Destination
Bhutan
Region
Bhutan
Trip Grade
Grade 2: Moderate
Accommodation
Hotel
Total Distance
90 km/ 55 miles
Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Durations
11 days
Max. Altitude
4820m/15817ft
Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Group Size
above 1 pax
Best Season
March to May/sept to Nove
Activity per day
8 hr
Transportation
Hiking/Drive/flight
Trip Highlights
The Jomolhari trek in Bhutan is known for its stunning scenery, including views of Mount Jomolhari and other snow-capped peaks, diverse landscapes ranging from lush valleys to alpine meadows, and cultural encounters with Bhutanese people and their ancient traditions. Trekkers can also spot wildlife like blue sheep and takins, and experience the thrill of crossing high-altitude passes.
Spectacular Mountain Views: The trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari (7,326m), one of Bhutan's most sacred peaks, and other prominent mountains like Jichu Drake and Tshering Gang.
Diverse Landscapes: Trekking through thick pine forests, scattered hamlets, and alpine meadows, you'll experience a range of Bhutanese landscapes
Cultural Immersion: The trek provides opportunities to visit remote villages like Lingshi and Jangothang, interact with yak herders, and explore ancient monasteries and temples.
Wildlife Spotting: You might spot rare wildlife like blue sheep, takins, and possibly even snow leopards while trekking through Jigme Dorji National Park.
High-Altitude Passes: The trek includes challenging crossings of passes like Nylie La (4,830m) and Yeli La (4,820m), offering stunning panoramic views.
Camping Adventures: Enjoy camping in scenic locations, including the base of Mount Jomolhari, and by the serene Tshophu lakes.
Cultural Sites: Visit historical sites like the Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang) perched on a cliff, medieval fortresses (Dzongs), and other temples and monasteries.
Rural Villages: Pass through traditional Bhutanese villages with houses built in local architectural styles, offering a glimpse into rural life.
Variety of Flora: You'll encounter rhododendron, blue pine, birch, and other types of trees and vegetation throughout the trek.
The trek commences from the valley town of Paro and concludes at the modern city of Thimphu.
Learn about the ancient beliefs and myths surrounding various monasteries throughout the trek.
Enjoy walking by the rice terrace and millet field as you pass by small villages with traditionally built houses on the way to Shana.
Savor the beauty of the snowcapped Jomolhari mountain at a distance from your campsite at Thangthagkha.
Observe the way of life of the Bhutanese people in the small village of Sio, Takethang, and Dangochang.
Get a chance to spot birds like Fire-tailed Sunbird, White-throated Dipper, Yellow-billed Chough, and more.
Relish the panoramic views of mountains like Jichu Drake and Tshering Gang.
Walk beside the Pachu river in the first few days and Wang Chhu river through the last few days of the trek.
Walk past rhododendron, blue pine, birch, and conifers rich forest mostly throughout the trek.
Get a chance to spot the Langur monkeys on the trees in the Jigme Dorji National Park.
Trip Overview
The Jomolhari Trek encircles around Paro and Thimphu while touching the most rural settings in Bhutan. The trip sets its bar high from the time you set foot in the beautiful Paro Valley. On the first day of your arrival, you get a chance to intermingle with the lovely Bhutanese people as you walk the streets of Paro.
No trek to the Land of Thunder Dragon can complete without a visit to the most popular landmark, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, built in 1684. The trip not just gives you a chance to visit the Monastery sitting on the edge of the misty cliff but also introduces you to the legend of Guru Rimpoche. Not just a place of worship, the monastery is also a popular tourist destination in the present day. You can watch the monks engaging in meditation and continuing with their day-to-day chores.
The actual trek starts from a walk past the Drukgyal Dzong at Paro. The trail allows you to walk through the terrace and millet fields alongside the Pachu river and the apple orchards to Gunitsawa and eventually to Shana. Most of the campsites from hereon are nestled in between pine forests. The trek gets even more interesting and challenging as you head to Thangthangkha at 3750m, a sudden altitude change. The main highlights of this day are entirely the views of one of the highest mountains in the world, Jomolhari mountain (7326m/24,035ft), that first come to sight in this trek. This is one of the biggest attractions of the trek.
Thereon, the major attraction as you pass from Thangthangkha to Jangothang is the small villages of Sio, Takethang, and Dangochang. It is amazing to witness the way of life in those rural areas. You might even spot some fairly rare species of birds along the way. The next day is allocated for acclimatization. However, you can enjoy the nearby natural beauty by hike further upwards to get an even clear view of the surrounding Himalayas.
