Snowman Trek

Snowman Trek

Duration: 24 Days

Snowman Trek

Duration: 24 Days

Overview

The snowman trek is by far the most challenging and strenuous trek in Bhutan but offers unparalled views of the entire Lunana district. You will pass through remote snow filled trails and mountain passes with extreme weather making this the ultimate challenge in Bhutan. Long hikes, steep climbs and rugged paths await as you pass through pristine lakes, desert like plateaus and powerful rivers to explore the least developed region of the country. Although extremely rewarding, this trek is only recommended for those in excellent physical condition with previous trekking experience.

Trip Facts

Destination: Bhutan
Activities: Trekking
Duration: 21 + Days
Region: Bhutan
Best Season: Spring / Summer / Autumn
Group Size: 02+ Pax

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival at Paro

After arriving from your scenic mountain flight to Para, you will be greeted by a friendly representative of Good Karma Trekking who will take you directly to your hotel. After you get settled in, we will take an afternoon visit to the National Museum of Bhutan known as Ta-Dzong. The museum offers tremendous insight into the tradition and history of the Bhutanese people and government as it has changed throughout the years. We then continue to the Paro Dzong which serves as the administrate center for the district to explore the beautiful architecture of the city before having welcome drink and dinner in Paro.

Day 2 Paro Sightseeing

After breakfast we will take a 3-hour morning hike to visit the holy Taktsang Monastery. The peaceful hike offers some stunning views of the city and surrounding lowland. After resting at the viewpoint we continue to the actual monastery to learn more about the religious practices of the region while observing the daily life and practices of the local monks. This “tiger nest” monastery is one of the holiest in the region and a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. We will then hike back to Paro taking time to explore the charming city before returning to the hotel for the evening.

Day 3 Paro to Punakha

We will drive to Dochula for lunch at the Dochula Pass offering views of the Himalayan peaks contrasted by the greenery found below. We will begin with a morning visit to the ancient capital city of Punakha built in 1637 and known for its heritage and strong fort walls.

Day 4 Punakha to Damji via Tashithang

We continue along the river passing though a diverse forest home to many local flowers including orchids and rhododendrons. We will stop for lunch before moving up to Damji village to make camp for the evening.

Day 5 Damji to Gasa

We move along a meandering path through a dense orchid forest offering plenty of indigenous flora and fauna. We will arrive in the evening to the village Gasa known for its healing natural hot springs visited by locals and travelers alike. After a dip in the healing water we will take a steep 2-hour climb to Gasa Dzong.

Day 6 Gasa to Chamsa

After breakfast we will explore the ancient dzong built to protect from regional invaders. We then move along a steep path to the Bele La pass through a bamboo and juniper forest. After crossing the path we will continue a short downhill trail to our camp at Chamsa.

Day 7 Chamsa to Laya

We continue uphill along the Mo Chu River passing along several quaint villages home to a range of different ethnicities. We continue through a juniper and fir forest before reaching Laya, which is home to an army-training base helping prepare local soldiers to defend the mountainous regions of Bhutan.

Day 8 Rest day at Laya

We will take time to further explore Laya while chatting with the local people who are known for their hospitality. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea while watching the local people perform their customs, and farm the fields while immersing yourself in the daily life of the traditional hill people.

Day 9 Laya to Rodophu

We re-pass the army camp before continuing along the river before taking lunch. We then continue our strenuous climb through a rapidly changing landscape on the way to Rodophu where we will camp for the night.

Day 10 Rhodophu to Tarina

The longest and most strenuous day of our journey begins with a 5 o’clock climb to Tsimola offering a beautiful sunrise view of Lunana, Chomolhari and Jichu Drake. We then continue along a flat path before climbing to the Gangla Karchung La pass situated at over 5,000 meters. The blustery pass offers excellent panoramic views of Himalayan giants including Masagang, Tsendegang and Teri Gang. We then take a long gradually descending trail into the Tarina Valley where we will camp under tranquil the star light sky.

Day 11 Tarina to Wache

We take a relatively easy trail following the river down the valley before stopping for lunch. We then continue to climb along the valley to the traditional village of Woche home to the ethnic hill people known for their traditional farming methods.

Day 12 Woche to Lhedi

We begin the day passing through a juniper and fir covered forest before climbing through rhododendron bushes to reach the Keche La Pass situated at 4,480 meters. After pausing to admire the views, we take a downhill trail along the river stopping at several pristine vantage points to view to Table Mountain before reaching Lhedi Village.

Day 13 Lhedi to Thanza

We continue to follow the river while slowly rising to the hospitable Choejong Village. After lunch we will visit the old fort before passing a wide yak-herding valley on the way to Thanza.

Day 14 Rest day at Thanza

We have a free day to explore the traditional town of Thanza while learning more about the customs and religious traditions of the local people. We can also explore the surrounding areas and arrange a trip to see the mountain lakes a few hours walk from the village.

