Today's trek takes you deeper into the wilderness. The morning trail passes through thick fir and hemlock forest, the trees draped with old man's beard lichen—a sign of the pristine air quality in these remote highlands. By midday, you break through the treeline into open yak pastures, vast meadows dotted with grazing animals and the occasional herder's shelter. The immense silence of the high mountains settles around you. Camp is established beneath the imposing Rodung La ridge, your objective for tomorrow. Evenings here are magical—yak bells echo across the valley, prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and the Himalayan peaks glow pink in the alpenglow.

The adventure truly begins today. An early morning drive takes you through increasingly remote landscapes to Dur Village, the gateway to the Wild Rodung La Trek. Shouldering your daypack, you step onto the ancient trade route that will guide you through the coming days. The trail winds gently through magnificent spruce and rhododendron forests, following a glacial stream whose milky waters speak of the high peaks above. As you gain altitude, the forest opens to reveal alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Camp is set at Thomkhar, a pristine meadow where your expedition team will have prepared a warm welcome—hot tea, a hearty meal, and comfortable tents under a canopy of stars.

Take a scenic domestic flight eastward across the heart of Bhutan to Bumthang—known as the spiritual heartland of the kingdom. This central valley is dotted with ancient temples and monasteries, many dating back to the 7th century. Spend the afternoon on a short acclimatization walk through Jakar Dzong, the 'Castle of the White Bird,' and explore local monasteries where monks go about their daily prayers. This is also your final opportunity for gear check and to purchase any last-minute supplies before the trek begins. Evening briefing covers the route, weather expectations, and safety protocols.

Fly into Bhutan's spectacular Paro Valley, where the dramatic runway approach between towering peaks offers your first glimpse of this magical kingdom. Meet your Juniper Outdoor trip leader at the airport and transfer to your boutique hotel nestled in the valley. The evening is at leisure, allowing you to stretch your legs with a gentle walk through Paro town, acclimatize to the altitude, and join a welcome orientation where you'll meet your fellow trekkers and learn about the incredible journey ahead. The crisp mountain air and the sight of dzongs (fortress-monasteries) perched on hillsides will set the tone for your adventure.