Jomolhari Trek

Welcome to Bhutan

The flight into Paro offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and is considered one of the most beautiful mountain flights. After landing, enjoy the fresh mountain air before completing arrival formalities. You will then be greeted by our representative and driven to your hotel. If time allows, enjoy a brief visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong and a short introduction walk through Paro town. Paro is a peaceful valley town situated at 2,280 m along the Pa Chhu River and is known for its fertile land, history, and traditional Bhutanese culture. Paro Rinpung Dzong, dating back to 1645, is an outstanding example of Bhutanese architecture and serves as the administrative and monastic center of the district. Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, we begin the hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks in Bhutan. Dramatically perched on a sheer cliff about 900 meters above the Paro Valley, Taktsang is a sacred site where Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have meditated in the 8th century. The round-trip hike to the monastery typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on your fitness level, and rewards you with breathtaking views of pine forests, prayer flags, and the valley below.

9 Km | 4-5 Hours | 250M Ascent | Camp Alt 3110M

After enjoying a wholesome breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to Zangkipang where the trek begins. The trail is gentle and climbs gradually alongside the Paro River, passing through forests of pine and rhododendron. After about two to three hours of walking and crossing a few small streams, you will arrive at Shingkarap. This open area, with a single traditional house, is commonly used by mountain people as a resting and eating place during their journeys. A short walk further leads you to the campsite, located at an altitude of 3,110 meters.

15Km| 6-7 Hours | 650M Ascent | Camp Alt 3670M

The path stays close to the Paro River, rising and falling as it passes through pine, oak, and spruce trees. After crossing a small bridge, you will stop for a warm lunch on the left side of the river. The walk then continues uphill through rhododendron bushes, following the river once more. Crossing another bridge brings you to the campsite, which is set at 3,750 meters.

17Km | 4-5 Hours | 290M Ascent| Camp Alt 4040M

Today’s trek is shorter in distance but involves a steady climb as the trail rises above the forest line. From the campsite, you walk uphill to an army post and then continue along the river in open terrain with wide mountain views. The path can be muddy in places and passes a mani wall before reaching highland areas where yaks graze. Lunch will be served at a yak herder’s hut. After lunch, the trail passes the settlements of Soe and Takethang, where people grow crops such as barley, potatoes, and turnips. The final walk crosses open ground and follows a stream to Dangochang village, leading to the campsite at Jangothang at 4,040 meters. From here, you can enjoy excellent views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Today is dedicated to letting your body adjust to the altitude. You can take a gentle exploration to the north of camp for about four hours, walking across open slopes until you are rewarded with views of Mt. Jichu Drakye (6,989 m). For those feeling adventurous, a higher climb up to 4,895 m—taller than Mont Blanc—offers spectacular sights of Mount Jomolhari. This area is rich in wildlife and unique plants, such as blue sheep, golden eagles, griffon vultures, Himalayan rhubarb, and the rare blue poppy. Jangothang is a broad grassy plateau with the remains of an old fortress, lying under the shadow of the towering peaks. Due to the high altitude, rest is recommended, but whether you choose to hike or stay at camp, the day will be remarkable.

18Km | 6-7 Hours | 790M Ascent | 860M Descent | Camp Alt 4010M

Follow the stream and cross a bridge to begin the climb. Reach a ridge with spectacular views of Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherim Gang. Continue through the valley to Ngye La Pass (4,700 m) and descend gently to the campsite at 4,010 m, overlooking Lingshi Dzong.

19 Km| 7-8 Hours | 910M Ascent | 842M Descent | Camp Alt 4100M

The Laya–Gasa route splits from the Jumolhari Trek, climbing first to a small white chorten above camp, then south along the Mo Chhu Valley. The trail ascends gradually, crosses the river, and climbs steeply to Yakley La Pass (4,942 m) with views of Jumolhari, Gangchen Ta, Tsherim Gang, and Masang Gang. Descend beside a stream to reach Shodu (4,100 m), a meadow campsite with a chorten.

16 Km | 5-6 Hours | 470M Descent

The trek descends into the treeline, tracing the Thimphu River through forests of rhododendron and juniper, with stunning cliffs and waterfalls along the way. Stop for a hot lunch by the riverside before ascending gently to the historic Barshong Dzong ruins (3,630 m), once a supply point for Lingzhi Dzong. A short walk along a farm road leads to your vehicle, which takes you to Thimphu for an evening arrival and overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport, where our representative will warmly see you off and bid you a fond farewell.