The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure – The Snowman Trek in Bhutan

Upon arrival at Paro airport, you will be warmly received by our representative and will be transferred to your hotel. In the late afternoon, visit Rimpong Dzong, originally built in 1645. Although it was destroyed by fire in 1907, it was rebuilt in the same year. The dzong is home to 200 monks and serves as the district administration center. After exploring the dzong, hike down to the old wooden bridge, which in ancient times was guarded at night as it was the only entrance to the dzong.

Take a leisurely stroll around the town. It's a great idea to stop by one of the local restaurants for a cup of tea and soak in the Bhutanese atmosphere. Overnight at the hotel.

Altitude: 2300m 

Trek to Bhutan's most scenic icon and important place for pilgrimage, and refuge for over 1200 years, the Taktsang or the Tiger's Nest clings 200 meters on the steep cliff overlooking Paro valley. The place was first visited by Guru Rimpoche, the founder of the tantric form of Buddhism in Himalayan countries in the 8th century. After him, many high Buddhist priests came to meditate and attained the highest spirituality. The total hike will take about four hours. From the parking, it will take about one hour to get to the tea house and another one and a half hours to the temple. In the evening, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songchen Gyampo. Overnight at the hotel

Altitude: 3150m, Distance :7km Trek: 4 to 5hrs, Ascent: 600m, Descent: 600m

Drive to Shana, the starting point of your trek. There, you will be greeted by your team, who will accompany you on your adventurous journey.

The trek begins at Shana Zampa and passes by the isolated farm of Shing Karap at around 3,100 meters. After a while, you will reach a crossroads marked by a pile of rocks adorned with prayer flags. The left trail leads to Tibet, crossing the pass known as Tremo La. On the rock, you will see the words "way to Soi" with an arrow pointing towards the right trail, which you will follow. A steep climb followed by a descent will take you to a bridge, allowing you to cross to the left side of the river. From there, you will continue climbing through the forest until you reach the clearing known as Thongo Samba, an ideal spot for lunch.

The forest is lush with various types of vegetation, and at this high altitude, you may encounter yaks. Be cautious, as they are not always friendly toward strangers. The trail will lead you to a bridge and a small white stupa. Do not cross the bridge, as it leads to the village of Yaktsa. About half an hour from the bridge is your campsite at Soi Thangthangkha.

Overnight at the camp.

Altitude: 3750m, Distance :20km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 900m

Early in the morning, you can admire the sun's rays touching the second-highest peak, Jomolhari (7314m), nestled between two steep valleys. Continue by following the left side of the Pa chhu or Paro River for about an hour, and you will be above the tree line and will enter a stunning valley. After the military camp, the valley will widen, and you will get a view of some high and snow-capped peaks. Along the way, several small houses are found, and this place is called Soia Yutey. Stop here in one of these houses for a cup of butter tea and lunch. The Jomolhari basecamp is just few minutes from the village. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding area by yourself. Overnight camp 

 Altitude: 4040m, Distance :15km Trek: 4 to 5hrs, Ascent: 290m

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. 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 :17km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 660m, Descent: 660m

Trek toward Lingshi Dzong, perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of emerald green hills, winding rivers, and majestic peaks. This fortified structure has served as both a sanctuary for Buddhist devotees and a defensive stronghold against invasions from Tibet and Mongolia for centuries.

Today's itinerary is relaxed, featuring a pleasant stroll through picturesque villages and pastures inhabited by yak herders. After a sumptuous lunch, a short trek will bring you to the charming hamlet of Chebisa, where a dazzling crystal-clear waterfall awaits. Here, beside the gentle murmur of a stream, you will set up camp at an altitude of 3,850 meters, immersing yourself in the serenity of nature. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 3850m, Distance :12km Trek: 4 to 5hrs, Ascent: 160m

You will have a challenging start, as you  ascend towards Gogu La pass (4500m), which will take approximately four hours.  After the pass, you will traverse through a breathtaking landscape of vibrant rhododendron bushes until you reach a picturesque lunch spot. The afternoon trek will continue with a series of gentle ascents and descents, crossing streams and meandering through lush forests, past traditional yak herder camps, and finally arriving at Shakepasa, nestled at an altitude of 3980m.

