Jomolhari – Trekking the Himalayas

Upon arrival at the airport, a local representative will greet you and assist you throughout your stay in Bhutan. In Paro, you will immediately embark on a cultural journey to visit one of Bhutan's most iconic sites.

Rinpung Dzong, built in the 17th century, is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture. It currently houses 200 monks and the district administration. The dzong’s central tower, the Utse, is renowned for its exceptional beauty. You can explore the Kuenrey, the prayer and study hall for the monks, and take photographs in the dzong's courtyard.

After your visit, you will hike down to the old wooden bridge, which was once the sole entrance to the dzong and was guarded at night in ancient times. Later, you can stroll around the town, visit local restaurants, and fully immerse yourself in the Bhutanese atmosphere. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 2300m 

Today, you will embark on a warm-up hike to one of Bhutan's most scenic and significant pilgrimage sites, Taktsang, also known as Tiger's Nest. This iconic temple, which has served as a refuge for over 1,200 years, is perched 200 meters above a steep cliff overlooking the Paro Valley. Its rich history dates back to the 8th century when Guru Rimpoche, the founder of tantric Buddhism in the Himalayan region, visited the site.

The original temple was constructed in the 17th century but was destroyed by a fire in 1998. It was meticulously rebuilt to its former glory in 2003. In the evening, you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude : 3150m, Distance :7km Trek : 5hrs, Ascent: 600m, Descend :600m 

Start your day with a drive to the picturesque Dzongdrakha village, a charming settlement perched on a cliff high above the Paro Valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding rice fields and the valley below.

After exploring the village, continue your drive to Kila Gompa monastery, home to around 30 nuns. At the monastery, you can enjoy a cup of tea with the nuns, who are delighted to share their insights and stories with visitors. Once you’ve absorbed the serene atmosphere of Kila Gompa, continue your hike towards Chela Pass, located at an altitude of 3,988 meters. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayas, a sight that will leave you feeling inspired and invigorated.

After the hike, return to Paro Valley and spend some time exploring the town. Towards the afternoon, drive to Shana, passing Drugyel Dzong, and spend the night at the camp. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 2870m, Distance :120km, Drive: 4hrs 

Today will be the longest day of the trek, featuring numerous ups and downs that may leave you feeling quite exhausted. You will trek across the isolated farm of Shing Karap, situated at an altitude of around 3,100 meters. Soon, you will reach a trail junction marked by piles of rocks adorned with colorful prayer flags. Taking the left trail will lead you towards Tibet, crossing the Tremo La Pass. However, you will follow the right trail, marked by a rock with "way to Soi" and an arrow pointing in that direction.

This trail involves a steep climb followed by a descent to a bridge, which will allow you to cross the river. From there, continue your ascent through the forest until you reach Thongo Samba, a clearing that serves as an ideal spot for lunch.

The forest is stunningly beautiful, with diverse vegetation. At this high altitude, you may encounter yaks. It’s important to exercise caution around them, as they may not be very friendly towards strangers. If you do encounter yaks on the trail, maintain a safe distance and let them pass first. It’s advisable to stay above them on the trail rather than below.

The trail will eventually lead you to a small white stupa and a bridge. Do not cross this bridge as it leads to Yaktsa village. Your campsite for the night, Soi Thangthangkha, is located just half an hour from the bridge. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 3750m, Distance :17km Trek: 8 to 9hrs, Ascent: 900m 

Your early raise will be rewarded with the view of Jomolhari (7,325m) with the sun rays illuminating on its peak, nestled between two steep valleys. After an hour's walk along the left side of the Pa Chhu (Paro River), you will leave the tree line behind and enter a breathtaking valley. As the valley widens, you’ll be treated to stunning views of high, snow-capped peaks.

You will pass a military campsite that guards the border with Tibet before encountering yaks and their winter camps. Continuing your trek, you will come across several small houses in Soia Yutey. It’s worth stopping here for a cup of butter tea and lunch. The campsite is just a few minutes' walk from the village, making it an ideal spot to spend the night. Overnight camp 

Altitude : 4040m, Distance :12km Trek : 5hrs, Ascent: 300m

Today, on your rest day, you have the opportunity to engage in some acclimatization activities. One option is to take a walk to Tshophu, a stunning spot featuring two lakes and breathtaking views of the majestic Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey peaks. Alternatively, you can embark on a hike in various directions. Head west towards the towering Jomolhari and its subsidiary peaks, or venture north to encounter the imposing Jichu Drakey. For a more adventurous option, explore the eastern region by scaling summits and ridges and forging your own trail. However, be aware that this hike lacks a defined trail, so exercise caution and be vigilant for potential hazards. Regardless of the option you choose, you are guaranteed to be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty while acclimatizing to the high altitude of the region.

Altitude: 4040m 

This part of the trek offers magnificent view of the Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tserim Gang. Departing from the last house in Jangothang, the trail crosses a small bridge and ascends a steep hill to a stunning open area. Along the way, keep an eye out for Himalayan vultures and herds of marmots.

As you climb through the beautiful valley to the left, you’ll be captivated by the scenery. It takes about three hours to reach the Nyle La pass at 4,880 meters. From the pass, enjoy a steep descent to the stream before veering left along the mountain. This section of the trail is relatively flat until you reach the ridge, where you’ll be greeted by the mystical Dzong of Lingshi. The dzong dominates the landscape, offering breathtaking views of Jichu Drakey and Tserim Gang.

After soaking in the stunning vistas, descend through the forest to your campsite at Chha Chi Thang for overnight. Overnight camp 

Altitude : 4010m, Distance :15km Trek: 6hrs, Ascent: 800m, Descend :730m 

We will trek through the deep glacial valley and will last approximately four hours, culminating in a steep climb to the Yele La Pass, which stands at a lofty altitude of 4,950 meters. This pass is the highest point of the trek and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you can also enjoy the beauty of glacial lakes.

After reaching Yele La Pass, the trail descends gradually towards the campsite at Shodu, located at 4,110 meters. This long descent is an ideal opportunity to rest and recharge while taking in the stunning scenery. Overnight camp 

Altitude : 4100m, Distance :16km Trek: 7hrs, Ascent: 940m, Descend :920m 

Today's trek follows a picturesque route along the Thimphu Chhu River through a limestone valley. Along the way, we will encounter several caves used by monks for meditation. These caves are believed to have been visited by the revered Shabdrung in the 17th century during his flight from Tibet.

One of the highlights of this section is the opportunity to admire the giant rock faces and cascading waterfalls that adorn the landscape. The sheer scale and beauty of these natural wonders are sure to leave a lasting impression. As we continue, we will gradually ascend 130 meters to reach Barshong Dzong, an ancient fortress now in ruins that reflects Bhutan’s rich history and culture.

This will be the end of our trek and from there, we will drive to Thimphu via Dodena. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude: 3600m, Distance :15km Trek: 6hrs, Ascent: 250m, Descend :670m, Drive: 2hrs 

We will start by visiting the Buddha Dordenma statue, which overlooks Thimphu Valley, followed by the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the third king. Next, we'll explore the Painting School, where students learn 13 unique arts and crafts of Bhutan. We will then visit the weekend market and the Changlimithang Archery Ground to witness a match of Bhutan's national sport.

In the afternoon, we'll drive to Paro and enjoy dinner at a local farmhouse, where you can sample the local alcohol called Ara. We will also try the hot stone bath at the farmhouse. Overnight will be at the hotel.

Altitude: 2300m, Distance :70km, Drive: 1hr

Transfer to airport for departure