Snowman Trek – 30 days/ 29 nights

• Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of The Heap of Jewels)
• National Museum of Bhutan – Ta Dzong.
• Kyichu Lhakhang- one of the 108 temples built throughout the Himalayas

       Over night at Paro valley

• • Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of The Heap of Jewels)
  • National Museum of Bhutan – Ta Dzong.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang- one of the 108 temples built throughout the Himalayas

         Over night at Paro valley

• • Distance: 20km
    Estimated time: 8hrs
    Camp altitude: 3,610m
    Ascent 770m, descent 10m

    Traverse the diverse terrain of the trail, navigating ascents and descents across the valley. After crossing the river valley, descend to a picturesque meadow, camping at 3,610m altitude. On clear days, bask in the majestic sight of Mt. Jomolhari (7,314m), revered as the ‘Goddess of The Holy Mountain’ or ‘Goddess of The Mountain Pass’ by the Bhutanese, exuding a profound sense of sacredness and awe.

• • Distance: 19km
    Estimated time: 6hrs
    Camp altitude: 4,080m
    Ascent 480m

    • Trek through dense forests for about an hour, following the river to the army checkpoint at 3,730m altitude, where yaks and their herders frequent. Traverse villages and ascend the mountain before reaching the Jangothang campsite. Renowned as one of Bhutan’s most scenic campsites, Jangothang offers a breathtaking perspective of Mt. Jomolhari, elevating the camping experience amidst nature’s grandeur.

• Savor a well-deserved rest day at Jangothang, perfect for acclimatization. Explore numerous day hike options offering panoramic vistas of lakes and snow-capped peaks like Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Keep an eye out for elusive blue sheep on the valley’s upper slopes. Trek to Tosoh Lake or meander around the area for scenic views. Discover short hiking trails in three directions: west towards Jomolhari, north to Jichu Drake, and east, where unclimbed peaks beckon. Jangothang’s serene beauty and abundant trekking opportunities promise an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

• Distance: 18km
  Estimated time: 7-8hrs
  Camp altitude: 4,010m
  Ascent 840 m, descent 870 m
  • Embark on one of the trek’s longest stretches, heading northward and ascending steeply for approximately half an hour to reach Nyilila pass at 4,870m. Witness herds of blue sheep grazing on the mountain slopes, accompanied by stunning views of Mt. Jichu Drake.
  • The descent leads to the campsite, passing by yak herders’ tents and gradually entering the picturesque Lingshi basin, characterized by its charming U-shaped valley. Weather permitting, indulge in breathtaking views of Lingshi Dzong and Tserimgang, along with its glaciers at the valley’s northern end. Settle at the campsite near a stone hut, offering close proximity to Lingshi Dzong and the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscape.

• Distance: 10km
  Estimated time: 5-6hrs
  Camp altitude: 3,880m
  Ascent 280m, descent 410m
  • This section of the trek will be an enjoyable experience on a wide trail high above on the valley floor. Detour to the Lingshi Dzong is an option or continue on the mail trail.
    A visit to the dzong with provide a view of the picturesque valley. An hour’s gradual climb will bring the trail to a cairn with some prayer flags on Talela ridge (4,100m), Nyilila pass and Mount Jitchu Drake will be visible at this point.
  • The trail descends towards a side valley, through Lingshi and Goyul villages. Houses in Goyul are made of stone and clustered together, which is uncommon for Bhutanese houses, making it an interesting sight. Additionally, there is Ja Goed Dzong located in Goyul village, worth a visit as it is one of the four temples built by PhajoDrugomZhigpo, one of the most sacred temples in Bhutan.
    Campsite at Chebisa village after another hour of trekking, located close to a waterfall behind this small village.

• Distance: 17km
  Estimated time: 6-7hrs
  Camp altitude: 4,220m
  Ascent 890m, descent 540m
  • The trail from Chebisa village will start with a long ascent through a wide grassland, leading to Gobu La pass (4,410m). During the hike, large herds of blue sheep or herders with their yaks can be spotted. Crossing Gobu La pass, the trek will descend gradually to Shakshepasa (3,980m), a large beautiful U-shaped valley. Climbing the valley, campsite is located at Shomuthang above the river, which is a tributary of the Nochu river.

