To the Mountain of the Goddess
Jomolhari Trek
Overview
Embark on Bhutan’s most famous trek, a journey to the base of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7,314m). This classic loop takes you through pristine alpine valleys, across high mountain passes, and into remote regions where yak herders roam. It’s the perfect adventure for those seeking a challenging yet achievable high-altitude Himalayan experience, culminating in a descent into the capital city of Thimphu.
Duration
11 days
Group Size
2+
Avg Walking Dist
19-20 KM
Trek Grade
Moderate/Hard
Trekking Seasons
March - June, September - November
Max Elevations
4890 M
Trek Highlights
- Witness the majestic Mount Jomolhari (7,314m) up-close from its spectacular base camp at Jangothang.
- Conquer two of Bhutan’s highest trekking passes, the Tremo La (4,890m) and Yale La (4,930m), for breathtaking panoramic views.
- Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) as a perfect spiritual and acclimatization start to your journey.
- Trek through diverse landscapes from river valleys to lush forests of rhododendron, juniper, and pine.
- Experience remote high-altitude life with a chance to see blue sheep, yak herder camps, and the serene Tshophu Lake.
- Explore the historic Lingshi Valley and see the dramatic Lingshi Dzong fortress perched on a hillside.
- Complete one of Bhutan’s most classic and challenging treks, culminating with a celebratory descent into the capital city of Thimphu.
Detailed Itenary
Day 1
Arrive in the Himalayan Kingdom | Paro (2,280m)
- Experience: Your adventure begins with a spectacular flight into Paro, surrounded by the peaks of the Himalayas. After visa formalities, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel.
- Evening: Briefing on the incredible adventure that lies ahead.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
Day 2
Acclimatization & Spiritual Ascent | Hike to Tiger’s Nest (3,120m)
- Highlight: A crucial acclimatization day tackling Bhutan’s most iconic site. The hike to the sacred Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) prepares your body for the challenges ahead and is a profound cultural experience in itself.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
Day 3
Trek Begins! | Drugyal Dzong to Shana (Trek Start: ~17km, 5-6 hrs, 360m ascent)
- Experience: Drive to Drugyal Dzong (a ruined fortress) to begin your trek. The trail follows the Paro Chhu river through beautiful pine and oak forests, gradually climbing to your first camp at Shana (2,850m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Shana
Day 4
Deeper into the Valley | Shana to Sio Thangthangkha (~21km, 7-8 hrs, 770m ascent)
- Experience: The trail continues to follow the river, climbing steadily through dense, pristine forests. The valley narrows, and the views of the surrounding peaks become more dramatic.
- Camp: You’ll reach your camp at Soi Thangthangkha (3,620m), a small clearing in the forest.
- Accommodation: Camping at Soi Thangthangkha
Day 5
First Glimpse of Giants | Sio Thangthangkha to Jangothang (~19km, 5-6 hrs, 480m ascent)
- Highlight: A shorter but spectacular day. The trail leaves the forest line and enters a wide, alpine valley. The breathtaking peak of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m) reveals itself, dominating the skyline. You’ll set up camp at Jangothang (4,080m), Jomolhari’s base camp, with stunning views in every direction.
- Accommodation: Camping at Jangothang
Day 6
Acclimatization & Exploration | Jangothang Halt
- Experience: A vital rest day for acclimatization. Choose from several spectacular day hikes:
- Hike towards Jomolhari for closer views of the glacier.
- Trek to the opposite side of the valley to see Tshophu Lake.
- This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude before crossing high passes.
- Accommodation: Camping at Jangothang
Day 7
Crossing the Tremo La | Jangothang to Lingshi (~19km, 6-7 hrs, 840m ascent/870m descent)
- Challenge & Reward: The first major pass day. A steep climb rewards you with stunning views from the Tremo La Pass (also known as Nyile La, 4,890m). You’ll then descend into the Lingshi basin, with chances to see blue sheep and the impressive Lingshi Dzong perched on a hillside. Camp at Lingshi (4,010m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Lingshi
Day 8
The Long Descent Begins | Lingshi to Shodu (~22km, 7-8 hrs, 870m descent)
- Experience: Today you cross the Yale La Pass (4,930m), offering more panoramic views. The trail then follows the source of the Thimphu Chhu river, descending into a beautiful valley of rhododendrons and alpine shrubs to reach your camp at Shodu (3,960m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Shodu
Day 9
Following the River | Shodu to Barshong to Domshisa (~23km, 8-9 hrs, 650m descent)
- Experience: The trail now follows the Thimphu Chhu river, descending through thick rhododendron, juniper, and conifer forests. You’ll pass the ruins of Barshong Dzong before reaching your camp in a clearing of hemlock and pine trees at Domshisa (3,310m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Domshisa
Day 10
Return to Civilization | Domshisa to Thimphu (Trek Ends: ~17km, 4-5 hrs, 1000m+ descent)
- Finale: The final trekking day is a pleasant walk down to the road point at Cherbangmi, following the river through increasingly populated areas. Your vehicle awaits for the short drive to Thimphu. Celebrate your achievement with a hot shower and a comfortable hotel bed.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 11
Farewell, Bhutan | Thimphu to Paro Departure
Morning: After a final Bhutanese breakfast, drive to Paro International Airport for your flight onward. Depart with a lifetime of memories and the immense satisfaction of completing one of the Himalayas’ classic treks. “Tashi Delek!”
Tour Package Conditions
Inclusions
- Sustainable development fees and internal taxes
- Accommodation in certified 3-star hotels (4/5-star upgrades available).
- All meals
- A licensed, English-speaking Bhutanese trekking guide.
- A private driver and comfortable tourist vehicle for all transfers.
- All entry fees to museums, monuments, and cultural sites.
- Equipment & haulage for trekking.
Exclusions
- Flight tickets.
- Alcoholic, sparkling water, and soft drinks.
- Tips for guides, drivers and trekking crews.
- Personal shopping and expenses.
Travel Insurance
Package does not include insurance of any kinds, and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
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