Snowman Trek

Your friendly tour guide will be eagerly awaiting your arrival with your surname written on a plaque outside the exit doors at Paro International Airport. You will be driven to your hotel to unpack and enjoy a cup of tea then head out for some sightseeing if you wish. Note: Depending on the time of arrival, certain destinations below may have to be forgone if your arrival time is in the afternoon. This will be discussed during the booking process. We will take a short drive to see the Drukgyel dzong (fortress) with its stunning forest and mountain vistas. This dzong (the name literally translates to ‘the fortress of the victorious Drukpas’) was built after the victory over the Tibetan – Mongols in 1649. Then onto Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan which is said to have been built in 7th century by a Tibetan King known as Songtsen Gampo. There is an orange tree in its grounds that quite miraculously perpetually bears fruit. After an early lunch we will visit the national museum known as Ta dzong which houses a fine collection of ancient thangka paintings, textiles, weaponry, and other artefacts. Then you are free to roam the quaint streets of Paro at your leisure as you acclimatise to the altitude. Overnight: Khangkhu resort (L, D)

After breakfast we will embark on a hike to the renowned Taktsang monastery, famously referred to as ‘Tigers Nest’. The ascent to the viewpoint will take 1.5 hours, rewarding us with a breathtaking panoramic view of the monastery, which seemingly clings to the side of a cliff. Take a moment to rejuvenate at the Viewpoint cafeteria, soaking in the surrounding beauty. Subsequently, continue our journey towards the monastery, which entails an additional hour of walking. Legend has it that in the 8th century, Guru Rinpoche flew the distance from Tibet on the back of a tigress finally meditating in a cave here for three months. The main monastery within the present monastic complex traces its origins back to 1692. Despite suffering significant damage from a fire in 1998, Taktsang has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur. Once we have explored the monastery, we will retrace our steps, pausing for a satisfying lunch at the Viewpoint cafeteria, before continuing our descent towards the road point. Overnight: Khangkhu resort (B, L, D)

Prepare yourself for a challenging day of trekking with numerous ascents and descents. The trek begins by following the Pa Chu also known as the Paro River, as it winds through pine, oak, and spruce forests. After hiking continuously for 2 hours and crossing several streams we will arrive at a stone house (Shingkharap) situated at an altitude of just over 3000m. After lunch, the trek will be an uphill journey through rhododendron forests until we reach a junction at a chorten (a white inverted cup-shaped Buddhist structure). From there, we will veer left and continue along the designated trail. After 30 minutes, we will arrive at Thangthangka campsite, nestled amidst stunning alpine meadows at an altitude of 3500m. If weather permits, we may get a glimpse of Jomolhari (the best photograph can be taken from the right side of the toilets).

Today will be a relatively easy day of trekking but since we will be venturing above the tree line to higher altitudes over 4000m, we will take it slowly to enjoy the scenery. The trek takes us through the Paro Chu valley, where we’ll encounter alpine meadows and patches of forest. Along the way, we will pass an army checkpoint and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain ranges and snow-capped peaks. The landscape will feature yaks and herders’ homes, adding to the scenic beauty. We will also trek through the villages of Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang where barley, potatoes, and turnips are grown. The highlight of the day is reaching Jangothang, also known as Jomolhari base camp, a stunning campsite at 4100m known for its panoramic views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and the ancient ruins.

Today, we have an exciting acclimatisation hike planned to the twin lakes called Tsho Phu (adjacent to Nyele La), situated at an altitude of 4450m. Setting off from the camp, we’ll head northward, passing through charming small settlements before embarking on a challenging eastward ascent. As we progress, a long, hidden valley will gradually reveal itself, unveiling the mesmerising sight of two stunning ice lakes nestled at its base. We’ll have the opportunity to explore the first lake and, if the group is keen, venture further to the second, where we can have magnificent views of Jomolhari I, Jomolhari II (2 of the 3 peaks of Jomolhari), and Jichu Drake peaks. Keep an eye out for herds of blue sheep, which are commonly spotted in the area. For those seeking an additional adventure, it's possible to continue onwards to the Bonte La (pass) at an altitude of 5005m, then return. After immersing ourselves in the beauty of the lakes, we will descend back down to our campsite at Jangothang, allowing for a well-deserved rest as we prepare for the days ahead. Note: At this altitude, it is common for most trekkers to experience symptoms of mountain sickness, making it imperative that we pause and rest at Jangothang. Whether you prefer to take a break and relax at the campsite or opt to go for the acclimatisation hike, it will undoubtedly be a memorable day.