• Distance: 18km
  Estimated time: 6-7hrs
  Camp altitude: 4,160m
  Ascent 700m, descent 760m

A climb up the valley to observe Kang Bum Mount (6,526m) and lovely edelweiss (a flower which only found in remote mountain areas). Continuing with two hours of hike which leads to Jhari La pass (4,750m) providing views of Sinche La pass- the hike for the next day. To the north is a stunning snowy peak, which is a part of Gangchheta (Great Tiger Mountain). On a clear day, the Tserim Kang along with top of the Jomolhari Mount will be visible. The campsite by the river TsheriJathang, is located in a wide and alluring valley. In the summer, herds of Takin – Bhutan’s National Animal will migrate to this valley and stay for about 4 months. Thus, the valley is now a takin sanctuary. Campsite at Robluthang is a brief climb away.

• Distance: 19km
  Estimated time: 6-7hrs
  Camp altitude: 4,140m
  Ascent 850m, descent 870
  • Prepare for a challenging section of the trek, starting with the crossing of several small streams followed by a gradual ascent through a boulder field lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Ascend steeply for another hour to reach the Sinche La pass at an impressive elevation of 5,005m, the highest point of the trek.At the foot of the valley, marvel at the sight of a striking terminal moraine and a glacier lake situated on the far side of Sinche La pass. To the northeast, behold the majestic Mt. Gangchhenta, standing tall at 6,840m, adorned with snow and ice.Cross the Kango Chhu, passing through lush cedar forests, before arriving at the Limithang campsite at 4,140m. From the campsite, enjoy panoramic views of the towering peak of Gangchhenta, a reminder of the awe-inspiring natural beauty encountered on this unforgettable trek.

• Distance: 10km
  Estimated time: 5hrs
  Camp altitude: 3,840m
  Ascent 60m, descent 340
  • The trek begins with the only brief ascent followed by downhill trekking along a narrow, winding river valley before crossing a dense forest. The trek leads from the west side of Laya village. Views of both Mt. Gangchhenta and Mt. Masagang continue to have its presence along the trek. The campsite will be located below the community school.

• Take a well-deserved rest day in Laya village, offering an array of cultural and rejuvenating experiences. Explore the village and engage with local residents, gaining insight into the life of the Bhutanese in this region.
• Discover the distinctive culture of Laya, epitomized by the unique attire of Layap women, crafted from yak hair and sheep’s wool, complete with a conical bamboo hat adorned with decorative elements. Witness the daily activities of Layap women tending to yaks, weaving, and participating in agricultural tasks, while men engage in trading and fieldwork with yaks.
• Indulge in a traditional hot stone bath, a therapeutic experience where heated stones are immersed in water-filled wooden boxes, often infused with herbs for added health benefits.
• Explore the surrounding area, including holy lakes such as KharkhilTscho, Paro Tsho, and Oneme Tsho in ChhutonChhagari. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of these crystal-clear lakes and lush green meadows, offering a refreshing contrast to the rugged mountain landscapes encountered during the trek. Alternatively, unwind at the hot springs in Lungo village, adding another dimension to your exploration of Bhutan’s natural wonders.

Distance: 19km
Estimated time: 6-8hrs
Camp altitude: 4160m

• From Laya, the trail descends to an army camp and continue following the river till the turn-off point to Rhoduphu. After lunch, the climb continues through rhododendron bushes till you reach the camp at Roduphu, just next to the RhoduChhu.

Distance: 17km
Estimated time: 6-7hrs
Camp altitude: 4900m

• The trail follows the river and will have a steady climb to a high open valley at 4,600m to reach Tsomo la (4,900m). Tsomo La offers a superb view of Lunana, Mt. Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, and the Tibetan border. The trail crosses a flat, barren plateau at about 5,000m. Campsite at Narethang is towered by the peak of GanglaKarchung (6,395m)

Distance: 17km
Estimated time: 5-6hrs
Camp altitude: 3970m

• From the camp, climb to GanglaKarchung La (5,120m). The view from the pass is breathtaking and the whole range of mountains including Jekangphu Gang (7,100m), Tsenda Kang, and Teri Gang (7,300m) can be seen. The pass descends along a large moraine. Again one has great views: a massive glacier descends from Teri Kang to a deep turquoise lake at its foot. Finally, a long descend through thick rhododendron to Tarina valley, where several good campsites along the Tang Chhu are possible.

• Distance: 16km
  Estimated time: 6-7hrs
  Camp altitude: 3910m
  • The walk leads down through conifer forests following the upper ridges of the Pho Chhu, passing some impressive waterfalls. The trail then climbs over a ridge and drops to Woche, a settlement of a few houses, the first village in the Lunana region.

