Jomolhari Trek: Conquering the Trails of the Divine Mountain

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Trekking Itinerary

The Jomolhari Trek, longer than the Jomolhari Loop, offers a spectacular journey through varied landscapes, abundant flora and fauna, and breathtaking mountain views. The highlight of the trek is the awe-inspiring view of Mount Jomolhari from the basecamp at Jangothang.

Day 1

Gunitsawa Village to Sharna Zampa

Duration: 40 minutes
Camp Altitude: 2,850 meters
Your adventure begins at Gunitsawa Village. After passing through an army checkpost where your trek permit will be verified, you will proceed to your first campsite on the opposite side of the river, not far from the village.

Day 2

Sharna Zampa to Thangthangkha

Distance: 22 kilometers
Duration: 7-8 hours
Camp Altitude: 3,610 meters
Today's trek involves numerous small ascents and descents. As you progress uphill through the river valley, the trail narrows and eventually descends to a meadow, your campsite for the night. If the weather is clear, you'll catch your first stunning glimpse of Mount Jomolhari.

Day 3

Thangthangkha to Jangothang

Distance: 19 kilometers
Duration: 5-6 hours
Camp Altitude: 4,080 meters
In the morning, continue your journey up the Paro Chhu valley, which widens into alpine meadows with sparse forest patches. You'll cross an army checkpoint and enjoy panoramic views of high mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks. As you pass the villages of Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang, you'll encounter yaks and their herders. Your day ends at Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas, with another stunning view of Mount Jomolhari.

Day 4

Acclimatization Day at Jangothang

Take a rest day at Jangothang to acclimatize and explore. Enjoy day hikes with magnificent views of lakes and snow-capped peaks like Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Spot blue sheep on the upper slopes and explore various short hiking trails that offer different perspectives of the surrounding mountains.

Day 5

Jangothang to Lingshi

Distance: 16 kilometers
Duration: 6-7 hours
Camp Altitude: 3,800 meters
Begin your trek towards the last settlement in the valley and descend to the Paro Chhu. After passing Tshophu Lake (4,380 meters), you'll ascend steeply to Bhonte La pass (4,890 meters), the highest point on the trek. Descend to the Dhumzo Chhu river, pass the few houses of Soi Yaktsa (Dhumzo), and arrive at your campsite.

Day 6

Lingshi to Shodu

Distance: 22 kilometers
Duration: 8-9 hours
Camp Altitude: 4,080 meters
Today's trail climbs to Yelila pass (4,930 meters), where on clear days, you can enjoy superb views of Jomolhari, Tserimgang, and Masanggang. The descent from the pass to Shodu is steep, bringing you to your campsite for the night.

Day 7

Shodu to Barshong

Distance: 16 kilometers
Duration: 5-6 hours
Camp Altitude: 3,710 meters
Follow the Thimphu Chhu river, winding through rhododendron forests and past beautiful waterfalls. The valley narrows, and the path ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong, where you'll set up camp.

Day 8

Barshong to Dolam Kencho

Distance: 15 kilometers
Duration: 4-6 hours
Camp Altitude: 3,320 meters
Descend into the Thimphu Chhu river valley, traversing dense forests of rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples, and bamboos. Ascend to open pasture lands, where you'll camp in a picturesque meadow.

Day 9

Dolam Kencho to Dodena in Thimphu

Distance: 8 kilometers
Duration: 3-4 hours
Altitude: 500 meters ascent, 930 meters descent
The final leg of your trek winds through forested areas, offering occasional up and down sections and a small pass. Along the way, you may spot langurs (monkeys). Arrive at Dodena, exit Jigme Dorji National Park, and reach the roadhead next to an impressive cantilever bridge. Conclude your trek with a visit to the beautiful Cherri Monastery, a rewarding 40-minute hike from the bridge.

Day 10

Paro – Departure

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or a final stroll around Paro. Your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your departure, marking the end of a memorable 10-day journey through Bhutan. Safe travels!