From here, the journey becomes more challenging, as you climb steeply towards the northern side of the valley, taking in the magnificent views of the Himalayan range. As you pass by a few more yak herder camps, the trail leads you to a serene campsite beside a babbling stream, situated at an altitude of 4250m. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4250m, Distance :17km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 570m, Descent: 290m 

Trek along a trail adorned with edelweiss toward Jari La Pass at 4,750 meters. From the pass, you'll be treated to a view of the snow-capped Kangbum (6,526 meters) to the southeast.

Afterward, you'll descend into the Tsarijathang Valley, which serves as the summer grazing ground for the rare Himalayan Takin, Bhutan's national animal. Crossing the stream and heading to the left, the trail will continue to ascend until you reach Robluthang, a rocky meadow where you'll set up camp. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4200m, Distance :17km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 700m, Descent: 760m

Today's trek will be a truly exhilarating experience as you cross one of the highest pass of the entire trek. As you make your way up through boggy patches, you'll be crossing streams and spotting marmot holes and moraines. Finally, you'll reach the top of Shingchen La pass (5005m) where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the snow-covered Gangchenta or the Tiger Mountain (6840m) that fills the northern horizon.

Your descent after the pass will be through a rough and rocky trail, following the moraine river valley until you reach the Kango Chhu River. After a fresh walk through the cedar forests, you'll finally arrive at Lingmithang (4140m), a beautiful campsite with scattered meadows by the river, and the Tiger Mountain (Gangchenta) towering majestically behind your campsite. 

Altitude: 4140m, Distance :18km Trek: 7 to 8hrs, Ascent: 850m, Descent: 870m 

The trek to Laya passes through a dense forest, filled with the lush greenery of moss and the sweet melody of singing birds, the path will lead you through an uninhabited valley. Along the way, you will witness the grace of a cascading waterfall, its crystal-clear water cascading down the rocks. As you continue on the trail, you will reach a junction, where the upper path leads you to fields speckled with charming stone houses. Finally, at an altitude of 3800m, you will arrive at Laya village, the second highest settlement in the country, where the air is crisp and the views are simply breathtaking. Overnight farmhouse 

Altitude: 3850m, Distance :10km Trek: 3 to 4hrs

Venture out and discover the beauty of Laya village. You're welcome to visit any of the local homes and experience the warm hospitality that Bhutanese culture is known for. Even to a stranger, you'll be greeted with a friendly smile and offered a cup of tea or Chang, the local wine.

The inhabitants of this valley are particularly intriguing, especially the women who dress in traditional black wool kiras and adorn themselves with conical bamboo hats adorned with turquoise, silver ornaments, and beaded strings. Overnight farmhouse 

Altitude: 3850m 

From the village the trail descends to the Lunana trail junction, followed by a climb to a hilltop where you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Mo Chhu and the Rhodo Chhu. From there, the trail then winds through the picturesque Rhodo Chhu valley, leading you first through a forest of mixed conifers before opening up to a landscape of lush rhododendron bushes, stretching beyond the treeline.

At the top of a massive rockslide, a sight of the glacial valley and a colossal glacier on Tsenda Gang (7100m) is sure to leave you spellbound. As you continue on, you'll find yourself at our campsite at Rodophu, located at an elevation of 4160m, just beyond a charming wooden bridge that spans across the Rhodo Chhu river. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4160m, Distance :19km Trek: 7 to 8hrs, Ascent: 900m, Descent: 70m 

Following the trail along the river, you'll pass through a dense thicket of rhododendron shrubs before turning right up a hill. As you continue to climb, you'll gradually emerge into a high open valley filled with verdant meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see. At the pinnacle of this climb, you'll reach Tshomo La Pass (4915m), which will offer you truly awe-inspiring views of Mount Jomolhari and the Tibetan borders beyond.

From here, you'll continue your trek across a barren plateau, criss-crossing several yak trails as you go. Despite the rugged terrain, the sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape will leave you feeling uplifted and invigorated. As you journey on, you'll eventually arrive at Narithang (4900m), which will serve as your campsite for the evening. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4900m, Distance :17km Trek: 5 to 6hrs, Ascent: 750m, Descent: 15m 

Today's trek will lead you to the magnificent Ganglakarchung Pass (5120m). From this vantage point, you'll be able to witness the grandeur of Kangbum (6530m), Tsendhen Gang (7100m), Teri Gang (7300m), and Jejegangphu Gang (7120m), all of which create a stunning backdrop to your trek.