Starting from the camp, our journey begins with an ascent across gentle slopes of grassland and scattered vegetation, leading us to the Nyele La at an elevation of 4850m. This section of the trek is not excessively strenuous, and if this is your first Himalayan pass crossing, it’s recommended to take your time, especially during the final steeper stretches just before reaching the pass. Here, the terrain transitions from grassy slopes to loose scree and sand. The captivating views along the way, including that of Jichu Drake, will undoubtedly leave you with a feeling of total exhilaration. Upon crossing the Nyele La, we bid farewell to the sights of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, embarking on a steep descent through dense rhododendron forests, eventually arriving at the outskirts of Lingshi village. A notable highlight in this area is the Lingshi dzong, constructed as a protective fortress against periodic incursions from Tibet, safeguarding not only Lingshi but also the surrounding villages of Bhutan.

Today’s trek is relatively short, allowing for flexibility in our activities. If the group is feeling energetic, we can embark on a morning side trip to the picturesque Chhokam Tsho (lake), located at an altitude of 4340m near the base camp of Jichu Drake. This optional detour will involve approximately 8km of additional hiking, with an ascent and descent of 450m, taking around 3 hours to complete. Alternatively, we can start the day’s walk directly from the camp, heading towards a junction marked by a chorten. At this point, we’ll have 2 options to choose from. The first is to continue on the main trail, while the second offers a detour leading uphill to the Lingshi dzong, situated atop a lofty ridge. The Lingshi dzong not offers a unique atmosphere of tranquil mysticism but also provides splendid views overlooking the surrounding valley. Following the Lingshi dzong, we will pass through the villages of Lingshi and Gonyul. In Gonyul there is a distinctive feature – the stone houses are clustered closely together forming a compact village, which is somewhat unusual in Bhutan where settlements are typically scattered. Upon reaching our campsite at Chebisa, we’ll have ample time to explore the village houses if the group is up for it. Additionally, behind the village, there is a beautiful waterfall worth visiting, adding to the natural charm of the area. Overall, today's trek offers a combination of optional side trips, cultural exploration, and captivating scenery, allowing us to tailor the experience based on the group's preferences.

The day’s trek covers a distance of 15km and takes approximately 6 hours to complete. The route involves a 950m ascent and a 640m descent, with the campsite located at an altitude of 4130m. We begin the morning with a lengthy climb behind Chebisa village, taking around 2-3 hours. The trail leads us through expansive pasturelands, offering panoramic views as we make our way towards Gogu La at an elevation of 4420m. Along the way, it’s possible to encounter local yak herders tending to their herd just like their ancestors have done for centuries. Additionally, there’s an excellent chance to spot sizeable herds of blue sheep grazing on the slopes above the trail. After crossing Gogu La, we descend into the valley and then ascend a bit once again before descending further to reach Shakshepasa, a yak herders' camp situated at 3980 m in a vast and flat valley. Shakshepasa serves as a potential campsite for us, but depending on the availability of water and the size of our group, we may choose to continue with an additional climb to the Shomuthang campsite at 4130m.

