The Jomolhari Trek is one of Bhutan’s most popular and scenic treks, known for its stunning views of Mount Jomolhari, the sacred peak that marks the border between Bhutan and Tibet. The trek takes you through remote villages, dense forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes. It’s a moderate-to-difficult trek that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a chance to experience Bhutan’s natural beauty and rich culture.
Here’s a suggested 8-day itinerary for the Jomolhari Trek, which includes acclimatization days and sightseeing in Paro and Thimphu.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro & Drive to Thimphu
- Arrival at Paro International Airport:
- Upon arrival at Paro, you will be greeted by your guide and driver. Drive to Thimphu (about 1.5 hours).
- Sightseeing in Thimphu:
- Visit Tashichho Dzong, a stunning fortress and the seat of Bhutan’s government.
- Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
- Explore Memorial Chorten, dedicated to the third King of Bhutan.
- Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu to Paro & Acclimatization
- Morning: After breakfast, drive back to Paro (1.5-hour drive).
- Sightseeing in Paro:
- Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): Visit this beautiful fortress-monastery that sits on the banks of the Paro Chhu River.
- National Museum of Bhutan: Explore the museum housed in the old Ta Dzong, with exhibits on Bhutan’s history, culture, and art.
- Afternoon:
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century.
- Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 3: Paro to Sharna Zampa (Trek Start)
- Morning:
- Drive to the Sharna Zampa (2 hours), the starting point of the Jomolhari Trek.
- Start your trek from Sharna Zampa (2,800 meters). The trail begins with a gentle ascent through a mixed forest of rhododendrons, pine, and oak.
- Trekking Distance: 10 km / 4-5 hours
- Camp: Your first night will be spent at Jangothang (3,800 meters), where you’ll get your first view of Mount Jomolhari.
- Overnight: Camp at Jangothang.
Day 4: Jangothang to Lingshi
- Morning:
- Trek from Jangothang to Lingshi (4,010 meters). The trail ascends and passes through beautiful meadows with panoramic views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
- The trek is slightly more challenging, with some steep sections, but the views are worth it. You’ll pass through yak herders’ camps and small Bhutanese settlements.
- Trekking Distance: 19 km / 6-7 hours
- Along the way, you’ll pass through alpine meadows and forests. You may also see blue sheep and other wildlife.
- Overnight: Camp at Lingshi (4,010 meters).
Day 5: Lingshi to Shodu
- Morning:
- Trek from Lingshi to Shodu (4,080 meters). This is one of the most scenic days of the trek, as you pass through high-altitude meadows, climb ridges, and cross streams.
- The trail ascends toward the Yaksume La Pass (4,820 meters), where you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Jomolhari and the surrounding peaks.
- Trekking Distance: 22 km / 7-8 hours
- After reaching the pass, the trail descends into a beautiful valley, where you’ll find your campsite by a stream near Shodu.
- Overnight: Camp at Shodu (4,080 meters).
Day 6: Shodu to Barshong
- Morning:
- Trek from Shodu to Barshong (3,560 meters). This is a relatively easier day compared to previous days, as the trail descends gradually through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
- As you descend into the valley, enjoy the natural beauty of the environment, with several stream crossings along the way.
- Trekking Distance: 16 km / 6-7 hours
- Your campsite will be near a beautiful river, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Overnight: Camp at Barshong (3,560 meters).
Day 7: Barshong to Dolam Kencho
- Morning:
- Trek from Barshong to Dolam Kencho (2,640 meters). The trail takes you through lush forests, along rivers, and through traditional Bhutanese villages.
- Trekking Distance: 12 km / 5-6 hours
- Along the way, you may encounter wildlife like Himalayan tahr or monkeys. The landscape is green and fertile, and you will pass through several small villages before reaching your camp.
- Overnight: Camp at Dolam Kencho (2,640 meters).
Day 8: Dolam Kencho to Paro (End of Trek)
- Morning:
- The final day of the trek will take you from Dolam Kencho to Paro (2,280 meters). This is a relatively easy trek with a descent into the Paro Valley.
- The trail passes through fields and forests before reaching Duer village.
- Trekking Distance: 15 km / 4-5 hours
- Once you reach Paro, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
- Evening:
- Rest and relax in Paro. You can take the evening to explore more of the town or simply relax.
- Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Day 9: Departure from Paro
- Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.
Summary of Key Highlights:
- Mount Jomolhari: Majestic views of Bhutan’s sacred peak.
- Jangothang: A high-altitude campsite with views of Mount Jomolhari.
- Lingshi: A small village with views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
- Shodu and Barshong: Beautiful valleys and alpine meadows.
- Yaksume La Pass: An elevated pass with magnificent panoramic views.
- Bhutanese Villages: Explore the culture and life of Bhutan’s rural communities.
This 8-day Jomolhari Trek provides an immersive experience in Bhutan’s stunning natural environment. From the challenging passes to the peaceful campsites near mountain lakes and streams, the trek offers unparalleled views of the Himalayas while giving you a chance to experience Bhutanese culture up close