Trip Summary
- Departure: Paro
- Trip Name: Bhutan Juniper Trek
- Trek Start: Chuzomtoe, Thimphu
- Trek End: Chele La Pass, Paro
- Duration: 10 Days
- Trek Days: 5 Days
- Cultural Tour Days: 5 Days
- Total Trek Distance: approximately 61km
- Trip Cost From: $6,309 per person
About the Trek
The Bhutan Juniper Trek is a short but rewarding route that runs from Chuzomtoe in Thimphu district to Chele La Pass above Paro. Over five days on trail, you walk ridge lines with open views of the Bhutan Himalaya, the Ha and Paro valleys below, and on clear days, Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain, rising across the border in Sikkim.
How This Route Was Found
The route was first researched and walked in 2006. The team who walked it were the first to document the full trail and were given the opportunity to name it. They named it the Bhutan Juniper Trek. Since then, guides who know Bhutan’s trekking network well regard this as the best short trek in the country, offering views and terrain normally found only on much longer high-altitude routes.
What You See on Trail
In summer, the trail passes through alpine meadows filled with primulas, rhododendrons, and other wildflowers. Pheasants and other wildlife are common along the ridge sections. Yak herders are regularly seen on the higher pastures. The sacred peaks of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherimgang are visible from multiple points on the route.
Five days on trail combine with five days of cultural sightseeing in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. The lower valleys add Dzongs, temples, and farmhouses to the journey. This itinerary works as shown or as a starting point for a tailor-made trip.
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During this journey, one will experience breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan Peaks including sacred Chomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport a representative of the Bhutan Holiday will receive you. The drive to Hotel through Paro valley is enchanting. After lunch you will be taken for a visit to Ta-Dzong Museum, Paro Dzong. Overnight at Hotel
Drive the winding road Northwest up the Pa Chu Drukgyel Dzong, the ruined Fort that once defended this valley from Tibetan invasion. This fortress, now a burned shell, was once strategic in Bhutan’s defense against Tibetan invasion. Mt. Chomolhari, the sacred summit, reaches skyward beyond the Dzong. This can be viewed on a clear day. On the way back you visit a typical Bhutanese farmhouse. After lunch walk up the hill just above Hotel to stretch your legs for the onward trek. OR a day excursion to Taktsang monastery viewpoint can be arranged.
Distance 14 Kms. Alt. 350m. Start trekking from Hotel. Most of the days walk is a gradual climb through Bhutanese farmhouses. The view of Paro valley from the trail is excellent Overnight in camp at Chonana.
Distance – 16 KM s.
A superb trekking day. Up hill for about 5 hours taking it slowly and allowing for plenty of stops. The trail takes you a forest filled with many species of Primula and Rhododendrons. From the pass and the trial along the ridge of Chelela the Himalayan range of Bhutan can be seen. Overnight in camp.
Distance 15 KMs. Alt. 3845m. Today is a day to be up early. The early morning views from camp of Chomolhari “Divine Mountain of the Goddess” Tserim gang” Glacier of long life, and Jichu Drake are stunning. The trail follows the ridge and besides the view of the Mountains you can also see the valley of Ha and Paro. Overnight in camp.
Distance- 16 KMs. Alt. 3940m. Another day with excellent views of mountains and valleys. On this route it is very common to see yak herders. Overnight in camp.
Distance – 16 KMs. Descend back to Paro valley. The trek ends at Drukgyel Dzong. Drive to Hotel. After lunch, drive to Thimphu. Overnight in Hotel.
A full day of sightseeing and shopping in Thimphu. Wander in the town, visit shops and the handicrafts emporium. Visit the workshop where all the handicrafts are produced, if you like. You may return to the Hotel for lunch with your guide and transport provided by BTC. Afternoon drive north up the valley toward Dechenchholing ( the residence of the Queen Mother) to get a wonderful down-valley view of Thimphu and Tashicho Dzong. Visit the silversmiths at the north end of the valley. Overnight in Hotel.
Excursion with pack lunch to Punakha and Wangdi valley. Visit Punakha Dzong when the monks are in Thimphu. Drive back to Thimphu and overnight at Hotel.
Drive to the International Airport at Paro for onward flight to Kathmandu/Delhi/Bangkok.
The Bhutan Juniper Trek was first researched and named in 2006. The route runs along a high ridge between the Ha and Paro valleys, giving views of the Bhutan Himalaya, Kanchenjunga in Sikkim, and the valleys below on both sides of the ridge. Guides with wide knowledge of Bhutan’s trekking network regard this as the best short trek in the country. No other short route in Bhutan delivers this combination of ridge walking, mountain views, and access to both valleys.
The trek is moderate. Daily distances range from 14km to 16km, and the highest point is approximately 3,940m. The ridge sections are open and exposed, so wind and cold are factors in the morning. A reasonable level of fitness and some prior walking experience will prepare you well for the five days on trail.
Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, give the best conditions. Spring brings rhododendrons and primulas in bloom along the trail. Autumn offers clear skies and the sharpest mountain views. Summer trekking is possible and the alpine flowers are at their peak, though afternoon cloud and rain are more frequent.
Some prior trekking experience is recommended. The daily distances and ridge altitude require steady fitness and comfort walking on uneven terrain for several hours each day.