The trek for today covers a distance of 14 km and takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete. It involves a 500m ascent and a 760m descent, with the campsite situated at an altitude of 4160m. Our journey commences by ascending the valley, granting us a breathtaking view of Kang Bum, standing tall at 6526m. After approximately three hours of climbing, we will arrive at Jhari La, positioned at 4750m. From this vantage point, we catch our first glimpse of Shinchen La, the pass we will traverse the following day. Towards the north, the prominent snow-capped peak of Tiger Mountain (6740m) dominates the horizon. If the weather permits, we may also be treated to the sight of Tsheringmeigang and the majestic summit of Jomolhari. Given the relatively short duration of today's trek, you might consider embarking on a climb to Jhari Peak (4935m), located adjacent to the pass, for an enhanced panoramic vista. The round trip to the peak will take slightly over an hour. Following the descent, we will reach Tsheri Jathang, a herder's camp situated above the river, nestled within a scenic wide valley. This area serves as a migratory ground for herds of takin, Bhutan's national animal, during the summer months, making it a designated takin sanctuary. Continuing a bit further uphill, we will finally arrive at our campsite, Robluthang, nestled on a rocky meadow. Today's trek offers a mix of captivating mountain views, encounters with Bhutan's unique wildlife, and the serene beauty of the valley landscapes.

Covering a distance of 17 km, today's trek will take approximately 6-7 hours to complete. With an ascent of 850m and a descent of 870m, the campsite awaits us at an altitude of 4140m. We embark on our journey with an initial 40–60 minute ascent, followed by a gradual climb for another one and a half hours through a boulder field. A one-hour steep ascent awaits us, thereafter, leading us to the pinnacle of our trek, Shinchen La (5010m) - the ultimate and highest pass on this remarkable adventure (this marks the highest point of the Snow leopard trek). As we descend the other side of the pass, an awe-inspiring sight awaits us - a remarkable terminal moraine and a glacial lake nestled at the foot of the valley. Along the way, we'll have the opportunity to observe prime examples of lateral moraines, where the force of the glacier has pushed rocks up both sides of the valley, creating a striking natural formation. Descending further, we cross the Kango Chu (river) and soon arrive at the Limithang campsite. Even though Tiger Mountain looms in the distance, its imposing peak still commands attention and adds to the grandeur of our campsite.

Covering a distance of 10 km, today's trek is expected to take around 4-5 hours to complete. With a gentle ascent of 60m and a descent of 350m, our campsite awaits us at an altitude of 3850m. Our journey today takes us on a captivating downhill path that winds along a narrow river valley. After several days of trekking, we find ourselves immersed in a densely forested region, which gradually opens up to reveal the western side of Laya village. From here, we'll be treated to breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Tiger Mountain (6740m) and Masagang (7194m). As we arrive in the village centre, you'll notice a community school and a basic healthcare unit, serving as vital resources for the local community. Our campsite is nestled below the school, providing a serene setting to rest and rejuvenate. Take the opportunity to explore the village, immersing yourself in the unique culture of the indigenous Layap people. You may encounter Layap women donning traditional conical bamboo hats adorned with colourful beads, a distinctive feature of their attire. If you are welcomed into a local home, you may have the chance to savour their hospitality, including a taste of the locally brewed spirit known as 'ara' and other delectable delicacies.

Spanning a distance of 19 km and estimated to take 7-8 hours, today's trek involves an ascent of 1,030m and a descent of 750m. Our campsite awaits us at an altitude of 4160m. Leaving Laya behind, we embark on a descent towards an army camp, tracing the path alongside the flowing river. As we continue our journey, we reach a pivotal junction that leads us to Rodophu. After a well-deserved lunch break, the trail begins to ascend, winding its way through picturesque rhododendron bushes. Our perseverance will be rewarded as we eventually arrive at the campsite situated next to the tranquil Rodo Chu (river), offering a serene backdrop for our stay at Rodophu.

Covering a distance of 15 km and expected to take 7-8 hours, today's trek involves an ascent of 740m and a small descent. Our campsite awaits us at an altitude of 4900m. We commence our journey by tracing the path along the river for approximately thirty minutes. From there, a steady climb takes us to a high open valley, reaching an elevation of 4600m. The ascent continues, leading us to the majestic Tshomo La at 4900m. This vantage point provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Lunana, Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and even the distant Tibetan border. Crossing a flat and barren plateau around 5000m, we proceed towards our campsite nestled beneath the towering peak of Gangla Karchung (6,395m). The rugged beauty of the surroundings will captivate your senses, offering a unique and awe-inspiring camping experience at Narithang.

