>

>

Soi – Yaktsa trek or Jomolhari Loop trek

Tour information

Tour overview and details

Tour duration

10 Days

Tour overview

This trek is a breathtaking journey through the majestic landscapes of Bhutan, where natural beauty meets the traditional way of life of the local semi-nomadic communities.

This trek guides you through rugged mountain terrain, past cascading waterfalls, lush valleys, and over high mountain passes, offering stunning views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and glacial lakes.

As you traverse remote villages, you will have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals, learn about their unique culture and traditions, and observe their daily lives.A highlight of the trek is the village of Yaktsa, where you can experience firsthand the simple and rustic lifestyle of the semi-nomadic people.

Places covered

  • Lorem
  • Ipsum
  • Lorem
  • Ipsum

Agenda

Tour itinerary

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. 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 

The trail continues eastward, leading to the last settlement in the valley before descending towards a ridge. You will cross the Paro Chhu River via a wooden bridge and then proceed to the turquoise Tshophu Lake, situated at 4,380 meters and home to ruddy shelducks. From there, you will embark on a steep climb to reach Bonte La, the highest point of the trek at 4,890 meters. Here, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring mountain vistas of Basingthang (5,500 meters) and Chatarake (5,570 meters).

After crossing the pass, the trail descends, following yak paths until you reach the Dhumzo Chhu River. Continuing downstream and passing a few houses, you will eventually arrive at a campsite situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters. Overnight camp 

Altitude : 3800m, Distance :15km Trek: 6 - 7hrs, Ascent: 810m, Descent : 1090m

From the camp, we will ascend for over 100 meters towards a ridge, followed by a descent to another stream. After crossing the stream, the trail climbs up the hillside, dips into a small side valley, and then emerges onto a ridge. At this point, the path takes a southerly direction, ascending past a few huts until it reaches Takhung La, a high mountain pass at an impressive elevation of 4,520 meters.

From the pass, a short descent leads to the picturesque Thombu Shong, a wide, grassy area dotted with a few yak herder's huts. The tranquility of this location, combined with the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, makes it an ideal spot to take a break, relax, and soak in the beauty of the Himalayas. Overnight camp 

Altitude : 4180m, Distance :11km Trek : 4 - 5hrs, Ascent: 720m, Descent : 340m

The trek continues through enchanting rhododendron forests until you reach Thombu La, located at an elevation of 4,380 meters. On a clear day, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of some of the most prominent peaks in the Himalayas, including Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Teri Kang, and even Kanchenjunga.

From the pass, the trail gradually descends to around 4,000 meters. After descending the ridge, you will finally arrive at the helipad situated at Gunitsawa, at 2,730 meters. Here, your vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Paro. Overnight at the hotel 

Altitude : 2300m, Distance :12km Trek : 4 - 5hrs, Ascent: 200m, Descent : 1650m

Day 10 :
Departure

Transfer to airport for departure

Included

  • Government levy/taxes & visa fee
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Government approved 3-star hotels
  • English speaking guide
  • Bottled water in vehicle
  • Permits, entrance fees, & sightseeing
  • Sleeping tents, sleeping mats & pillows
  • Dinning tents, kitchen tent & toilet tent
  • Tables, chairs, utensils, hot water bags
  • Trekking chef & assistants
  • Horses to carry trek equipments
  • Food supplies

Not included

  • Airfare
  • Insurance
  • Laundry
  • Drinks & beverages
  • Phone/internet bills
  • Tips
  • Wire transfer charge/card fee
  • Sleeping bag
  • Other bills of personal nature

Enquire this tour

$2560

/ person

Interested in this tour? Fill out the form below, and we will get back to you within 24h!

Information

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if this tour is right for me?

Each tour is designed for different travel styles, from adventure seekers to those looking for a more relaxed experience.

Check the itinerary and activity level, or explore our tour categories.

If you're unsure, feel free to fill out the enquiry form above, or contact us directly. We’ll connect with you personally to discuss your preferences and help find the best option.

How do I book this tour?

To book, simply fill out the enquiry form above, or contact us through the contact page.

Our team will respond promptly to confirm availability and answer any questions you may have, ensuring we understand your needs before finalizing the booking.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payments through several methods:

a 40% advance payment can be made via bank transfer, cash at our office, or demand draft/cheque.

The remaining balance is due before the start of your tour.

For more details, you can refer to our Terms and Conditions.

Can I create a custom tour?

Yes!

If you'd like to design a personalized tour that fits your preferences, we can help you plan a custom itinerary.

Simply click here to fill out our custom tour enquiry form, and our travel experts will work with you to craft the perfect adventure.

More tours

Related tours you will also love