The Phajoding & Dungtso Lake Trek

1. Day 1 Paro – Thimphu ▾

   • 55 km Driving distance
   • 1 hr 30 min Driving time
   • 2,350 m Altitude of Thimphu

   The panoramic Himalayan views shall be mesmerizing as you fly to Bhutan. The Landing is another experience. On completion of immigration formalities, your guide from Ideal Travel Creations shall welcome you with a “Tashi Khadar” on your exit from the Airport gate.

   Drive to Thimphu. Discover the barren mountains, Tamchog Lhakhang, the Paro River (Pa Chhu) joining the Thimphu River (Wangchhu) at Chhuzomsa and the three stupas as you drive on the well-maintained roads between Paro and Thimphu. After lunch, if the energy levels allow, stroll around Clock Tower Square, Craft Bazaar and the Kaja Throm”, the new local market built as per the command of the His Majesty.

   In the evening visit impressive Tashichhodzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion) which houses the Throne Room and the Offices of His Majesty the King as well as the Je Khenpo, seniormost religious authority of Bhutan. Dinner and overnight in Thimphu

2. Day 2 Thimphu Sightseeing ▾

   • 2,350 m Altitude of Thimphu

   After a breakfast start your day with a hike to Cheri Monastery. Established in the year 1620, the monastery was initially known as Chagri Dorjeden Monastery. After driving for about 20 minutes, we have to steep hike about approx 1 – 1.5 hrs to reach the monastery.

   The monastery is now a major teaching and retreat center of the Drukpa Kagyu order. On your way back enjoy sometime by the Dodena River and drive back to Thimphu. After lunch, join the Local residents of Thimphu for circumambulations at the National Memorial Chorten, built in the honor of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also known as “The Father of Modern Bhutan”.

   Drive towards Kuenselphodrang. On the way visit Hindu Temple formally known as Devi Panchayan Mandir which was consecrated on 1st October 2019. His Majesty, The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck offered worship and granted “Tika” to the Hindu Communities on the Dussehra on 1019 in this temple.

   Further in Kuenselphodrang, witness the 52-meter Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu. Visit the temple inside the statue and discover the 125,000 smaller Buddhas. The place offers a breath-taking view of the Thimphu Valley. If you love Hiking You can opt for a gentle hike to Changangkha Lhakhang from here.

   It is a 7 km Hike through the pine forest. This trail was initially intended to be a cycling trail but is very good for hike as well. It is a part of the 60 km cycling trail around Thimphu valley which was initiated in 2016 to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan.

   Finally visit the Simply Bhutan, a living museum and a photo studio aimed at preservation and promotion of culture involving Bhutanese youth as the core group. A private interaction session with a Bhutanese Host in the evening. Dinner with your Bhutanese Host as you converse in regards to this new place and its cultures.

3. Day 3 Thimphu – Phajoding Monastery (Trek Starts) ▾

   • 5.5 km Driving distance
   • 4 hr Driving time
   • 3,600 m Altitude of Campsite

   After breakfast in the morning. Visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the national animal of Bhutan. Then visit the Changangkha Monastery built on a hill overlooking the Thimphu valley. Many parents of Thimphu take their new born babies to this monastery to be blessed by a high lama.

   Spend some time here enjoying the breathtaking view, the soothing Himalayan breeze and ample photo opportunities. Then start your trek towards Phajoding. The Phajoding Monastery Hike takes you along a well-trodden path frequented by locals, horse teams, and a few tourists, leading to the monastery.

   In 2010, the once-prosperous, ornate monastery was declared an “endangered monument.” This hike also marks the start or end point of the Druk Path (highly recommended!), and it is common to encounter horse teams along the way. You may need to step off the path to let them pass, as they won’t hesitate to push you aside.

   At the top, enjoy the view, sit on the tree swing, or watch the monks play soccer in their spare time between study. If it’s winter, there is a chance of snow, so pack accordingly. The monastic community is very welcoming to guests, so be prepared for a chat and to share food with them.

4. Day 4 Explore the High-Altitude Lakes above Phajoding ▾

   • 3,600 m Altitude of Campsite

   After breakfast, continue your trek upwards until you encounter a wild Rhododendron Garden, which beautifully showcases the untamed allure of the area. The mountains here are home to more than nine varieties of Rhododendrons, adding an air of mystique to the landscape.

   Another notable attraction along the way to or from Phajoding Monastery is the Sky Burial Hill, adorned with prayer flags. This hill serves as a burial site for newborns, as Buddhist teachings forbid the cremation of infants. The fog-covered hill, with its somber atmosphere, evokes the image of a grieving mother, fostering a sense of reverence and solemnity.

   Hikers along the renowned Druk Path, which spans from Paro to Sangaygang, are often seen carrying their belongings on horseback, while tourists continue their journey on foot. After a few hours of hiking, you will reach Tshep Tsho, the first of several stunning lakes.

   Nestled in the highlands, these lakes are known for their unique shapes, though they are not easily accessible. Sadly, some of these lakes have dried up over time and are now called “run-away lakes.” Locals believe that when a lake’s deity or mermaid (Tsho-men) departs, the lake will disappear.