Covering a distance of 17 km and expected to take 6-7 hours, today's trek involves a 300 m ascent and a significant 1200m descent. Our campsite awaits us at an altitude of 3970m. Starting from the camp, we embark on a climb that lasts approximately one hour, leading us to the magnificent Gangla Karchung La at an impressive altitude of 5100m. From this vantage point, prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking panorama before you. The entire range of majestic mountains unfolds, including the awe-inspiring peaks of Jejekangphu Gang (7190m), Tsenda Gang (7200m), and Teri Gang (7300m). As we descend from the pass, a mesmerising view awaits us along the path, where a massive glacier gracefully cascades down from Teri Gang, flowing into a deep turquoise lake nestled at its base. It's worth noting that this area witnessed a significant event in the early 1960s when a glacial lake burst through its natural barrier, resulting in extensive damage, and partially destroying Punakha Dzong. Our journey continues with a long descent through dense rhododendron forests, leading us to the picturesque Tarina valley. Along the banks of the Tang Chu (river), several excellent campsites await, offering serene surroundings for rest and rejuvenation. Although the day's trek is not particularly arduous, we will venture approximately one hour further to a large boulder that serves as our camping spot. Locally known as ‘Dead Man's Camp’ (Tarina is the name of the whole valley). This name comes from a past incident where a tourist tragically succumbed to high altitude sickness. Rest assured, with proper acclimatisation, there is no need for concern. However, our Bhutanese staff may harbour tales of ghosts associated with the area.

Covering a distance of 12 km and estimated to take 4-5 hours, today's trek involves a gentle ascent of 340m and a descent of 200m. Our campsite awaits us at an altitude of 4450m. Embarking on the day’s trek, we venture through enchanting conifer forests, following the upper ridges of the Pho Chu (the father river that flows through Punakha). Along the way, be prepared to witness the mesmerising sight of impressive waterfalls cascading down the landscape. The trail then takes us over a ridge, leading to the village of Woche after approximately 2.5 hours of walking. As the first settlement in the Lunana region, this quaint village comprises a few houses. Interestingly, the trail leading southwest from here is the preferred route for locals seeking to reach the Punakha valley swiftly and access ‘civilisation’. Take some time to immerse yourself in the village atmosphere, exploring its surroundings or perhaps visiting a local shop to get a glimpse of the community's daily life. In the afternoon, we continue for another 1.5 hours, traversing the picturesque landscape alongside the serene Woche Chu (river), until we reach our campsite.

Prepare for a challenging and demanding day ahead as we cover a distance of 19km, with an estimated duration of 7-8 hours. The journey involves an ascent of 980m and a descent of 1190m, leading us to a campsite situated at an altitude of 4200m. Our trek commences amidst the enchanting juniper and fir forests, immersing us in the serenity of nature. As we proceed, the path takes us through vibrant rhododendron bushes, adding splashes of colour to our surroundings. A gradual climb brings us to the remarkable Keche La, standing at an impressive elevation of 4700m. From this vantage point, we are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the majestic mountains that surround us, captivating our senses once again. Descending from the pass, we find ourselves walking alongside the tranquil riverside, passing through a village that offers a breathtaking panorama, including the magnificent Table Mountain and other majestic peaks. Continuing our journey, we follow the course of the river until we reach Lhedi village, which boasts essential facilities such as a basic health unit and a school. Our campsite will be set up near the village, providing us with a well-deserved resting place.

Prepare for a fulfilling day ahead as we embark on a journey covering a distance of 16km, with an estimated duration of 6-7 hours which is slightly easier than the previous days. During this time, we will experience an ascent of 450m, reaching a camp altitude of 4250m. If the weather remains clear, be prepared to witness breathtaking views of the magnificent Table Mountain, which stands tall at an impressive 7100m. As we proceed on our trek, around midday, we will pass through the charming village of Chozo, situated at an elevation of 4090m. This village is home to a dzong that is still in active use, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Continuing our journey, we return to the picturesque village of Thanza. From this vantage point, we are greeted with a splendid view of Table Mountain, its towering presence creating a magnificent wall of snow and ice, reaching a staggering height of 3000m. While Thanza offers suitable camping options, it is worth noting that many groups prefer to set up camp in the nearby Thoencha, which provides an equally scenic and convenient location.

