Jomolhari Trek

Day 1: Arrival Paro

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Paro
Meals: lunch, dinner

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, a T8 Untrodden Travels representative will be waiting outside the arrival terminal, holding a placard with your name on it. The representative will greet you in the traditional manner by offering a Trashi Khadar (greeting scarf), and will be your guide for the entire tour.

Start your day by exploring Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century Buddhist monastery and fortress, and the National Museum. Next, visit Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, a temple symbolizing the different stages of rebirth, and climb between its levels to see beautiful displays of Buddhist artwork. End your day by visiting Drukgyal Dzong, a fortress and Buddhist monastery in ruins, now being rebuilt to commemorate significant events in Bhutan’s history.

Day 2: Hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Paro
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we will take you to the trailhead for a hike through the stunning pine forest, and stop at the Taktsang cafeteria for light refreshments before continuing to the famous Taktsang Monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest. This awe-inspiring monastery was built in 1684 around Guru Rimpoche’s meditation cave by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay, the Penlop of Paro. The monastery is perched on the edge of a sheer rock cliff that drops 900m into the valley below. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a flying tiger, Dorji Drolo from Kurtoe Singye Dzong in the east.

After lunch, we will visit Drugyal Dzong, 16 km away from Paro, which was a ruined fortress that played a significant role in Bhutan’s history as it was where the Bhutanese finally defeated the Tibetan invasion. On a clear day, you can see the sacred Mt. Jomolhari, the mountain of the Goddess. Later we will visit Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower built-in 1656, which now houses the National Museum. Below the museum, you’ll find the Rinpung Dzong, which means the “Heap of Jewels.” It was built-in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and served as the center of civil and religious authority in the valley. The stunning architecture and rich history of these structures make for an unforgettable experience.

Day 3: Paro – Gunitsawa – Thangthangkha

22KM | 8-9 HOURS | 900M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 3750M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Begin your day with an early breakfast, and then embark on a scenic drive of 35 kilometers north from your hotel in Paro valley to reach Sharna Zampa, the starting point of your trek. As you arrive, your trekking crew will be ready to greet you. Following a brief meeting, you will commence your trail, experiencing a mix of ascents and descents through enchanting pine, oak, and spruce forests. After around 2 hours of continuous hiking and crossing several streams, you will arrive at Shingkharap, a stone house nestled at an altitude of 3110 meters. Here, a delicious hot lunch awaits you on the left side of the river, after crossing the bridge. Continuing on, you will encounter a trail junction where the left path signifies an ancient trade route and invasion path from Tibet, while the right path leads to a wooden bridge (which we will follow). As you ascend through rhododendron forests and cross the bridge once again, you will arrive at our campsite situated at 3750 meters, surrounded by picturesque meadows.

Day 4: Thangthangkha – Jangothang

19KM | 4-5 HOURS | 290M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 4040M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

The day starts with an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the magnificent Mount Jomolhari, which can be seen from the campsite. The trek then continues up the Paro Chhu valley, which gradually widens into patches of alpine meadows and sparse forests. Along the way, you will cross an army checkpoint and be treated to breathtaking views of high mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks. The landscape is dotted with yaks and the homes of their herders. The trek also passes through several charming villages, including Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang.

After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas, you will have another opportunity to take in the stunning sight of Mount Jomolhari. The mountain dominates the skyline and is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The campsite is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine scenery, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Dinner and overnight camping will be at Jangothang, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings.

Day 5: Jangothang – Lingshi

18KM | 6-7 HOURS | 810M ASCENT | 730M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 4010M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

On this day, you will trek to the last settlement in the valley and then drop down to the Paro Chhu river. You will pass the beautiful lake of Tshophu, situated at an altitude of 4380m, before ascending steeply to the Bhonte La pass, the highest point of this trekking route at an altitude of 4930m. After that, you will descend towards the Dhumzo Chhu River and continue downstream, passing through the small village of Soe Yaktsa (Dhumzo) to finally reach your campsite.

