13 Nights/14 Days
Jomolhari Trek
- Thimphu
- Punakha
- Wangdue
- Paro
Highlight
The Jomolhari Trek is one of Bhutan’s most celebrated high-altitude journeys, a 10-day mountain traverse framed by the legendary snow peaks of the eastern Himalayas. Beginning in the emerald valleys of Paro, the trail ascends through lush forests, remote yak herder settlements, and sweeping alpine meadows, culminating in breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m) and her companions, Jichu Drake and Tsheringmeigang. At its highest point, the trek crosses Yeli La Pass at 4,950 meters, offering a 360-degree panorama of some of Bhutan’s most sacred peaks.
Blending physical challenge with deep cultural immersion, this moderate-to-hard trek winds past centuries-old dzongs (fortresses), prayer-flag-lined passes, and villages where time moves at the pace of nature. Each day reveals a new chapter in Bhutan’s story — one told through the rhythms of yak bells, the flutter of prayer flags, and the distant roar of glacial rivers.
Daywise Tour Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Bhutan – Gateway to the Himalayas
Fly into Paro, one of the world’s most spectacular air approaches, with the Himalayas unfolding like an endless white fortress. Upon arrival, you will explore the Paro Valley, a tapestry of terraced fields, pine forests, and traditional farmhouses. Visit Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong (now the National Museum), where ancient thangkas and rare artifacts offer a glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. Stroll through Paro town or sample a locally brewed craft beer at Namgay Artisanal Brewery as you begin to acclimatize.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 2 - Tiger’s Nest Monastery – Bhutan’s Spiritual Icon
Embark on the legendary hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched dramatically 900 meters above the Paro Valley floor. This sacred site marks where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated in the 8th century. The trail weaves through pine forests scented with incense, past a scenic cafeteria viewpoint, and across a bridge toward the monastery’s cliffside entrance. Inside, explore the meditation caves and absorb the profound spiritual energy of one of the world’s most iconic pilgrimage sites.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 3 - Trek Begins – Sharna Zampa to Soi Thangthangka
Distance: 16 km | Trek Time: 7–8 hours | Start Elevation: 2,850 m | Camp Elevation: 3,570 m
Your Jomolhari adventure begins at Sharna Zampa, where the trail follows the Paro Chhu River through a deep, forested valley. After crossing an army checkpoint, the path alternates between gentle ascents and descents, opening occasionally to glimpses of snow peaks. By evening, reach the meadow campsite of Soi Thangthangka. If the skies are clear, Mount Jomolhari will make her first majestic appearance.
Overnight: Camp at Soi Thangthangka
Day 4 - Soi Thangthangka to Jangothang Base Camp
Distance: 11 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hours | Elevation: 4,040 m
Follow the widening Paro Chhu Valley into a realm of alpine meadows and sparse forests. Pass yak herder encampments and small settlements before arriving at Jangothang — one of the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas. Here, Mount Jomolhari stands sentinel at the head of the valley, illuminated in the evening light.
Overnight: Jangothang Base Camp
Day 5 - Rest & Acclimatization at Jangothang
Spend the day exploring the surrounding highlands. Optional hikes lead to turquoise glacial lakes or higher ridges with unparalleled views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Keep watch for blue sheep grazing along the slopes, a favored prey of the elusive snow leopard.
Overnight: Jangothang Base Camp
Day 6 - Jangothang to Lingshi via Ngye La Pass
Distance: 16 km | Trek Time: 7–8 hours | Camp Elevation: 4,010 m
Ascend gradually to Ngye La Pass (4,830 m), where a stunning panorama of Himalayan giants unfolds. Descend toward Lingshi, where the white-walled fortress of Lingshi Dzong crowns a hilltop overlooking the valley. This dzong once guarded against Tibetan and Mongol invasions and served as a rest stop for pilgrims.
Overnight: Camp at Lingshi
Day 7 - Lingshi to Chebisa – Village Life in the High Himalayas
Distance: 12 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hours | Elevation: 3,850 m
Today’s route is gentle, passing Lingshi Yugyel Dzong and meandering down toward the Mo Chhu River. Reach Chebisa, a small settlement where waterfalls cascade from high cliffs and life moves to the slow rhythm of yak herding.
Overnight: Camp at Chebisa
Day 8 - Chebisa to Lingshi
Distance: 13 km | Trek Time: 3–4 hours | Elevation: 3,800 m
Return toward Lingshi, with opportunities to visit the Institute of Traditional Medicine if time allows. The shorter trekking hours today offer a chance to rest before the next challenging leg.
Overnight: Camp at Lingshi
Day 9 - Lingshi to Shodu via Yeli La Pass
Distance: 22 km | Trek Time: 8–9 hours | Elevation: 4,080 m
One of the toughest yet most rewarding days of the trek. Climb steadily past birch groves to the alpine zone, reaching the wind-swept Yeli La Pass at 4,950 m. The summit rewards you with commanding views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsheringmeigang before descending to the riverside meadows of Shodu.
Overnight: Camp at Shodu
Day 10 - Shodu to Barshong – Journey Toward Thimphu
Distance: 16 km | Trek Time: 5–6 hours | Elevation: Barshong 3,600 m
Follow the Thimphu Chhu through rhododendron forests and along narrow gorges. The trail passes waterfalls and ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong. From here, a vehicle will transfer you along a rugged road toward Thimphu.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 11 - Day 11–12: Discover Thimphu – Heart of Modern Bhutan
Explore Bhutan’s capital, a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma statue, the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (school of arts and crafts), and the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory. Browse the lively Kaja Throm market and witness an archery match, Bhutan’s beloved national sport.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 12 - Departure from Bhutan
Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon as we transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
The Jomolhari Trek is more than a mountain trail — it is an intimate passage into Bhutan’s wild heart. With Ling Travel Bhutan, every step is guided by local knowledge, cultural insight, and a deep respect for the landscapes you traverse. Join us, and let the Himalayas tell their story through your footsteps.