This Jomolhari Loop trek is the shortest of the Jomolhari trekking routes, which are the most popular treks in Bhutan. With altitude differences of 2,500m and nearly 5,000m it offers a wide range of landscapes, fauna and flora. The highlight of this trek is the spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari from Jomolhari Base Camp (Jangothang). Trekkers who want to avoid high passes and high altitude can choose an easier version of the Jomolhari Loop by retracing their steps from Jangothang (see days 1-3), while still having the majestic impressions of Mount Jomolhari.
The Right Time for Jomolhari Trek in Bhutan.
The rhododendron forest will be dense, the weather will be clear, and a variety of flora and fauna will be blooming during our trek in Bhutan, the spring season (March to May) is ideal for this trek. The autumn months (September to November) are also ideal for the Jhomolhari trek because of the fresh, clear weather and breathtaking mountain views.
Day 1: Arrive at Paro Valley. Welcome to Bhutan. 2200m. Acclimatize. (Lunch/ Dinner)
Arrive at the only international airport in Bhutan located in Paro – one of the most beautiful airports in the world – in a small but stunning valley. Experience an amazing descent into Paro valley with Druk Air. After quick immigration formalities Your travel team will welcome you the Bhutanese way at the exit. After introductions, we will head to Paro town for lunch.
Paro Valley is a picturesque and historic region located in the heart of Bhutan. Home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, including the Taktsang Monastery (also known as the Tiger’s Nest), Paro is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bhutan. Visitors to the valley will be struck by the natural beauty of the region, with lush green forests, sparkling rivers, and snow-capped mountains forming a stunning backdrop to the colorful traditional architecture.
In addition to its natural wonders, Paro is also rich in cultural heritage, with numerous temples, monasteries, and museums offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s fascinating history and vibrant culture. Whether hiking through the stunning landscapes or exploring the cultural treasures of the valley, Paro is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Next we will take you to visit Kyichu Lhakhang – Kyichu Lhakhang is located in the north of Paro town. It is the oldest and one of the most beautiful temples in Bhutan and it is considered to be the sacred Jewel of Bhutan. The main temple has roots as far back as the 7th century.
We then check into the hotel.
After lunch you will visit the Paro Dzong – Paro Dzong ranks as a high point of Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, especially when floodlit at night.
It was formerly the meeting hall for the National Assembly and now, like most dzongs, houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including the local courts. You can visit one of the chapels and it’s worth a visit for its stunning architecture and views.
The rest of the day will be spent at your leisure. You can rest, relax, recover, or you can head to town with your guide and chauffeur.
Dinner will be served at the hotel and we can have a short Q&A about your trek and the days ahead. Overnight at Paro Valley.
Day 2: Paro Valley. Tiger’s Nest Excursion. Acclimatize. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
Taktsang Lhakhang is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious site. The name Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. This temple is one of the most holy sites in the kingdom and clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley.
Taktsang Lhakhang is located approximately 10 km north of Paro town at an altitude of 3.120 m. In order to arrive at the temple visitors must trek for around 2-3 hours through beautiful, shady pine forests. No trip to Bhutan would be complete without a visit to this remarkable heritage site.
After breakfast at the hotel, our group will set out for the hike to the Tiger’s Nest monastery. The trail starts from the base of the mountain and winds its way up the hillside, passing through dense forests and along steep ridges.
As you hike, take in the breathtaking views of the valley below and the snow-capped peaks in the distance. Halfway up the mountain, stop at the cafeteria for a well-deserved break, sipping on hot tea and coffee.
With renewed energy, continue your journey to the Tiger’s Nest. The incredible monastery, perched precariously on a cliff face, is a sight to behold. Visitors are in awe of this stunning architecture and the rich cultural history of the place.
After exploring the monastery, you can head back down the mountain, stopping for a delicious lunch on the way. As you make your way back, you will be excited for your next adventure – a traditional hot stone bath.
The hot stone bath is a traditional Bhutanese therapy where stones are heated and placed in a wooden tub filled with water and local herbs. The heat from the stones and herbs is believed to have healing properties and promote relaxation.
Dinner will be planned back at the hotel. Overnight in Paro Valley.
Day 3 – Day One of Jhomolhari Trek. Paro to Shana to Soi Thangthangkha. 3610m. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
The stunning splendor of the old ruin known as Drugyel Dzong, which once housed a Buddhist monastery, is part of the route from Paro to Shana. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it bears witness to Bhutan’s lengthy history of conquest.
We reach the lush forest, tranquil rivers, rice and millet fields, and the view of high mountains after crossing Drukgyel Dzong in a downward direction. We will arrive in Shana after a 2 hour drive. Herding yaks, gathering herbs, manufacturing milk products, and other modest tasks are all part of the people’s daily lives in Shana. From Shana, we will begin our walk.
You will witness the tip of Mt. Jomolhari along the trek from Shana to Soi Thangthangkha. The Jigme Dorji National Park will be our destination. We’ll be moving up and down forest paths for 7-8 hours. We’ll eventually arrive at our camp at Soi Thangthangkha where everything is already set up for you and a warm welcome for you with hot beverages and snacks.