• Distance: 17km
  Estimated time: 6-7hrs
  Camp altitude: 3700m
  • Trekking through juniper and fir forests and rhododendron bushes. Climb up to Keche La pass (4,650m) where a great view of the surrounding mountains is seen. After the pass, descend to the riverside walking through a village with a stunning view of Table Mountain and others. Follow up the river till Lhedi village.

Distance: 17km
Estimated time: 7-8hrs
Camp altitude: 4150m

• On a clear day, observe great views of Table Mountain (7,100m). The trail will pass the small village of Chozo (4,090m) which has a dzong still in use. Reaching Thanza again enjoy great views of Table Mountain which forms a 3,000m high wall of snow and ice behind the village. Although there are possibilities to camp directly at Thanza, most groups prefer to camp in Thoencha

In Thanza, walk around and experience some village life or climb up the ridge for fascinating views of lakes and mountains.

Distance: 19km
Estimated time: 8hrs
Camp altitude: 5120m

• The trek starts with a climb up to the ridge, from where there is a great view of Table Mountain and Thanza valley below. Following a stream through a small valley, enjoying the view of snowcapped mountains and then climb up out of the valley to reach our campsite at Tshorim (5,125m).

Distance: 16km
Estimated time: 6-7hrs
Camp altitude: 4970m

• This is one of the highlights of the trek. The day starts with a short climb to Tshorim Lake. Walking on the side of the lake enjoying a panoramic view of the Gophu La ranges. The last climb to the Gophu La pass (5,230m) is very short. After the pass descend to the base camp, walking along the ridge to enjoy a great view of Gangkhar Puensum. Climb up a pyramid-shaped peak for a better view or proceed directly to the base camp (4,970m) near the Sha Chu.

Distance: 18km
Estimated time: 7hrs
Camp altitude: 4200m

• The trail follows the Sha Chhu and descends gradually to GesheWoma.

Distance: 18km
Estimated time: 8-9hrs
Camp altitude: 4000m

• The path continues following Sha Chhu until the stiff climb to Saka La begins. Visibility is poor along this part of the trail, so in order to stay on course the top of the ridge landmark. The path then descends to a couple of lakes and another short ascent is stunning. The scenery once again is beautiful with small lakes and mountain peaks

Distance: 14km
Estimated time: 5hrs
Camp altitude: 3590m

• Climb to Juli la (4,400m) before descending to the riverside through dense rhododendron, juniper, and conifer forests. Then crossing a bridge and after a short climb reache Dhur Tshachu hot spring, where legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava bathed in the 8th century.

Distance: 16km
Estimated time: 8-9hrs
Camp altitude: 3850m

• From the hot springs, it is a long and steady climb again with great views of mountains in Lunana. Also come across blue lakes and yak herder huts

Distance: 21km
Estimated time: 13hrs

• This is the last day of the trek. The path follows the ChamkharChhu, descending gradually with a few climbs in between. The trek ends here arriving at Duer village.
• Pick up will be organized at the trek endpoint for transfer to the hotel in Bumthang.

• Bumthang valley (Chamkher)
• Jambay Lhakhang- Belonging to the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songsten Gampo in the 7th century.
• Kurjey Lhakhang- The large, active and important temple complex is named after the body (kur) print (jey) of Guru Rinpoche, which is preserved in a cave inside the oldest of the three buildings that make up the complex.
• Bathpalathang- Visit the Red Panda Brewery. First established beer brewery in Bhutan founded by a Swiss national. Observe the process beer production and taste freshly brewed beer and cheese.
• LhodrakKharchu Monastery- The renowned monastery was blessed by Guru Rinpoche and is the seat of the successive NamkhaiNyingpo reincarnates.

• Drive to Punakha valley 5 to 6 hours.
• Visit Trongsa Dzong and Museum

Over nioght at Punakha.

• After breakfast, we visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, a temple plus nunnery Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery
• Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness)- Built-in 1637, it is said to be the most spectacular dzong in Bhutan.
• Chimi Lhakhang- Hike to the Temple of Fertility (altitude: 1,500m). 
• Drive to Thimphu City
• Experience the night life at Thimphu city.

Over night at Thimphu

• Drive to paro
• Departure from paro international airport

       TASHI DELEK AND THANK YOU FOR VISITING