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Paro: Bhutan.

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The Snowman Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Bhutan, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, remote mountain landscapes, and the opportunity to experience Bhutan’s unique culture. The trek is a high-altitude journey that takes trekkers through the heart of the eastern Himalayas, crossing several high passes and offering spectacular views of the Bhutanese landscape.

Typically, the Snowman Trek takes about 20 days, making it one of the longest treks in Bhutan. However, I will provide a 12-day itinerary for this trek, focusing on the highlights and the core experience, which can be customized to suit different preferences and time constraints.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

  • Arrival at Paro International Airport:
    • You will be greeted by your guide and driver and transferred to your hotel in Paro.
  • Sightseeing in Paro:
    • Visit Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong), a beautiful fortress on the banks of the Paro River.
    • Explore the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the old Ta Dzong, showcasing Bhutan’s history, culture, and art.
    • Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
  • Overnight: Stay in Paro.

Day 2: Paro to Shana (Trek Start)

  • Drive to Shana (2,850 meters) – about a 2-hour drive from Paro.
  • Trek from Shana to Soi Thangthangkha (3,750 meters), crossing the Paro River and gradually ascending through a forest of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
    • The trek is around 22 km and will take about 6-7 hours.
    • This is your first night camping on the trek.
  • Overnight: Camp at Soi Thangthangkha.

Day 3: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang

  • Trek from Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang (4,080 meters) – approximately 19 km (5-6 hours).
    • You’ll pass through alpine meadows and forested areas while enjoying the first views of Mount Jomolhari.
    • Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see yaks and blue sheep.
  • Overnight: Camp at Jangothang.

Day 4: Jangothang to Lingshi

  • Trek from Jangothang to Lingshi (4,010 meters) – 18 km (6-7 hours).
    • The trail continues through stunning alpine scenery, including views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
    • The path passes yak herders’ camps and crosses beautiful valleys.
  • Overnight: Camp at Lingshi.

Day 5: Lingshi to Shodu

  • Trek from Lingshi to Shodu (4,080 meters) – approximately 22 km (7-8 hours).
    • This is a long day of trekking, which includes crossing the Yaksume La Pass (4,820 meters).
    • The views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks are awe-inspiring, and you will descend into the valley after crossing the pass.
  • Overnight: Camp at Shodu.

Day 6: Shodu to Barshong

  • Trek from Shodu to Barshong (3,560 meters) – approximately 16 km (6-7 hours).
    • The trail descends through forests and beautiful valleys, crossing several streams along the way.
  • Overnight: Camp at Barshong.

Day 7: Barshong to Dolam Kencho

  • Trek from Barshong to Dolam Kencho (2,640 meters) – approximately 12 km (5-6 hours).
    • The trail continues through lush forests and open meadows, with glimpses of the surrounding peaks.
  • Overnight: Camp at Dolam Kencho.

Day 8: Dolam Kencho to Thimphu

  • Trek from Dolam Kencho to Thimphu (2,320 meters) – approximately 12 km (4-5 hours).
    • The trek ends with a descent into Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, where you can relax and enjoy the city’s attractions.
  • Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.

Day 9: Explore Thimphu

  • Sightseeing in Thimphu:
    • Tashichho Dzong: Visit the stunning fortress-monastery that houses the offices of the King and Bhutan’s government.
    • Buddha Dordenma Statue: See the giant Buddha statue overlooking the Thimphu Valley.
    • National Memorial Chorten: A stupa dedicated to the third King of Bhutan.
    • National Library: Home to ancient Buddhist texts and scriptures.
  • Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.

Day 10: Thimphu to Punakha

  • Drive to Punakha (about 2.5 to 3 hours).
  • Sightseeing in Punakha:
    • Visit Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful and historically significant dzongs in Bhutan.
    • Take a short walk to the Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
  • Overnight: Stay in Punakha.

Day 11: Punakha to Paro

  • Drive to Paro (approximately 3-4 hours).
  • Sightseeing in Paro:
    • Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest): Hike to the famous monastery perched on the cliffside.
    • Explore other sites in Paro, like Kyichu Lhakhang and Rinpung Dzong.
  • Overnight: Stay in Paro.

Day 12: Departure

  • Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.

Summary of Key Highlights:

  • Jomolhari: Views of Bhutan’s sacred peak.
  • High-altitude trekking: Cross high mountain passes and remote valleys.
  • Bhutanese culture: Visit monasteries, dzongs, and rural villages along the way.
  • Thimphu & Punakha: Explore Bhutan’s cultural hubs and historic sites.
  • Tiger’s Nest Monastery: A highlight in Paro with spectacular views.

The Snowman Trek is an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers. It’s a physically demanding trek, but it rewards you with incredible landscapes, a deep sense of achievement, and a unique opportunity to explore one of the most remote and culturally rich areas in the world. This 12-day itinerary offers a shortened version of the full trek while still capturing the essence of this epic adventure.