Throughout the trek, you will come across wide yak pastures, and on clear weather, you will get a spectacular view of the Lingshi Dzong as you descend into the Lingshi basin. This is also a great opportunity to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly Bhutanese people.

Dinner and overnight camping will be at Lingshi, which is a remote village located at an altitude of 4010m, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.

Day 6: Lingshi – Sodu

22KM | 7-8 HOURS | 940M ASCENT | 920M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 4100M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Today’s trek begins with an ascent towards the Yelila pass, which stands at an altitude of 4930m. The climb up to the pass can be challenging, but once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Jomolhari, Tserimgang, and Masanggang, on a clear day.

After taking in the stunning vistas, the trail leads downhill towards the campsite at Shodu. The descent is steep and requires careful footing, as the terrain can be rugged and uneven. As you make your way down, you’ll pass through a dense forest with a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as musk deer and Himalayan blue sheep, which are known to inhabit this area.

Once you reach the campsite at Shodu, you’ll have the opportunity to rest and recharge for the next day’s trek. Take some time to explore the surrounding area, which is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Dinner will be served at the campsite, followed by an overnight stay in your tent.

Day 7: Sodu – Barshong

16KM | 5-6 HOURS | 250M ASCENT | 670M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3720M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

On this day, the trekking trail leads along the Thimphu Chhu, also known as the Thimphu River. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by dense rhododendron forests and have opportunities to see beautiful waterfalls along the way. As you continue on the trail, the valley will gradually narrow until the path takes to the slopes and begins a gradual ascent towards the ruins of Barshong Dzong.

The Barshong Dzong is an important historical site in Bhutan. It was built in the 17th century to protect against Tibetan invasions, and served as an administrative center until it was destroyed by a fire in the 1950s. Today, only the ruins remain, but they offer a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan’s rich history.

After arriving at Barshong, you’ll have dinner and spend the night camping at the site.

Day 8: Barshong – Dolam Kencho

15KM | 4-5 HOURS | 290M ASCENT | 640M DESCENT
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

On this day, the trail leads you downhill from the Barshong campsite, along the Thimphu Chhu river valley. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by dense forests of rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples, and bamboo, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere for your trek.

As you continue along the trail, the valley gradually opens up and you’ll ascend to beautiful pasture lands. The scenery is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The campsite for the night is located in a tranquil meadow at Dolam Kencho, where you can rest and enjoy the serenity of the countryside.

Dinner will be served at the campsite, followed by an overnight stay in your tents.

Day 9: Dolam Kencho – Dodena – Thimphu

8KM | 3-4 HOURS | 290M ASCENT | 640M DESCENT
Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

On this day, the trek continues with a descent to the Thimphu Chhu (Thimphu River) valley. The trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples, and bamboos. As you descend, the vegetation changes and you may see some wildlife along the way such as barking deer, Himalayan black bears, and even red pandas.

After crossing the river, the trail gradually ascends through more forests and opens up to the pasture lands of Dolam Kencho. This area is often dotted with yaks grazing on the lush grass. It’s a great opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyle of the Bhutanese yak herders.

Dinner and overnight camping will be at a scenic meadow in Dolam Kencho.

Day 10: Thimphu Sightseeing

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

After break explore Thimphu. First on the list is the National Memorial Chorten, which is a stupa built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This religious site is one of the most iconic landmarks in Thimphu and is revered by locals and visitors alike. The stupa is adorned with elaborate carvings and paintings that depict the Buddhist teachings.

After visiting the National Memorial Chorten, you should head to Kuensel Phodrang, where a massive statue of Buddha Shakya Muni is being constructed. The statue, which is 169 feet tall, is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and is set against the stunning backdrop of the Thimphu Valley. From the base of the statue, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

In the afternoon, you can explore the Zorig Chusum, also known as the Institute of Arts and Crafts. This institute was established to preserve and promote the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, including painting, sculpture, woodworking, and metalwork. You can observe the students as they learn these traditional crafts, and even try your hand at some of them.

