This is a short trek, which leads from Paro to Thimphu, or vice-versa, crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. Although there are very few houses to see, there are wonderful lakes teeming with fish at 4,000m (13,000 feet) and spectacular rhododendron forest that bloom in the month of May. In winter and in clear weather, there is a magnificent view over the high Himalayas. A climb through thick alpine forest and rhododendron to a saddle at 3,590m, following in north to yak herder camps.
You pass through Jimilang Tsho Lake (Sand Ox Lake) named for a bull that emerged from the lake and joined the cattle of a family that uses the area as a summer grazing ground. The lake is also known for its giant trout. Depending on the weather, good views of the Mt. Jichu Drake 6,989m can be seen, the peak that represents the protective deity of Paro to the west. The route passes Tsalu Ney, a 14th century Lhakhang (temple) on the site of a cave. You also pass through another lake, Simkota which is also a fishing spot. The route passes through a pilgrimage site, Phajoding Monastery and Thujidrag Goemba (monastery), a meditation center that hangs on the side of a precipitous rock face.
Itinerary
Day 01: Dhopushare to Jili Dzong 3,450m
Day 02: Jili Dzong to Jangchu Lakha 3,780m
Day 03: Jangchu Lakha to Jimmelang Tsho 3,880m
Day 04: Jimilang Tsho to Simkota Tsho 4,040m
Day 05: Simikota Tsho to Phajoding 3,870m
Day 06: Phajoding to Thimphu 2,320m