   The emptiness left behind evokes a sense of melancholy beauty. As you approach the lakes, you will pass several smaller lakes and rivers before reaching the main Dung-Tsho Lake. Lucky visitors may even spot Dungkar (Sunkosh) floating in the water.

   However, the lake can be concealed by heavy rain, mist, or, as the locals believe, the impurities in the heart of a guest. Out of respect, visitors to the sacred lakes are urged to maintain absolute silence to avoid disturbing the peaceful aura.

   Many travelers kneel in reverence when visiting these remote lakes. Return to Phajoding Monastery, observe the monastic life, and engage with the monks. Enjoy dinner and spend the night at the camp.

5. Day 5 Phajoding – Thimphu (End of Trek) ▾

   In the morning, if the monastery allows, you may choose to join the monks for a morning prayer. After breakfast, walk back to Thimphu. Drive to hotel and relax for some time. After lunch, visit the Zorig Chusom (The National Institute for 13 Traditional Arts and Crafts of Bhutan) and the Royal Textile Academy.

   The day ends witnessing an Archery Match at the Changlimithang stadium. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

6. Day 6 Thimphu – Gangtey ▾

   • 140 km Driving distance
   • 4 hr Driving time
   • 2,900 m Altitude of Phobjikha

   Visit the Simtokha Dzong on the way. This is one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan. Drive to the Dochula Pass (3150 m), the highest point between Thimphu and Punakha valleys. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the higher Himalayas, explore the 108 Druk Wangyel Chhortens and then visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang.

   Descend to the subtropical lush and beautiful valley of Punakha. The terraced rice fields, the meandering river and the beautiful villages shall welcome you as you reach Punakha. Explore the Lobesa Village for a while. Interact with the local vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables and other local produce.

   Lunch at the Lobesa. Visit the Wangduephodrang Dzong overlooking the convergence of the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu Rivers. The dzong was initially built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638. Drive along the slopes of bare hills following the river (Drang Chhu) until you reach Chuzomsa, (the confluence of the Dang Chhu and the Pe Chhu).

   After crossing the bridge the road goes uphill through pine forests often encountering small villages, where women spinning yarns on their porches, older men idling their time and children frolicking around could be the most common sights. Explore the Lawala Pass.

   A few Photographs are must here. Drive down along the pine forest till you reach Gangtey/ Phobjikha, one of the most beautiful Glacial Valleys in the Himalayas. Spend your evening enjoying the breathtaking views and the soothing Himalayan breeze.

   Dinner and overnight in Hotel

7. Day 7 Explore Gangtey Valley ▾

   • 2,900 m Altitude of Phobjikha

   Start your day with a breakfast with views. Visit the Gangtey Goemba overlooking the large green expanse of the Phobjikha Valley. Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613, and Tenzin Legpai Dhendup, the second re-incarnation, built the temple.

   Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail. The trail starts at the 17th century Gangtey Monastery. The two-hour gentle trek lets you get immersed in the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Visit the Khewang Lhakhang and interact with the young monks. Explore the nearby villages for a while.

   Picnic Lunch in the Phobjikha Valley. After lunch drive towards the villages of Kilkhorthang and Remeachin. Visit the Nelung Dreachagling Nunnery and the villages around. Witness farmers working in the field and enjoy taking photographs in this beautiful Glacial valley.

   On the way back visit the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, a place for recreation with crane watching equipment (binoculars, spotting scopes) and reference books. Dinner and overnight in Hotel.

8. Day 8 Punakha – Paro ▾

   • 135 km Driving distance
   • 4 hr Driving time
   • 2,280 m Altitude of Paro

   After a nice breakfast, drive to Paro. On the way explore the Royal Botanical Park for a while. Picnic Lunch on the banks of Paro River near Shaba Village. After a short stoppage at Airport Viewpoint, visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Finally Visit the Paro National Museum, which displays a collection of fascinating Bhutanese relics.

   Explore the Paro Town. Visit Coffee shops, handicraft shops and interact with the locals. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

9. Day 9 Paro ▾

   • 2,280 m Altitude of Paro

   Your day starts with an early morning Hike to Taktshang Monastery, one of the most wonderful and significant monasteries in Bhutan. Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, the hike shall be accompanied with stories of Guru Rinpoche, who arrived on the spot where the monastery is located on the back of a flying tigress somewhere in 8th century.

   Reaching the top shall enlighten you on why the Monastery is an iconic pilgrimage for visitors to the Kingdom of Bhutan. Visit Kyichhu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple nearby with two magical orange trees that bear fruit throughout the year. Drive to a local farmhouse for lunch with a Bhutanese family.

   Try the traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, National Dress and Archery here. You shall also have an opportunity to witness the daily life in a village in Bhutan. Drive back to the Hotel. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

10. Day 10 Departure ▾

    This 10-day Bhutan travel itinerary with the Phajoding-Dungtsho Lake trek comes to an end with a drive to Paro airport and farewell.

What is and isn't Included?

Getting there & when to go

Trip facts

Travel cost details