Pack layered clothing for cold mornings and warmer afternoons on the ridge, a warm jacket, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, a hat, trekking poles, and altitude sickness medication. A quality sleeping bag is essential for tented nights above 3,800m.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
- 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium update).
- Bhutan visa fee – including all necessary processing
- Route Permit
- Three meals per day during your stay in Bhutan
- A licensed Bhutanese tour guide
- All land transportation by private vehicle
- Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- Monuments entrance fees where applicable
- Drinking water
- All internal taxes and charges
- A sustainable development fee of $200. (This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, and poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.)
- Airfare & Travel Insurance
- Expenses of personal nature, Tips to guides and drivers
- Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.
Trek Overview
- Duration: 10 days total, 5 days trekking and 5 days cultural sightseeing
- Trek distance: approximately 61km
- Altitude range: Paro valley at 2,280m to ridge high point at approximately 3,940m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Months: March, April, September, and October give the clearest skies and best trail conditions.
Wildlife and Flora
- Pheasants, yaks, and alpine wildflowers including primulas and rhododendrons are common on the upper trail sections.
- Yak herders are regularly seen on the high pastures above 3,500m.
Health and Permits
- Carry altitude sickness medication for ridge sections above 3,500m.
- A personal first-aid kit, sunscreen, and lip balm are recommended.
- All trekking permits are mandatory and arranged by us.
Alternative Treks
- Samtengang Trek for a low-altitude, warm-climate trek through Punakha district
- Laya Gasa Trek for a longer, high-altitude Himalayan route with more remote terrain
A Route Worth the Effort
The Bhutan Juniper Trek rewards every day on trail. The ridge sections above 3,800m give views that most visitors to Bhutan never reach. On one side, the Ha valley sits quiet and green far below. On the other, the Paro valley stretches back toward the airport and the town. Above both valleys, the peaks of Chomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherimgang stand clear on a good morning.
Short Trek, Full Experience
Five days on trail followed by five days in Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha give a complete picture of Bhutan. You cover the high ridge and the valley Dzongs, the alpine pastures and the ancient temples, within a single 10-day journey.
Secure Your Place
Group sizes are small and departures in spring and autumn fill ahead of the season. Book your 10-day Bhutan Juniper Trek now to secure your spot for 2026 & 2027.
Bhutan Travel Info
Travel Essentials
- Travel/Medical Insurance: Ensure a worry-free journey with Bhutan's dedicated travel and medical insurance plans offered by the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan. Visit RICB for more information.
- Banking: Modern banking facilities are available in urban areas of Bhutan, with banks like Bank of Bhutan Limited, Druk PNB, and Bhutan National Bank. ATMs are common in Thimphu and Phuentsholing, but scarce in rural areas. Complete your banking in major cities.
- Money Matters: Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), which is equivalent in value to the Indian Rupee. Foreign travelers should bring traveler’s cheques or cash, especially USD. Credit cards like Visa and American Express are accepted in most areas.
- Communication: Bhutan's telecommunications are well-developed with internet cafes, mobile phone coverage, and international roaming available in most towns.
- Electricity: Bhutan operates on 230 volts and 50 Hertz. Ensure your devices are compatible with the three types of plugs commonly used.
- Time Zone: Bhutan's time is six hours ahead of GMT.
Health, Safety, and Customs
- Health and Inoculations: Recommended vaccinations include tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Avoid untreated water and ice cubes; instead, opt for bottled water, which is readily available.
- Safety Precautions: Bhutan is generally safe, but avoid walking alone or staying out late, especially after 9 PM. Secure your belongings, particularly in the capital, Thimphu.
- Customs Regulations: Personal belongings, 1 liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, and professional equipment are exempt from customs duty. Importing restricted items, such as wildlife products, antiques, and drugs, is prohibited.
Accommodation, Food, and Shopping
- Accommodation: Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from quality 3-star to luxury 5-star hotels in places like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha. Travelers can also opt for camping when venturing beyond urban areas.
- Food: Bhutanese cuisine is rich and spicy, featuring dishes like ema datshi. International cuisine such as Indian, Continental, and Chinese is available in most restaurants, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
- Shopping: Bhutan offers unique handicrafts, including hand-woven textiles, wooden bowls (Dapas), silver statues, Thangkas, and local postage stamps. Note that the buying and selling of antiques is strictly prohibited.
Travel Kits and Clothing
- Clothing and Essentials: Bhutan's climate is diverse, so dress in layers and pack accordingly. Respectful clothing is required when visiting monasteries and religious sites, and hats should be removed in sacred areas.
- Travel Kits: Pack items like sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, antihistamine cream, anti-diarrhea pills, a flashlight, warm clothes, and a hat. The diverse climate means temperatures range from 20-25°C in summer to below 15°C in winter.
Experiences and Activities
- Photography: Capture Bhutan's stunning landscapes, rural life, and architecture. Indoor photography in sacred sites requires special permission.
- Guides and Interpreters: Bhutan offers certified guides fluent in various languages, ensuring you get the best experience when visiting sacred sites and cultural landmarks.
- Festivals and Holidays: Each district in Bhutan celebrates its unique annual tshechu. Check local schedules to plan your visit around these vibrant festivals.
- Weights and Measures: Bhutan uses metric measurements for weight, with advanced electronic scales commonly found in major cities.
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