Day 15 Thanza to Tshochena

We will take an early breakfast and continue our long hike to Tshochena. We will climb over three different summits including Jaze La at an elevation of 5,050 meters before continue down a shorter trail to make camp next to Tshochena Lake.

Day 16 Tshochena to Jichu Dramo

We follow an up and down trail passing through several scenic vantage points and snow-capped peaks before crossing the Loju pass at 4,940 meters. We then take a short hike to our campsite destination for an evening of relaxation.

Day 17 Jichu Drama to Chukarpo

We will continue to the highpoint of our hike at 5,140 meters along the Zoe La Pass. After celebrating our ascent and taking some time to enjoy the view, we continue down to Chukarpo to make camp for the evening.

Day 18 Chukarpo to Thampe Tsho

We make a long downhill hike along the river before continuing uphill to Um Tso, which is rumored to be a treasure filled lake created by the gods. We will thus take time to explore a few of the sacred temples surrounding the lake before making camp near for the night.

Day 19 Thampe Tsho to Maurothang

We continue to travel along the lake for a few hours before reaching a steep pass where we will climb to a height of 4,230 meters. We then continue through a rhododendron forest to the traditional yak pasture of Maurothang.

Day 20 Maurothang to Sephu

We continue to follow the trail along Nikka Chu through a bamboo forest before continue through a series of fields to Sephu where we will ride to a nearby village and rest for the evening taking time to celebrate the end of our trek.

Day 21 Sephu to Wangdue

Today we will explore the historical Wangdue fort which has protected Bhutan from invaders for centuries. After admiring the architecture of the fort, we will take a hike to the monastery of the Divine Madman to learn more about the traditional religious practices of the region.

Day 22 Wangdue to Thimphu

We will take some time in the morning to explore Wangdue before continuing by bus to the capital city of Thimphu. We will take time to explore the ancient town visiting important religious sites, monasteries and the National Memorial Chorten before returning to the hotel for the evening.

Day 23 Thimphu to Paro

After a few hours of leisure time in the morning we will continue our trip by driving back to Paro along a scenic route along the Wangchuck and Pa-Chu rivers. We will continue through several scenic traditional towns and chortens before passing over a large bridge and arriving on Paro.

Day 24 Departure

Depending on your flight time you may be able to see a few more attractions before departing approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight time. You will be escorted to the airport with a representative from Good Karma trekking staff. After our farewells, you will have plenty of time to plan your next adventure with Good Karma, as one time is never enough.

Includes

Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus (all airport transfers).
Standard government approved accommodation (in twin share rooms) for the duration of tour.
licensed English speaking Bhutanese Tour Guides.
All Monument /Museum sightseeing tours, entrance Fees as per itinerary.
All meals fixed breakfast, lunch & dinner with Tea and Coffee while remaining in Bhutan
Government Royalty (which is 35% of $250) this goes to the country's health & education projects.
Private Transport & Driver within Bhutan. (Imported Prado's, Micro Buses & Toyota Coaster Buses)
Toyota 4 X 4 luggage vans & light trucks for group travel
All our government taxes.
Tourist service charge, vat.
Official expense
Bhutan Visa Fees and Visa Processing assistance

Excludes

Bottled/alcoholic/cold drinks, room service and al a cart meals.
Your travel insurance (compulsory).
International airfares and airport departure tax.
Photography charges (if and when applicable).
Items of a personal nature such as laundry.
Personal Equipment.
Tips to guides, restaurants, hotel lobby. (Tipping is expected.)
Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.

Trip Note

View FAQs

Travellers Reviews

Richard Corbett

3 weeks ago -

From the moment we stepped outside Kathmandu airport we knew we were in good hands. Raj and his professional team had taken care of everything. Our trek to Everest Base Camp is one we will remember for a long time. From accomodation, to meals, guide and porters. Everything went smoothly. Even the tricky weather in Lukla didn't hold us up too much. The tour of Kathmandu was great and we especially enjoyed the opening dinner that Raj planned for us.

I highly recommend Good Karma Trekking.

We are planing to return to Nepal and trek the Annapurna Circuit. We will definitely book with Raj and Good Karma Trekking again.

Agata Wilk

3 weeks ago -

Best travel agency, very helpful and friendly staff. They offer great possibilities for trekking, excursions, help take care of all permits. Great company, wonderful trip, friendship for life. I would recommend!
    

Grant Jasiunas

2 years ago -

    Booked my first trip to Nepal with Good Karma after some recommendations on Tripadvisor. From my first email I was impressed with the level of attention I received and how flexible they were (something I couldn't get with several other other companies I and contacted). Had a great trip including sightseeing in Kathmandu and trekking to Everest base camp, and everything went extremely smoothly (except for the weather). Just returned from my second trip there and already planning my third. Its an amazing country, and Raj and the Good Karma team made it a great experience. Happy to answer any questions people have.

