Bhutan – Jomolhari Trek

An adventurous camping trek to the base of Mt Chomolhari passing through scattered hamlets & high alpine pastureland

Duration: 8 nights 9 days camping trek & 6 nights 7 days cultural tour with hotel stay

Recommended Seasons: The ideal time for this trek is April to June and September to November.

Trek Grade: Strenuous (involves crossing 4,100 meter high mountain pass)

One of the most popular trekking routes, this trek passes through scattered hamlets and farmland, into a deep and richly forested valleys, which leads to a high alpine pastureland where yak herders graze their animals. One of the salient features of this trek is the spectacular view of Mount. Jomolhari from Jomolhari base camp at Jangothang. The Jomolhari trek offers a taste of great variety of Bhutanese landscape.

Itinerary for Jomolhari Trek

Day 1: Arrive Paro by Flight
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in entire Himalayas. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills from Kolkatta, the journey offers magnificent views and an exciting descent into the Kingdom. Bhutan’s first gift, one disembarks from the aircraft is the cool, clean and rejuvenating mountain air. After immigration formalities and baggage collection, warmly received by our representative and afterwards transfer to the hotel.

The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates within itself a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, National Museum and the country's only airport. Mount. Chomolhari (7,314m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial water plunge through deep gorges to form Pa Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom producing a bulk of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Afternoon visit Rinpung Dzong, which has a long and fascinating history. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. The approach or exit to the Dzong is also through a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. A walk through the bridge, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. Rinpung Dzong is also the venue of Paro Tshechu, held once a year in the spring.
Evening an exploratory walk around Paro main street, visiting local shops lined on both sides of the road.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 2: Paro
After breakfast, drive to the base of Drukgyel Dzong, which is currently under restoration. On a clear day, there is fascinating view of Mount. Chomolhari (7314m) from the village below this ruined fortress.
Later take a short drive to Satsam Chorten (trail head point) for a walking excursion to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Lhakhang) (approx. 5-hour round trip walk). This most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries is perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress, and meditated at this place, hence the monastery is also called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site, which has long been recognized as a most sacred place, was visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646, the religious and temporal ruler of Bhutan. It is a place of pilgrimage which Bhutanese try to visit at least once in a lifetime. In April 1998 a fire had severely damaged the main structure of the building but now it has been fully restored to its original grandeur.

Later visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries of the Kingdom associated with the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 3: Paro – Shana Zam – Thongdu Zam, Distance: 8km, approx. 3 / 4-hour walk, Ascent: 500m, Descent: 200m, Camp Altitude: 3,150m
Morning after breakfast, visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum, holding fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings, handicrafts, masks, costumes, armour and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. The visit will provide an insight into the rich and unique cultural heritage and tradition of Bhutan.
Then drive north of Paro valley till the Drukgyal Dzong, the ruined fortress which is currently under restoration. From here, we drive for another hour or so along the rough farm road to Shana Zam (2,850m). Then commences the trek gradually walking up the valley following Pa Chhu river’s bends into Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park to camp at Thongdu Zam.

Overnight camp at Thongdu Zam (Altitude, 3,150m)

Day 4: Thongdu Zam – Soi Thangthangkha, Distance: 20km, approx. 7 / 8-hour walk, Ascent: 770m, Descent: 10m, Camp Altitude: 3,610m
The trail again follows the Pa Chhu (Paro River), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. After crossing a bridge to the left bank of the river, we stop for a hot lunch. Then we continue along the river, climbing upwards through rhododendron forests and crossing the river once more before reaching our campsite.

Overnight camp at Soi Thangthangkha (Altitude 3,610m).

Day 5: Soi Thangthangkha - Jangothang, Distance: 19km, approx. 6-hour walk, Ascent: 480m, Camp Altitude: 4,080m
The path ascends for a while till you reach the army camp. We then follow the river above the tree line, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Hot lunch is served at a yak herder’s camp. A short walk from here into the valley will takes us to our campsite at Jangothang (4,080m). From here, the views of Mount. Chomolhari and Jichu Drake are superb.

Overnight camp at Jangothang (Altitude 4,080m).

