass to Dodena road point, north of Thimphu. A vehicle will be waiting to collect us with some refreshment arrange by our company and drive for 30 minutes to capital city of Bhutan,Thimphu. Check in to hotel have a relaxing time and go for a leisurely walk around the town. Dinner and over night stay at Hotel.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Tashi Chhoe Dzong, an impressive fortress that houses the King’s office and serves as a religious and administrative centre—Marvel at its stunning Bhutanese architecture and peaceful surroundings. Next, head to the Folk Heritage Museum, where you can step back in time and experience the traditional Bhutanese way of life through its fascinating exhibits. Continue your journey to the Takin Preserve Centre, home to Bhutan’s national animal. In the evening, stroll around the Craft Bazaar where you can shop for exquisite Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, making for a perfect end to your exploration of Thimphu.

Start your day with a peaceful breakfast in Thimphu before beginning your drive to Paro. The journey offers beautiful views of Bhutan's valleys, mountains, and rivers. As you leave Thimphu, enjoy the tranquil landscapes, passing by traditional villages and terraced fields. Upon arrival in Paro, you will be dropped off at your preferred destination, whether it's your hotel or the airport for your next journey.