After one day of acclimatization and sightseeing of the nearby area in the campsite at Jangothang Base Camp, the trek passes through glacial moraine on the next day. As you move on, the panoramic views of Jichu Drake, Jomolhari, and Tshering Gang never leave your sight. This day is marked special as you cross the first high pass of the Jomolhari trek, Nylie La pass, at the altitude of 4830m. Reaching Lingshi campsite offers you a chance to view the Lingshi Dzong, housing the office of Drungpa.
From the serenity of Lingshi, the trail the next day leads to Shodu through the Mo Chhu valley. This day marks a special one as the trail reaches the second-high pass of Yeli La at4820m. You will feel a sense of joy to have successfully crossed the high pass with the strong cold mountain wind blowing all over you. After this triumph, the walk continues to Jimenameshing, followed by the campsite at Shodu.
Walking alongside the Wang Chhu river throughout the day gives you a sense of peace and serenity. Crossing wooden bridges, the trail takes a halt at Barshong campsite. The highlight of the trek is the ruins of the Barshong monastery, which is claimed to have been built around the time of Zhabdrung. Next on the trail is Dolam Kencho which is open pasture land. The journey towards Kencho is an interesting one as you walk through a dense forest of rhododendron, birch, and conifers. The Wang Chuu river stays a companion as you eventually reach your campsite.
As the trekking days gradually come to an end, the final attraction is most certainly the amazing sight of Langur monkeys hanging on the trees on the way towards the exit point of Jigme Dorji National Park, Dodena. The trek ends at Dodena, and a ride takes you to Thimphu, the economic center of Bhutan, where you spend a lovely evening strolling around the streets.
The entire trekking experience gives you a sense of gratification towards Bhutan for offering an experience of a lifetime. Nowhere in the world can you find this mystic, adventurous, and naturally rich place to explore. From Good Karma Trekking.
Detailed Itinerary
Your Jomolhari trek begins with a scenic flight to the valley town of Paro, Bhutan. Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan. Your wanderlust will only amplify as you observe the mesmerizing views of Paro Dzong and the snowcapped mountains from your window. Upon your arrival at Paro, our Bhutanese guide will pick you up at Good Karma Trekking , who will drive you to your hotel for your stay. You will be briefed about the entire Jomolhari trek by our guide after refreshment.
After having some lunch, you will visit Rimpung Dzong. Rimpung Dzong is a Buddhist monastery and fortress of the Drukpa Lineage dating back to the 17th century. The monastery stands for high value as it houses the district’s monastic body and the government administrative offices. You will cross a wooden bridge into Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred shrines.
Paro is a beautiful town with ancient architecture displayed in the buildings around the street. You should not miss out on walking through the streets of Paro as the sun goes down.
Overnight hotel in Paro.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,180m/10,433ft)
Today is a special day as you get to visit one of the most popular landmarks in Bhutan. The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery begins early in the morning after breakfast. On the hike to the monastery, you will find a forest of pine where you can hear the sounds of birds chirping and prayer flags fluttering.
The Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known locally as Paro Taktsang or Taktsang Palphug, is a mystical place sitting on the edge of a high cliff surrounded by mist. As per the mythical belief, Guru Rimpoche/Padmasambhava flew on the back of a tigress and identified the caves of the monastery as a place of solitude. It is believed that he then meditated for 3 months in this monastery. Padmasambhava is known to be the mystical tantric that introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. The monastery was built in 1684 by the Penlop of Paro and has since become a place of worship for Buddhist pilgrims. After the one-of-a-kind experience, you will head back to your hotel at Paro for an overnight stay.
Today morning, you will drive to Shana on unpaved road for about 17 km. Meet your trekking crews and then start the trek. On this long day, the trail goes through lots of small ups and downs. After going uphill through the river valley the valley finally narrows gradually to a mere path, which descends to a meadow where a camp will be set up at the altitude of 3750m. From here, if weather permits, you will have the first great view of Mt. Jumolhari.
Overnight campsite in Sio Thangthangkha.
Jangothang Base Camp at 4,050m.
Today the trek leads to Paro Chuu Valley. The trail passes through an alpine meadow and leads towards the forest. As you reach the army outpost, you’ll have to stop and register at the entry permits. The entry permit to Bhutan will be taken care of by your guide.
You walk beside the Pachu River and pass some small villages of Sio, Takethang, and Dangochang. This is one of the most special days of the trek as you reach the Jangothang Base Camp at 4,050m. The views of Mt. Jomolhari will keep you company as the sunsets. The unique flora and fauna found here are some of the points of attraction. You will hear the sweet sound of birds chirping. If you are lucky enough, you might even spot the Yellow-billed Chough, Fire-tailed Sunbird, White-throated Dipper, and Snow Patridge, to name a few. Views of snowcapped Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and the ravens are perhaps the highlight of today’s trek.