From the pass, you will descend through massive moraines and towards the edge of a straight cliff that affords breathtaking views of a glacial lake hanging from Teri Gang. The lake is a vivid turquoise color and is split into two distinct sections at the base of the mountain. In 1961, an outburst from the left lake caused a flood downstream in Punakha, resulting in the destruction of the Mochu Bridge. The descent from the pass follows a steep path that leads you through a U-shaped valley, following the Tangchu stream to your right. Finally, you'll arrive at your campsite, situated at an elevation of 4350m. Overnight camp

Altitude: 4350m, Distance :17km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 200m, Descent: 770m 

Today’s trek will lead you through a serene forest of junipers, tracing the winding course of the Tangchu River as it flows gently to your left. As you continue on, the path will gradually begin to climb, winding its way up out of the valley and into the open expanse of the surrounding hills. But don't be fooled by the gentle ascent - before long, you'll be faced with a steep and challenging climb that will put your endurance and determination to the test.

Finally, after what seems like an eternity of climbing, you'll reach the pinnacle of your ascent and find yourself standing in the quaint and picturesque village of Woche. Perched at an altitude of 4350m, this charming settlement marks the beginning of the Lunana region, and is steeped in rich history and cultural heritage. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4350m, Distance :16km Trek: 5 to 6hrs, Ascent: 250m, Descent: 310m

Today's path will lead you up the picturesque valley of Woche as you ascend toward the towering peaks in the distance. After crossing a small stream, you'll climb over a rocky moraine before descending to a wooden bridge that spans the glistening waters of the Woche Chu River.

From here, the trail will take you on a challenging ascent past a crystal-clear glacial lake as you make your way toward the stunning Keche La Pass. Standing at an altitude of 4,650 meters, this majestic pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic three-pronged peaks of Jejegangphu Gang.

Descending from the pass, you'll head into Pochu Valley, a peaceful oasis amidst the rugged mountains and rocky terrain. Continuing on, you'll pass through the village of Thaga (4,050 meters).

As you descend further, you'll encounter several scattered settlements, and finally, after a long and challenging journey, you'll arrive at Lhedi village, nestled along the banks of the Phochu River. Here, you'll find a variety of amenities, including a school, a basic health unit, and even a wireless station. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4200m, Distance: 19km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 300m, Descent: 450m

From the camp, follow the north bank of the Phochu River, winding your way through several small farms toward Chuzo Village (4,090 meters). Along the way, you'll pass by Chuzo Dzong, a magnificent fortification rich in history and cultural significance. After leaving the riverbed, you'll ascend to a hill overlooking Thanza Valley, situated at 4,250 meters, where we will camp for the night. Overnight Camp 

Altitude: 4250m, Distance :19km Trek: 5 to 6hrs, Ascent: 250m

Today offers you two exciting options to explore the beautiful Thanza region. The first option is to visit the Thanza Village, a place that is like stepping back in time. The people here have a medieval-like society that has remained virtually untouched for centuries. The locals wear clothes that they make by hand, weaving and dyeing their own material. They fashion their own unique hats, boots, and jewelry, which adds to their distinctive charm. Their homes are built with sturdy stone walls, hand-hewn wood shingles, and clay mortar, showcasing their architectural skills. They lead a simple yet sustainable lifestyle by relying on grains, yak meat, and cheese from the lower valleys.

If you want a more adventurous option, you can hike through the small moraine rocks to reach the clusters of Raphstreng Tsho and Thorthormi Tsho, two nearby glacial lakes. These lakes are the source of the Phochu River of Punakha, which caused a flood in 1994 due to a moraine outburst. Despite the risk, the view of the 7100m Table Mountain (locally known as Zongphu Gang) from here is absolutely breathtaking. The mountain forms a 3000m high wall of ice and snow behind the Thanza Village, adding to the beauty of the region. Whether you choose to visit the village or the glacial lakes, you are sure to have a memorable and enriching experience in Thanza. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4250m

Ascent for about one hour to get to the ridge, with an unparalleled view of numerous snow-capped peaks, the village of Thangza, and the distant Chozo Dzong. You then continue along a gentler slope, following a small valley that inclines northward. Leaving behind the path that leads up to the Gophu La (a pass that would take you to Bumthang), our route crosses a small bridge and winds through large boulders. The climb becomes steep at times, requiring you to pass several ridges before reaching the pass.

