Four days into the yak pastures north of Paro — a high, wild, and rarely trekked route reaching nearly 4,900m with unforgettable close-up views of Jumolhari and Jichu Drake.
The Soi Yaksa Trek is a compact but high-altitude route north of Paro that reaches 4,890m — higher than most passes on the famous Jumolhari Trek. This is the shortest route in the region to get genuinely close to the great Himalayan peaks, with the Jumolhari massif looming dramatically overhead from the high camp.
The trail follows the Paro Chhu river north before climbing into the open highland plateau used seasonally by local yak herders. The high camp at Soi Yaksa sits in a broad bowl surrounded by massive peaks, glaciers, and the silence of the true high Himalaya.
This route is excellent for fit trekkers who want a genuine high-altitude experience without committing to 12+ days on the trail. It can also be combined with the Druk Path Trek for a more varied 10-day itinerary.
Drive north from Paro town to the trailhead near Drujegang. The trail follows the Paro Chhu (river) north through blue pine and fir forest, passing small farm settlements and occasional chortens. The army checkpoint at Shana marks the boundary of the protected trekking area. Camp here at a beautiful riverside meadow.
The longest day — a steady climb north along the river valley, leaving the forest behind for open glacial terrain. The trail passes through broad meadows used by yak herders in summer. Jumolhari's summit, at 7,315m, gradually dominates the skyline ahead. Camp at Thangthangkha, a classic base camp meadow ringed by high peaks.
The most dramatic day. The trail climbs steeply through rocky moraine terrain to the Soi Yaksa high camp at 4,890m. The sense of scale here is extraordinary — Jumolhari's south face and the Jichu Drake ridgeline tower directly overhead. A small glacial lake sits above camp, reflecting the peaks in the early morning. Acclimatise well — the altitude is significant.
An early start to make the most of clear morning views of Jumolhari, then a long descent back through Thangthangkha and Shana to the trailhead. A vehicle waits to transfer you back into Paro. Evening at leisure in Paro — try the local restaurants and explore the Rinpung Dzong before departure.