Overnight campsite in Jangothang.
On this day, you will stop at Jangothang and take a rest. There are a lot of small activities you can enjoy during this day. You can take a small hike around the nearby landscape or up to Tsophu Lake. All in all, the beauty of Jangothang is added by the Jomolhari, and Jichu Drake views from a distance. For a better view of Jomolhari, you can even trek a little further up. You can also check out the ruins of an old fortress nearby.
You might come across some blue sheep on the upper slopes of the valley. The Himalayan Rhubarb, Golden Eagles, and the Himalayan Blue Poppy- the national flower of Bhutan can be spotted. Rest on this day is necessary to acclimatize your body to the sudden change in altitude. Also, after the long days of trekking, this rest day is a blessing.
Overnight campsite in Jangothang.
Nylie La pass at 4830m/15848ft
On this day, you will be heading to Lingshi, which takes about 19 km. The trail begins with a steep climb above the base camp into glacial moraine. The sight of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake looks very different on this day. You will walk through a snowy path to Nylie La pass at 4830m. You are bound to experience a cold and swift wind coming straight from the mountains. From there, you will be introduced to a panoramic view of Tshering Gang at an altitude of 6789m.
The trek then gets a little tough as it descends to Lingshi campsite. From your campsite, the views of the majestic peaks and Lingshi Dzong is seen. Lingshi is a monastery that houses the office of the Drungpa. Nothing could be as serene as the views seen from there.
Overnight campsite in Lingshi.
Yeli La pass at the altitude of 4,820m/15,813ft.
Today you will be taking a long trek that takes about 7 hours and covers a distance of 15 km to reach Shodu. The trail starts with a decent climb upwards to a chorten on a ridge into the Mo Chhu valley. You will cross a river and ascend to the Yeli La pass at the altitude of 4,820m/15,813ft. The land is mainly deserted from thereon but offers views of the majestic snowcapped Jomolhari, Gangchen Ta, Tshering Gang, and Masangagng. The path becomes narrower hereon and reaches Jimenameshing.
The trail gradually descends to the campsite in a meadow as you reach Shodu. Many other treks also reach this destination as the trekking days come to an end since this is the main trail back to Thimphu. You can enjoy the rest of your day by having hot soup and enjoying yourself with other trekkers at your camp.
Overnight campsite in Shodu.
At this point, one returns to the tree line. The path follows the Thimphu River, descending through rhododendron, juniper, and other alpine forests. The view of the cliff-facing rocks and waterfalls is stunning. A hot lunch will be served riverside. After lunch, the trail gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong. This used to be a base supplying essentials to Lingzhi Dzong in ancient times. You will camp in Barshong at an altitude of 3600m.
Overnight campsite in Barshong.
After a hearty breakfast, you will walk half a kilometer, taking about 15 minutes, to reach the road point. Your car will be waiting here to take you to Thimphu, where you can celebrate your return to civilization with a refreshing shower at a comfortable hotel.
Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
Wake up early in the morning and set off for an exhilarating full day of sightseeing in Thimphu with a side visit to the famous King’s Memorial Chorten and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Explore the traditional arts and crafts unique to Bhutan at the School of Arts. Step into the peaceful world of Buddha point while relishing the stunning view of the Southern entrance of Thimphu.
Observe the national animal of Bhutan and explore flora and fauna at the Motithang Takin Preserve. Visit Tashichho dzong in the evening. Famous as the ‘Fortress of Glorious region,’ the fortress is a noteworthy masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. After sightseeing, drive toward to Paro which take 1 hour drive.
Overnight hotel in Paro.
Today marks the end of your interesting Jomolhari trek. We will bid you a farewell with a heavy heart after you are driven to the Paro International Airport. As you head home after boarding the flight, you are bound to reminisce the landmarks you visited in Paro, the monasteries along the trek, and the amazing views of the Himalayas.
You can remember Good Karma Trekking to plan another wonderful trip.
Cost Includes
- Bhutan Tourist Tariff Royalty & Visa fees.
- All private excursions and transfers in superior air-conditioned vehicle.
- Local English speaking trekking guide/tour leader.
- Cook and camp hand who will take care of camp chores and provide wholesome meals.
- Services of horsemen who will look after the yaks & ponies that transport luggage and camp gear.
- Experienced driver.
- Accommodation in carefully selected, highest standard government approved hotels & guesthouses.
- All meals in Bhutan.
- All entrance fees and permits.
Cost Excludes
- All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone and tips.
- Medical / Travel Insurance.