Take a moment to unwind and rejuvenate as we spend a day in the captivating village of Thanza. You have two choices: indulge in some well-deserved rest, recuperating from the challenging leg of our trek, or embark on a rewarding 1-2-hour hike to the neighbouring villages. Thanza village, a hidden gem, embodies an untouched, medieval-like society. Its inhabitants proudly wear handcrafted garments, meticulously weaving and dyeing their own materials. They adorn themselves with unique hats, boots, and jewellery, showcasing their distinctive cultural identity. Their homes are a testament to their craftsmanship, constructed with sturdy stone walls, hand-hewn wood shingles, and clay mortar. Sustained by a diet of grain accompanied by yak meat and cheese sourced from the lower valleys, they have cultivated a self-sufficient lifestyle. For those seeking a panoramic experience, another option awaits - the opportunity to trek to the viewpoint situated at 4800m. From this elevated vantage point, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains, a sight to behold. It's worth noting that Thanza boasts a mobile phone network, including data connectivity. If you wish, you can take advantage of this modern convenience to check your emails and update your social networks, ensuring you stay connected with the world beyond the remote beauty of this village.

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating day of trekking as we embark on the journey towards Bumthang. Covering a distance of 19km and spanning approximately 8-9 hours, this leg of the trek will take us to the highest campsite at an altitude of 5350m. Our adventure begins by ascending a ridge, treating us to breathtaking vistas of Table Mountain and the enchanting Thanza valley below. As we ascend, the ridge gradually gains elevation from 4500m, reaching a height of 4650m. The panoramic views from this vantage point are truly awe-inspiring. After a rejuvenating lunch, we continue our upward journey, heading towards the left side of the bridge. Here, we are rewarded with magnificent views of snow-capped mountains, their majestic peaks captivating our senses. With determination and perseverance, we conquer additional ridges, each one bringing us closer to our final destination.

We embark on a truly remarkable day of the trek, covering a distance of 21km over a span of 7-8 hours, with our campsite situated at an altitude of 4200m. Brace yourself for an experience that will leave you in awe. Our journey commences with a brief ascent to the magnificent Tshorim Tsho (lake), an absolute gem among Bhutan's mountain lakes. The scenery that unfolds as we walk alongside the lake is simply breathtaking, offering a sweeping panoramic view of the majestic Gophu La ranges. The climax of the day awaits as we approach the final climb to the illustrious pass of Gophu La, standing proudly at an impressive altitude of 5450m. Although the ascent is not lengthy, it marks the pinnacle of our trek, both in terms of altitude and significance. After conquering the pass, we descend to our campsite, tracing the path along the ridge. As we make our way, we are treated to a magnificent view of Gangkar Puensum (7570m), an iconic mountain that proudly holds the title of the world's tallest unclimbed peak. For those seeking an even more awe-inspiring perspective, you can take a different route to the left to ascend the pyramid peak, revealing an even grander vista or you can just go straight down to our campsite by the Sha Chu (river).

Covering 18km in 7-8 hours, with our campsite situated at an altitude of 4200m, the trail unfolds along the scenic Sha Chu (river). After a gradual descent to Minchungang (4200m), brace yourself for a challenging ascent to Neyphu La (4400m). Descend once more before ascending to Saga La (4900m) approximately 2 hours later. Finally, enjoy a one-hour descent to reach Warathang.

Covering a distance of 12km in 4-5 hours, with our campsite situated at an altitude of 3590m, our day begins with a brief ascent to Neyphu La (4400m). Following the pass, we start on a lengthy and challenging descent through dense rhododendron, juniper, and conifer forests, leading us to the riverside. Once we cross the bridge, a short climb awaits us, leading to the breathtaking Dur Tshachu hotsprings. These magnificent hot springs, believed to have been frequented by Guru Rinpoche, offer a splendid retreat to relax and freshen up after the exertions of the previous days.

