This 2-night trek starts with a two-hour drive from Thimphu or Paro to Jemina Valley, known for its marble and limestone. Despite some mining, it will eventually become an industrial estate. The trek begins at Tshaluna Temple and follows the Jemi-rongchhu stream through mixed forests, leading to a scenic meadow for lunch.

After crossing several wooden bridges, the trail continues through thicket forests and a basin before a steep climb to the campsite by Jemilangtso Lake, the largest of three lakes on the trek. Local legend claims this lake is home to a mystical bull that mates with cows, resulting in healthy offspring.

Trek grade:

• Moderate to hard
• Mileage approximately 16 km
• Altitude at Jemina -3,000 metres approximately
• Altitude at Jemilangtso Lake- 3,800 metres
• 7/8 hours of trek for normal trekkers’
• 5 hours if you are a fast trekker
• Ascent almost 1,800 metres

Early morning tea by the lake in the Himalayas offers a magical experience with mist rising and peaks reflecting in the tranquil water.

The trail starts along the lake’s western edge and ascends sharply for 30 minutes before leveling out with stunning valley views. After an hour, reach Janetso Lake, then continue ascending for two hours to Simkota Lake. The trek, filled with alpine flora and potential wildlife sightings, takes about five hours for most trekkers. After lunch, a two-to-three-hour walk leads to Labana Pass (4,200m), with breathtaking views of Gangkar Puensum and other peaks. The gentle descent to the 3800m campsite reveals one of Bhutan’s most picturesque spots, where hot tea awaits.

Trek grade:

• Moderate
• Mileage approximately 14 km
• Altitude at Jemilangtso Lake -3,800 metres approximately
• Altitude at Labana- 3,800 metres approximately
• Highest point is Labana Pass – 4,200 metres
• 7/8 hours of trek for normal trekkers’
• 4/5 hours if you are a fast trekker
• Ascent almost 400 metres

Begin the day by watching a stunning sunrise from your tent, facing east to see the horizon’s colors change. After breakfast, trek to Dupchhu-la Pass (4,200m), ascending 400 meters through rhododendron bushes and unique rock formations. Energetic hikers can explore a nearby peak dedicated to sky burials, while others enjoy the scenic trail. From the pass, descend 450 meters to Phajoding Monastery (3,750m) for lunch at a monk’s shelter. Phajoding Monastery, founded in the 13th century and expanded in the 18th century, features monk quarters, meditation centers, and a guesthouse. After lunch, visit the monastery and then descend to Thimphu on a broad trail through junipers, spruces, and rhododendrons, using walking sticks to ease the descent. Finally, transfer to Paro.

Trek grade:

• Moderate
• Mileage approximately 12 km
• Altitude at Labana -3,800 metres approximately
• Altitude at Thimphu- 2,300 metres approximately
• Highest point is Dupchhu-la Pass – 4,200 metres
• 5/6 hours of trek for normal trekkers’
• 3/4 hours if you are a fast trekker
• Ascent almost 1,900 metres