Day 6: Jangothang Halt
The rest day in Jangothang provides plenty of possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow-capped mountains such as Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. There are good chances to spot some blue sheep on the upper slopes of the valley. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area. There are good short hiking trails in three directions. Jomolhari and its subsidiary mountain chains lie directly west, Jichu Drake to the north and there are a number of unclimbed peaks to the east.

Overnight camp at Jangothang (Altitude 4,080m).

Day 7: Jangothang – Lingshi, Distance: 18km, approx. 7 / 8-hour walk, Camp Altitude: 4,000m
The trail follows the stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right bank. We now start our climb up to the first ridge, enjoying breathtaking view of Mt. Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tsrim Khang. The trail then takes us across a fairly level valley floor until the climb to the Nyele-la (4,700m). We descend gradually from the pass to our campsite at Lingshi (4,000m), enjoying the panoramic view of the mountain peaks and Lingshi Dzong as we walk.

Overnight camp at Lingshi (Altitude 4,000m)

Day 8: Lingshi - Shodu, Distance: 22km, approx. 8 / 9-hour walk, Ascent: 940m, Descent: 920m, Camp Altitude: 4,080m
The Laya – Gasa route leaves the Jomolhari trek route here. Our trail climbs up towards a small white chorten on a ridge above the camp, then turns south up the deep Mo Chu river valley. The trail stays on the west side of this largely treeless valley, climbing steeply a short distance above the Mo Chu. It then crosses the river and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli-la pass (4,820m). On a clear day, you can see Mt.Jomolhari, Gangchhenta, Tserim Khang and Masang Gang from this pass. Descend alongside a stream to a rock shelter in the cliff face, and then continue on downstream till reaching Shodu (4,100m), where we will camp in a meadow with a chorten in it.

Overnight camp at Shodu (Altitude 4,100m)

Day 9: Shodu - Barshong, Distance: 16km, approx. 6-hour walk, Ascent: 250m, Descent: 670m, Camp Altitude: 3,710m
We are now back at the tree line, and out path follows the course of the Thimphu Chu (river), descending through rhododendron, juniper and mixed alpine forests. There are stunning views of rocky cliff faces and waterfalls along the way. We stop at the riverside for a hot lunch. Then the trail takes us gradually upwards to the ruins of Barshong Dzong near which we camp for the night.

Overnight camp at Barshong (Altitude 3,710m).

Day 10: Barshong – Dolam Kencho, Distance: 15km, approx. 5-hour walk, Ascent: 290m, Descent: 640m, Camp Altitude: 3,320m
The trail descends gently through a dense forest of rhododendron, birch and conifers, then drops steeply to meet Thimphu Chh (river). Then the trail runs along the left bank of the river, climbing over ridges and descending into gullies where side stream runs down into the river. The final stage of the trail climbs around a cliff face high above the Thimphu Chu river, coming out onto pastureland where we camp for the night.

Overnight camp at Dolam Kencho (Altitude 3,320m).

Day 11: Dolam Kencho – Dodena - Thimphu, Distance: 8km, approx. 3-hour walk, Ascent: 5000m, Descent: 930m
The trail winds in and out of side valleys above Thimphu Chhu, making a long ascent through a forest of conifers and high-altitude broadleaf species to a pass at 3,510m. The trail then drops steeply to the river and following it southward to the roadhead at Dodena, (2,600m). The transport meets us here, and we drive to Thimphu.
On arrival, in Thimphu check-into the hotel. The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. With the population of about 1,00,000 it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light.

Later in afternoon walk around National Memorial Chorten, a large white structure crowned with a golden spire. It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. This is the most ideal spot to interact with locals who throng in large numbers to circumambulate the chorten, whirl the large red prayer wheels and pray at a small shrine inside the gate. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.

Afterwards take a stroll around Thimphu main street and market area.

Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m).

Day 12: Thimphu
Morning after breakfast, drive to see the iconic gigantic Buddha Dordenma (Vajra seated), the world’s largest sitting bronze statue. Majestically situated at Kuenselphodrang, it is an object of great veneration to all sentient beings. The land at Kuenselphodrang measuring 145 acres was gifted to Monks Body by His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan. The Park conserves 798.4 acres of forest area that surrounds the Buddha Dordenma statue. Dedicating it to the 60th birth anniversary celebration of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, His Holiness the Je Khenpo consecrated the 201 feet tall Buddha Dordenma statue at the Kuenselphodrang on 24th September 2015.