Covering a distance of 22km in 8-9 hours, with a significant ascent of 1500m and a descent of 700m, we begin our day refreshed from the invigorating hot springs. As we set off, the landscape transitions from a mixed forest to a juniper forest. The challenging climb to Gogtong La (4600m) awaits us, taking approximately 3-4 hours. After descending from the pass and enjoying a well-deserved lunch, we embark on a 1.5-hour ascent to Juley La (4600m). This marks a moment for a small celebration, as it is the final pass of our trek! Our journey concludes as we descend to the picturesque Tshochenchen campsite, nestled by a serene stream in a place known as Khurpang.

Over the course of 15km, we will descend for approximately 5 hours through a scenic mixed pine forest. Our journey leads us to the road head located in Dur village, where a bus will be waiting to collect us. We will take the opportunity to savour refreshments and bid a proper farewell to our dedicated trekking staff. Soon, we will head to Jakar village, the quaint main town of the Bumthang region. There, civilisation awaits, along with the comforts of our hotel and a well -deserved hot shower, marking the end of our 22-day trekking adventure.

After the conclusion of our trek, we will enjoy the delights of the valley of Bumthang. We will do a bit of sightseeing, visiting temples such as Jambey, Kurjey and Tamshing. As an added treat we will stop at the Red Panda brewery where we will indulge in beer tasting as well as have time to wander through the streets of Jakar with its traditional shops, charming streets, and unique character. Overnight: Swiss guest house (B, L, D)

We will set out early to commence our journey back to the western region. Our first destination is the charming village of Chumey, located on the outskirts of the scenic Bumthang region. This village is renowned for its exquisite traditional textile called yathra. As we cross the Yotong La, at an elevation of 3400m, we will gradually descend towards Trongsa. In Trongsa, we will have the opportunity to explore the grandeur of Trongsa dzong, which happens to be the largest dzong in Bhutan. Further along we will make a brief stop at the Chenebji chorten. This structure, inspired by the renowned Boudhanath stupa in Kathmandu, is a favoured picnic spot amongst locals and tourists alike. Finally, after crossing the Pele La, a pass that separates eastern and western Bhutan, we will arrive at the captivating glacial valley of Phobjikha. This enchanting valley serves as the habitat for the endangered, black-necked crane that migrate to the region during the winter from Tibet. We will have ample time to wander through the area and pay a visit to the informative crane information centre. Overnight: Traditional farmhouse (B, L, D)

On our way back we will stop for a short stroll through rice fields to the temple known as Chimi Lhakhang, a sacred site dedicated to the revered 15th century Buddhist saint known as Drukpa Kunley or the ‘Divine Madman’ due to his unconventional methods of imparting Buddhist teachings through song, drink, and engaging in sexual exploits. It is also known as a fertility temple, famous for blessing childless couples with children. After lunch, we will visit Punakha dzong, a magnificent dzong on the banks of the Mo Chu (mother river) and Pa Chu (father river) and founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (the founding father of Bhutan) in 1637. We will also visit the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. Before retiring for the night, we will visit the beautiful Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup nunnery which is perched atop a lofty hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Overnight: Zhingkham resort (B, L, D)

First thing after breakfast, we will head to the upper Punakha valley to walk through lush paddy fields to the beautiful temple known as Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Lhakhang. The leisurely walk to the temple will take around an hour. From there we will be able to enjoy stunning views of the lush green valley and meandering river. After an early lunch we will head back to Paro. Rest and farewell celebration dinner for a job well done! Overnight: Khangkhu resort (B, L, D)

Free time to relax this morning before you leave for the airport and onward flights. In Bhutan we never say goodbye as we always believe we will have the good fortune of meeting again. So, from the team at Touch Bhutan Travel, we sincerely hope you enjoyed travelling with us. Take care until next time. (B)