Jim Duff

2 years ago -

Kind, attentive, honest, dedicated attention is awaiting on your travels with Good Karma. I went to the Everest Base Camp(14 days), Bhutan (4 days) and the Chitwan game preserve (3 days) with them and was very well treated at a great price.

I recommend them for travel in Nepal under reliable conditions.

I will be glad to answer any inquiries on their subject.

Laxmi Prasad Kandel

a year ago -

    A perfect travel partner on the foothills of Hiamalayas. I can proudly recommend my near and dear to Good Karma. Thanks a lot Good karma for excellent services on our trek.

Hexe Ella

2 years ago -

    I have traveled in many countries, but my experience in Nepal was special, thanks to Raj and his team who organized the exceptional way to all desired goals in this expedition which I had in Nepal and Tibet this autumn. I hope with all my heart to revisit again because I really miss Nepal. I started learning Hindi language since a few days.

So, Raj, Biji, I feel like I will visit you again! There are a lot of places that I have not seen yet! GOOD KARMA TREKKING is the best Agency for me!

Lauren Hsu

2 years ago -

    Raj was knowledgeable and more than accommodating during our travels. We used Good Karma Trekking to book a trek to Annapurna, do white water rafting, and visit the elephants. It was one of the best trips I've had in my life and I've been to over 50 countries now. I would strongly recommend them to anyone who is traveling to Nepal and seeking a professional and friendly travel agency

Samuel Quiroga

2 years ago -

    BOOKING WITH KARMA: I booked a one-person tour to the Annapurna Circuit during the off season in August. During my inquiries with various trekking companies, Raj from Good Karma replied promptly and was always making sure that my needs were met before, during and after the trek. He was very flexible with whatever mode of transportation I desired to use even if it was just a couple of days in advance (including a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu with two days notice) . THE TOUR: The tour itself was amazing. True, the Annapurna Circuit can be done with no guide. But Raj provide me with none other than a Sherpa guide would allowed for easy communication with locals and got the best rooms and meals in all the lodges. He also knew where the shortcuts are and made sure my safety was a priority (specially with altitude sickness). TRANSPORTATION : Always keep in mind that Nepal is not the most developed nation in terms of infrastructure and road systems. I highly recommend getting a private vehicle. The drivers that Raj provides are some of the best I've seen even though they drive like maniacs. I felt relatively safe compared to a tourist bus/local bus. These are worse and the safety standards are very low OVERALL: I highly recommend this tour company. Make sure you communicate with Raj constantly so he knows what your needs are.

Paul Greco

2 years ago -

    Had an unforgettable experience trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Good Karma in 2012. Nabraj and his team are knowledgable, passionate and great hosts, and are genuine in providing the best experience possible. They went above and beyond to cater to our interests and provided outstanding hospitality. Nabraj has become a good friend since, we are regularly in touch and I look forward to joining Good Karma on a trek again soon!

Razvan Marc

2 years ago -

I worked with Good Karma Trekking a few years ago when they organized a trip through Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan for me and a group of almost 30 people. They were the best choice for our trip. The hotels they booked, the accommodation, the vehicles used for our transportation were all top class. Raj and his team really know their country (and the neighboring countries) and are able to custom made programs that suit each and every individual on a group, no matter the size. We particularly enjoyed the trips around Kathmandu valley, up to Nagarkot, down in the jungle in Chitwan and resting at the foot of Anapurna in Pokhara. Raj even organized some trips that were not in the initial schedule and which were greatly appreciated - for instance the visit to Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu.

I was also on the group that took a tour of Tibet with Good Karma Trekking. Everything went smooth, from crossing the border into China to altering the program so we could stay at a lower altitude when some of our colleagues felt sick.

For all of us on that trip Raj also became a good friend and we kept in touch ever since.

Whenever I hear someone thinking of visiting Nepal I always recommend Good Karma Trekking. I am also sure that next time myself and any other member of the group would want to go to the Himalayan region Good Karma Trekking would be our first choice. 

Good job, Good Karma Trekking!

Dj Hewey

2 years ago -

I went on a one month trip to Nepal with Good Karma Trekking, and I must say it was really amazing! Well worth the time and the cost of traveling there! Part of what made my experience so wonderful was the guide that I had. His name is Raj Ghimire, and he is the sole proprietor of GOOD KARMA TREKKING LTD. He is a truly honest guy, with a very kind heart, and I believe that he would give you the BEST Nepal experience, no matter where in the country you want to travel. When my friends and I were over there, he treated us like family (no, I'm not exaggerating), and I still stay in touch with him. His rates are GREAT too! And if you need porters, tea house reservations, or a personal driver to show you Kathmandu or Chitwan Park, he did ALL of these arrangements for us.