Finally, make sure to visit the Craft Market for Religious items and souvenir shopping. This market is located near the Zorig Chusum and offers a wide range of handmade items, including prayer flags, traditional Bhutanese clothing, jewelry, and other souvenirs. You can also find religious items such as Buddhist statues, prayer wheels, and thangka paintings, which make for great keepsakes from your visit to Bhutan.

Day 11: Thimphu – Punakha

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Paro
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

After breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to the Punakha valley, the former capital of Bhutan, through the Dochula Mountain pass that stands at an elevation of 3,140 meters. Here, you will visit the Druk Wangyel Chhorten, a newly built landmark housing 108 Khangzang Namgyal Chhortens, built by the Queen Mother for the peace and stability of the country.

Next, visit the Chhimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, located just outside of Punakha. The temple is situated amidst verdant rice paddies and manicured mustard fields, and offers a charming complex where visitors can be greeted by a huge black and gold prayer wheel. Your guide will enlighten you on the unique rituals steeped in legends of the eccentric ‘Divine Madman’ Lama Drukpa Kunley, whose teachings of Buddhism had humorous songs and innuendos. Admire the elaborately hand-painted drawings that adorn the walls, showcasing dramatic interpretations of phalluses. The temple is a pilgrimage site, particularly for childless couples who seek blessings with a 10-inch bone, ivory, and wood phallus, while young babies are named using inscriptions on bamboo slips. You can expect to see intricate charms in various sizes, colorfully shaded with comic illustrations and abstract art with inspirational quotes.

Then, embark on a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten in the serene countryside around Punakha. The trail is surrounded by terraced paddies, farmhouses, and pine forests, alongside a babbling creek, and crossed by a suspension bridge over Mo Chhu. The Khamsum Yulley Chorten was built by the Queen Mother in dedication to the King, country, and for the well-being of all sentient beings in the universe. The stupa, based on the instructions in the Buddhist Holy Scriptures and the teachings of leader Lama Sönam Zangpo, features large kitschy installations of Vajrakilaya, a wrathful deity, encased in glass boxes, smaller statues of other deities, and numerous yab-yum figurines along the inner walls, as well as a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha.

Finally, cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, measuring 180 meters in length. From the bridge, you can get a spectacular view of the Po Chhu river (male river) and the valley. This makes for an ideal location for a photoshoot with a stunning background while enjoying the cool and breezy vibes from the suspension bridge.

Day 12: Punakha – Gangtey

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Paro
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Embark on a 45-minute walk to a chorten or stupa at Nyizergang before visiting the impressive Punakha Dzong, built in 1637, and located between the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Serving as the seat of government until the mid-1950s, the Punakha Dzong is also the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and the Central Monastic Body.

After a delicious lunch, journey to Gangtey with a stop en route to visit the Wangdiphodrang Dzong, built in 1638 and situated at the confluence of Mo Chu and Tsang Chu rivers. Although destroyed by fire, the dzong is currently under reconstruction.

Day 13: Gangtey – Paro

Accommodation: NA
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

On our way back to Paro, we traverse the enchanting Wangdue valley, renowned as the “valley of ornamental speech.” The local inhabitants possess a remarkable talent for crafting verses that are not only elegant but also imbued with deep meaning. Wangdue Dzong, the former governing center of this valley, unfortunately fell victim to a devastating fire. Nevertheless, the determined efforts to rebuild it from scratch are underway. Our journey through this valley is a sight to behold, as we witness the breathtaking beauty of ever-changing landscapes. Each step unveils a tapestry of alpine flowers in a myriad of shades and hues, adding to the splendor of the surroundings.

Day 14: Departure from Paro International Airport

Accommodation: NA
Meals: breakfast

After breakfast, proceed to Paro International Airport for your scheduled departure flight.