After this insightful visit drive to Textile Museum, established in 2001 under the royal patronage of Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck. The museum is managed by the Department of Culture, Ministry of Home & Cultural Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan. Exhibitions here introduce the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by women and men.

Institute for Zorig Chusum, commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School is an important learning center that offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills taught at the school.

Located below the main town, Centenary Farmers Market popularly known as Weekend market is a pleasant, colourful & delightful place to mingle with locals. Farmers come from all over the country to sell their farm products in this market. Also available here are the handicrafts and artifacts, to purchase.

Then visit Changangkha Lhakhang, one of the ancient temples in Thimphu established on a site chosen by Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, the founder of Drukpa lineage in Bhutan. The central statue here is Chenrezig in a manifestation with 11 heads. From temple courtyard, there is fascinating view of Thimphu valley.
Conclude the sightseeing of the day with visit of Trashichhoedzong that has been the seat of the government since 1952 and presently houses the throne room and offices of His Majesty the King, the Secretariat and the Ministries of Home affairs and Finance. The dzong is located close to Thimphu town, next to the banks of the Wang Chhu River. It is an impressively large structure, surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens.

Evening free to explore the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts Bazaar, to browse through example of Bhutan's fine traditional arts constituting hand-woven textiles, thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery, interesting items made from local materials.

Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)

Day 13: Thimphu – Dochu La - Punakha (75km, approx. 3-hour drive)
After breakfast drive to Punakha across Dochu-la pass (3,088m/ 10,130 ft) stopping here to take in the view and admire the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m), Kangphugang (7,170 m), Zongphugang (7, 060 m), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana - finally Gangkar puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,570m.

Afternoon visit Punakha Dzong. Also known as ‘The Palace of Great Bliss’, Punakha Dzong was built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region. The Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s history and on 17 December 1907, the first King of Bhutan Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk, was crowned here. Damaged by six catastrophic fires, an earthquake and once by flood, the Dzong has been fully restored by the fourth King. Dzongchung (or the little Dzong), built in 1328 by saint Ngagi Rinchen can still be seen opposite the main Dzong.

Thereafter a short walking excursion to Chimi Lhakhang:
The Chimi Lhakhang (temple), situated on a round hillock in the centre of Punakha valley near Lobesa, was built in 1499 by the 14th Drukpa hierarch, Ngawang Choegyel, after the site was blessed by the maverick saint Drukpa Kuenley who in the late 15th century used humour, songs and outrageous behaviour to dramatise his teachings and owing to this also known as ‘Divine Madman’. The Lhakhang is situated about 10 km from centre of Punakha town near Sopsokha village, from where a 20-minute walk through fields of mustards and rice, leads to a hillock that is the site of temple. Prayer flags are lined all along the road from the tiny village hamlet known as Yowakha, along a stream to the monastery. All houses in the village are decorated with paintings of phalluses on their exterior walls. The lama Kuenley had called the hillock where the monastery exists as the breast of a woman because of its round shape.

Overnight at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m)

Day 14: Punakha – Dochua La pass - Paro (125km, approx. 4-hour drive)
After breakfast, continue another fascinating journey towards Paro, en route visiting Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses of the country, built in 1629. Legend associated with dzong’s construction mention that the fortress was built to subdue a demon that was harassing travellers to this region. The most noteworthy artistic feature of this dzong is the series of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.
Then drive onto Paro, on the way taking a photo stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro & Thimphu rivers.

Traversing onward, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to 13th century saint Thangthong Gyalpo, who is famously known as iron bridge builder in Bhutan. The temple is located across the river and in order to reach the temple one need to cross an iron bridge, one of the few remaining of the many that Thangthong Gyalpo built. Crossing the traditional iron bridge with its swaying and undulating movements is quite an experience.

Evening for shopping or at leisure in Paro city centre.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 15:  Depart Paro
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flight to onward destination. Our representative will help you with exit formalities and bid you farewell.