Important treks in Bhutan

Jomolhari Trek

Jomolhari Trek is longer than the Jomolhari Loop – the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan. With altitude differences of 2,500m and nearly 5,000m it offers a wide range of landscapes, fauna and flora. The highlight of this trek is the spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari from Jomolhari Basecamp (Jangothang).

Day 01: Paro – Sharna Zampa– Thangthangkha

Distance: 22km (7-8hrs)

Elevation: 3,610mts / 11,844ft

Drive 2 hours from Paro town to Sharna which follows Paro Chhu passing beautiful meadows, paddy fields and impressive farm houses and after about hours you will reach the army post at Gunitsawa village. At the army check post your trek permit (provided by your tour operator) will be checked and endorsed. On this long day, the trail continues with 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. From here, If weather permits, you will have the first great view of Mt.Jumolhari.Overnight: Camp

 Day 02: Thangthangkha – Jangothang

 Distance: 19km (5-6hrs)

Elevation: 4,080mts / 13,386ft

This morning the trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley which widens into patches of alpine meadow and scanty growths of forest. You will cross an army checkpoint along the way and enjoy a spectacular view of high mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks. In this area yaks and their herder’s homes become a regular feature of the landscape. Passing the villages Soe, Takethang and Dangochang is another asset on this day. After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites of the Himalayas, you will again have a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari Overnight: Camp

Day 03: 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. Jangothang is a perfect environment for your acclimatization. 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 lay directly west, Jichu Drake to the north and there are a number of unclimbed peaks to the east.Overnight: Camp

 Day 04: Jangothang – Lingshi

Distance: 18km (7-8 hours)

Elevation: 3,800mts / 13,386ft

The trail follows the stream or half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right side. Start the climb up to the first ridge with a breathtaking view of Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshering Gang. Then Walk towards the valley, almost flat for a while, until the climb to the Ngye La pass at an altitude of 4,700m. After the pass, it is a gradual descent to the Lingshi camp, enjoying the panoramic view of the peaks and Lingshi DzongOvernight: Camp

Day 05: Lingshi – Shodu

Distance: 22km (8-9 hours)

Elevation: 4,080mts / 13,451ft

The Laya Gasa route leaves the Jhomolhari trek here. The trek route climbs towards a small white Chorten on a ridge above the camp, then turns south up the deep Mo Chhu valley. The trail stays on the west side of the largely treeless valley, climbing steadily a short distance above Mo Chhu. It then crosses the river, and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli La pass (5,220m). From the pass, on a clear day, you can see Jhomolhari, Gangchen Ta, Tshering Gang and Masang Gang.Overnight: Camp

Day 06: Shodu – Barshong

Distance: 16km (6-7 hours)

Elevation: 3,710mts / 12171ft

At this place, one comes back to tree line. The path follows Thimphu River, descending through rhododendron, juniper and other alpine forests. The view of the cliff facing rocks and waterfalls is stunning. Hot lunches will be served by the riverside. After lunch the trail gradually ascends to the ruins of riversides. After lunch follow the trail that gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong.Overnight: Camp

Day 07: Barshong – Dolam Kencho

 Distance: 15km (5-6hrs)

Elevation: 3,320mts / 10892ft

The trail descends down to the Thimphu Chhu river valley, through dense forests of rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples and bamboos and then ascends to pasture lands. The camp is in a meadow.Overnight: Camp

Day 8: Dolam Kencho – Dodena (Tango) – Thimphu

 Distance: 8km (4hrs)

Elevation: 2,300mts / 7,546ft

The trail continues through forested areas winding up and down and through a small pass. Langurs (monkeys) can be seen along the way. In Dodena, you will exit the Jigme Dorji National Park and reach the road head next to an impressive cantilever bridge. Drive to Thimphu City (25km/20 minutes) and check in to Hotel.