Day 4 – Day Two of Jhomolhari Trek. Thangthangkha to Jangothang – 4080m. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
If you did not see Mt. Jomolhari the previous evening, you will still have a chance to get a great view early this morning.
This morning the trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley which widens into patches of alpine meadow and scanty growths of forest.
You will cross an army checkpoint along the way and enjoy a spectacular view of high mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks. In this area yaks and their herder’s homes become a regular feature of the landscape. Passing the villages Soe, Takethang and Dangochang is another asset on this day. After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites of the Himalayas, you will again have a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari.
Day 5 – Day Three of Jhomolhari Trek. Halt day at Jangothang, Jumolhari Base Camp. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
The rest day in Jangothang provides plenty of possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow capped mountains such as Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. There are good chances to spot some blue sheep on the upper slopes of the valley.
Jangothang is a perfect environment for your acclimatization. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area. There are good short hiking trails in three directions. Jomolhari and its subsidiary mountain chains lie directly west, Jichu Drake to the north and there are a number of unclimbed peaks to the east.
Day 6: Day Four of Jomolhari Trek. Jangothang to Soi Yaktsa. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
If we are lucky, we may encounter Himalayan wildlife such as Blue sheep, Snow Leopards, and golden marmots during the day. We start our day heading north from the campsite before descending down to Pa Chhu River. After crossing the River, trail then ascends gradually over to the hill from where we can have a beautiful view of Mt. Jhomolhari, Tsherimgang and Jichu Drakye.
From here the trail is relatively flat till we reach pair of Himalayan Lake, named Tshophu (4380 m). We continue our journey passing by the lakes trekking uphill for a while to the ridge, descend down to the valley and climbing steeply to Bhonte la pass (4890 m).
From the pass, we descend down following the yak trails to Soi Yaksa, our campsite for the night. It is a beautiful campsite decorated by few nomadic settlements, meadows, rocky cliff and a waterfall.
Day 7: Day Five of Jomolhari Trek. Soi Yaktsa to Thombu Shong. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
In the morning we start by trekking uphill through the shrubs of azaleas and rhododendrons to the ridge before descending down to the meadows where we reach to a small Chorten and a mani wall near a small stream.
Cross the stream and continue uphill for a while before descending down through a valley to a ridge where the trail divides into two. Take right from here and continue uphill trekking for about hour to Takhung La pass (4520 m). From here we will have a view of Mt. Jhomolhari, Jichu Drakye, Tsherimgang and Kanchenjunga at the distance.
The trail from the pass then drops down gradually to a beautiful meadow, our tonight’s campsite at Thombu Shong (4180 m).
Day 8: Day Six of Jomolhari Trek. Thombu Shong to Paro Valley. (Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner)
We follow the trail which leads us away from the valley, climbing up through the gardens of wild flowers and rhododendrons till we reach Thombu La pass at 4380 m. From here it is all downhill treks till Sharna zampa. Get ready with your walking stick as the descent will put quite a strain on your knees.
After descending for around 3 hours is Gunitsawa helipad. Down the road is where our diver and tour vehicle is waiting. Drive from here to Paro valley.
Upon arrival at your hotel, take some time to freshen up and unwind. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure in Paro. In the evening, we will host a cultural show featuring local drinks, followed by a farewell dinner. You are welcome to wear the national attire for the show, and our last night will be spent in Paro Valley.
Day 9: Farewell Bhutan. Departure. (Breakfast)
Following breakfast, we will depart for Paro airport where it will be time to say goodbye to your team in Bhutan. Wishing you a safe and pleasant onward journey.
What’s Included:
- Private guided tour.
- Visas for Bhutan.
- Airport transfers.
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) at designated restaurants, hotels.
- Accommodation at 3 star Bhutanese boutique hotels and resorts.
- A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide & trekking guide.
- An experienced driver.
- A tour vehicle.
- Entry fees & road permits
- Government Sustainable Development Fees, royalty, taxes & surcharges.
- Mineral bottled water, snacks and refreshments.
- Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip.
What’s included in trek
- Daily 3 meals, tea, coffee, snacks.
- Sleeping tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags & pillows.
- Dining tents, kitchen tent, shower, toilet tent.
- Tables, chairs, utensils, hot water bags.
- Trekking chef & assistants.
- Horses to carry trek equipment.
- Food supplies/ essentials, medicals, emergency equipment.
Cost per Person in a Group of 3 or more: USD 4278 per Person
Cost per Person in a Group of 1 or 2: USD 4748 per Person
Karma Dorji, the founder of Druk Heritage, is a true embodiment of Bhutanese hospitality and warmth. His passion for showcasing the beauty and culture of Bhutan to the world is contagious, and his attention to detail ensures that every guest of Druk Heritage receives a personalized and unforgettable experience. With over 15 years of experience in the tourism industry, Karma’s knowledge of Bhutan and its customs is unparalleled, making him the perfect guide for anyone looking to explore this mystical land. His dedication to sustainability and responsible tourism practices also make him a true ambassador for Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its natural environment and unique cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in trekking through the Himalayas, experiencing Bhutan’s traditional festivals, or simply soaking up the serene beauty of this enchanting country, Karma and his team at Druk Heritage will go above and beyond to ensure that your journey is nothing short of magical.