Go with Raj, he will take care of you!

Marina Vasile

2 years ago -

    This was literally the best experience I've had with a travel company anywhere in the world. They are efficient, culturally smart and very friendly. They even went out of their way to help with issues that were not necessarily part of our contract. I will definitely trust them to organize any trip for me in the future.

mike francey

3 years ago -

    Good Karma organized everything for my trip including city tours, travel, hotels and trekking. They were very professional and helpful creating a trip that included what i wanted to see and not just the standard itinerary. The owner Raj even helped bargain for lower prices on souvenirs and trekking equipment while i was in Kathmandu. He also showed me some of his favorite restaurants and some of the local specialties and offered me some wild honey from his home town. The trek went great and the guide was very knowledgeable about the trails and flora and fauna of the himalayas. I have done a trip with abovethehimalays before and the service and price of Good Karma was much better. I would suggest this company to anyone looking for an authentic experience.

Szilágyi Palkó Pál

2 years ago -

    We had a great experience with Good Karma Trekking in Kathmandu, Nepal. Raj, the owner of the company, was very helpful. He has an excellent knowledge about the Kathmandu area, and generally about Nepal. He is more than a usual travel agency, passionate about his work, and about promoting the Nepal sights. I am sure that we will use his services again when we return to Nepal, hopefully soon.

Bijaya Ghimire

2 years ago -

Your Good Karma always brings you upto Good Karma trekking. Leave everything on their hand and simply discover your Good Karma. They are perfect to plan your Nepal, Tibet, India and Bhutan program.

Michel Wasylyszyn

2 years ago -

    I met Raj in Kathmandu through a mutual friend and I've been amazed by his hospitality and generosity. They gave me all the informations I needed about the transportation, treks and more! Thank you for your kindness and your support and I really hope to meet you again! Cheers

Melissa John

2 years ago -

    Fantastic experience with Good Karma Trekking. Always keen to help and to make sure you are well taken care of in Nepal. Would not hesitate to recommend them to friends and family!

czabaka

2 years ago -

    I was In Nepal last year and I really enjoyed the time. I must say that the service offered by Good Karma Trekking is excellent. I would recommend it to all, if you went to Nepal.

Alvin Obed

2 years ago -

    I used Good Karma Trekking for a first trip to Nepal in Nov 2011 and from the moment of contact the trip went very smoothly. I would highly recommend this company and would be happy to be contacted independently to provide a review.

Oleg D

2 years ago -

    A good company, thoroughly recommended. Their 16 day tour is ideal for first time visitors. Reasonably priced tours.

Naoise Hart

5 years ago -

 Went to the Everest Base Campo with them its was fantastic

Daniel San Martín

2 years ago -

    En 2012 tuve el agrado de conocer a Nabraj Ghimire en Katmandú. Su ayuda en una país desconocido me sirvió de mucho. Es una persona honesta y desinteresada que realiza su trabajo con vocación.

Yongin Kwon

2 years ago -

    믿을만한 친구가하는 일입니다. 네팔에서 가격차이 그리 심하지 않습니다. 가장 싼 곳을 찾기보다, 안전함과 신뢰도, 그리고 만족도를 높이세요. :) It's great to do the trekking nad!!! :)

Madhu Sudhan Subedi

in the last week -

Cezar D

2 years ago -

Raj Ghimire

a week ago -

Excellence Review from Trip Adviser

More Reviews

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Snowman Trek

Snowman Trek

Overview

Trip Facts

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival at Paro

Day 2 Paro Sightseeing

Day 3 Paro to Punakha

Day 4 Punakha to Damji via Tashithang

Day 5 Damji to Gasa

Day 6 Gasa to Chamsa

Day 7 Chamsa to Laya

Day 8 Rest day at Laya

Day 9 Laya to Rodophu

Day 10 Rhodophu to Tarina

Day 11 Tarina to Wache

Day 12 Woche to Lhedi

Day 13 Lhedi to Thanza

Day 14 Rest day at Thanza

Day 15 Thanza to Tshochena

Day 16 Tshochena to Jichu Dramo

Day 17 Jichu Drama to Chukarpo

Day 18 Chukarpo to Thampe Tsho

Day 19 Thampe Tsho to Maurothang

Day 20 Maurothang to Sephu

Day 21 Sephu to Wangdue

Day 22 Wangdue to Thimphu

Day 23 Thimphu to Paro

Day 24 Departure

Includes

Excludes

Trip Note

Travellers Reviews

Excellence Review from Trip Adviser

Extension Tours

Hotel Booking

Balthali Village hiking Tour

Champadevi Day Hike

Naudanda Hiking

Seti River Rafting

Kakani Hiking

Traditional Wedding

Vehicle Hiring

Dhampus Day Hike

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