The Jeze La, at 5,170 meters, offers a panoramic view of many snow-capped peaks and imposing glaciers that descend toward the lakes below. The descent becomes gentler before one final steep section that brings you to the twin lakes of Tsochena, where you will spend the night. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4930m, Distance: 19km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 1120m, Descent: 355m 

Follow the shoreline of the blue-green lake and then ascend towards the ridge at 5,150 meters, offering panoramic 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks. From here, you can also catch a distant glimpse of the road Dochu La pass. The trail undulates over small, rounded hills before passing a glacial lake and reaching the Loju La pass (5,170 meters), a yak pasture crisscrossed with numerous yak trails. We take a path that crosses a small saddle-like hill at 5,120 meters, leading us into a wide glacial valley. Continuing our descent, we arrive at Jichudramo camp (5,050 meters) – the highest campsite of our entire trek.

Altitude: 5015m, Distance :14km Trek: 5 to 6hrs, Ascent: 4200m, Descent: 280m 

A superb day unfolds among colorful lakes and vast plateaus, all under the watchful gaze of the surrounding glaciers. As we approach the Rinchenzoe La pass, we will have the view of entire Great Himalayan range! From the pass, the trail descends to the "mirror" lake, leading to a sandy area that gives way to a series of ascents and descents, where you’ll discover beautiful turquoise lakes. It’s not uncommon to encounter long caravans of yaks hastening to reach Thangza before winter sets in. After a few more ridges and a final descent, we arrive at the Chukarpo camp. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4595m, Distance :15km Trek: 5 to 6hrs, Ascent: 300m, Descent: 950m 

A long, rocky descent across a high plateau brings us to a forested area. After the stark landscapes of the previous days, we find immense pleasure in rediscovering the lush greenery. We enjoy a picnic at the base of a steep climb ahead. Our camp is situated near a small lake or, possibly, on a flat area just below the pass. This will be our last night above 4,000 meters. Overnight camp 

Altitude: 4320m, Distance :19km Trek: 7 to 8hrs, Ascent: 510m, Descent: 785m 

The day begins with a steep climb to Tampela Pass (4,600 meters), followed by a descent to Omtsho Lake. According to legend, in the 15th century, the famous saint Terton Pema Lingpa miraculously discovered a treasure from this lake. As we approach the lake, we will see areas marked by prayer flags, and then descend steeply past a waterfall to a small lake. Eventually, the trail reaches the left bank of the Nika Chu River. After some time, we arrive at a large open area near the confluence with a major tributary flowing from the east. We will cross a wooden bridge and walk through mixed forests to reach Maraothang (3,620 meters), a wide-open area with a yak herder’s camp, where we will spend our last night.

Altitude: 3620m, Distance :16km Trek: 4 to 5hrs, Ascent: 280m, Descent: 980m 

Final stage of our Snow Man trek. We pass through a beautiful forest of rhododendrons and magnolias before reaching the village of Serphu, where the vehicle-accessible road begins. The great adventure comes to an end! We bid farewell to the local team, give out tips, and enjoy a small farewell drink. We then depart by bus to reach the road at the Nikachu bridge, and from there, head to the Phobjika Valley for a well-deserved night in a hotel. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2650m, Distance :20km Trek: 6 to 7hrs, Ascent: 970m

After breakfast, on the way to Thimphu, we stop to visit Wangdue dzong followed by Punakha. Afternoon, we continue our drive towards Thimphu with a stop at Dochula pass. 

Once in Thimphu, check in the hotel and stall around the town. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 4hrs 

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will visit the following places in Thimphu. We will explore some fascinating places in Thimphu. Our first stop will be at Buddha Point, which is a popular tourist attraction offering a stunning view of the town of Thimphu. This point has one of the largest Buddha statues in the country, and it is a remarkable sight to behold. The statue stands tall and majestic, offering an inspiring image of the Buddhist religion.

Next, we will visit an archery field where we can witness Bhutan's national sport in action. The game is played with a longbow and arrow, and we can observe the players' incredible precision and skill.

Our next stop is the Takin Reserve, where we can observe the national animal of Bhutan, the takin. These unique creatures, with the head of a goat and the body of a cow, can only be found in the eastern Himalayas. In Bhutan, they are exclusively found in the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park. Legend has it that Drukpa Kuenley, a lama who is also known as the "Divine Madman," created the takin.

Towards the evening, we will drive to Paro for overnight. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2300m, Drive: 1h

Drive to Paro airport for departure to Singapore