Snowman Trek

Today, we will visit Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche meditated here in the 8th century, assuming the wrathful form of Guru Dorji Drolo to subdue a local deity. The first temple was built by Sonam Gyeltshen, a Nyingma Buddhist master, in the 16th century. In 1645, the site was offered to Zhabdrung, who instructed Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgay to build a temple. Tragically, a fire on April 19, 1998, damaged the monastery, but it was restored to its former glory by King Jigme Singye Wangchuk.

22 km/7-8 hrs /770m Ascent/10m descent

Your journey begins with a 27km drive north from Paro valley to Sharna Zampa at 2850m, the starting point of your trek. Upon arrival, your trekking crew awaits. After a brief meeting, you will start to trek after crossing the wooden bridge at 2850m. The trail continues with lots of small ups and downs. After going uphill through the river valley, the valley finally narrows gradually and to a mere path which descends to a meadow where a camp will be set up. From here, if weather permits, we will have the first great view of Mt. Jhomolhari.

19km/6-7 hrs/480m Ascent

Today’s trekking route may not be lengthy, but it involves a significant elevation gain as we ascend above the tree line. Starting from our camp, the path ascends until we reach an army camp. Following the river above the tree line, we're treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, we traverse through a muddy section of trail, pass by a mani wall, and enter yak territory. A hot lunch awaits us inside a yak herder’s camp. After lunch, we continue past yak herder settlements of Soe and Takethang. Local crops such as barley, potatoes, and turnips dot the landscape. Our final stretch takes us across a plateau and up a stream bed to Dangochang village, culminating in the spectacular campsite of Jangothang at 4040m. Here, the views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are simply stunning.

You'll embark on a four-hour acclimatization hike north of your camp, traversing open slopes without an established trail until you're rewarded with views of Mt. Jichu Drake (6989m). For those eager, a scramble to 4895m (higher than Mont Blanc) offers breathtaking vistas of Mount Jomolhari. Watch for rare wildlife such as blue sheep, griffon vultures, golden eagles, Himalayan rhubarb, and the exquisite blue poppy. Jangothang base is a flat, grassy area with an ancient ruined fortress atop a hillock, set against Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Due to the altitude, many experience mountain sickness here, making it a recommended rest point. Whether you hike or relax, today will be memorable.

18Km/6-7 hrs/840m Ascent/870m Descent

This scenic hike follows a stream for 30 minutes before crossing a bridge. Ascend the first ridge for stunning views of Himalayan giants like Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. After a flat section, conquer the Nyele La pass at 4870m. Descend gradually to your camp (4010m), taking in panoramic mountain vistas.

10km/5-6 hrs/280m Ascent/410m Descent

Explore Lingshi Dzong, a historic fort with panoramic views, followed by a leisurely walk-through of villages and yak herder camps. Enjoy lunch and then continue to Chebisa, a picturesque village with a waterfall. Camp by a stream for the night (3850m).

17km/6-7 hrs/890m Ascent/540m Descent

This challenging day features a nearly four-hour climb to Gogu La pass (4500m), where you might spot rare blue sheep. Descend through rhododendrons for lunch, then continue along a scenic path with ups and downs. Cross a stream and traverse rhododendron forests and yak herder camps before reaching Shakshepasa (3980m). The trek concludes with a steep climb to your final camp beside a stream, perched at 4220m.

18km/6-7 hrs/700m Ascent/760m Descent

Continuing the Snowman Trek, the trail winds through fields of edelweiss before a challenging ascent to Jari La Pass at 4,700 meters. Towering to the southeast, the snow-capped peak of Kangbum dominates the landscape at a staggering 6,526 meters. Descending to Tsarijathang Valley, a summer haven for the rare Himalayan Takin, you might encounter a stream crossing, with the footbridge potentially washed away. After navigating the stream, the path ascends once more to Robluthang, a rocky meadow camp nestled at 4,160 meters.

19km/6-7 hrs/850m Ascent/870m Descent

Brace yourself for the trek's highest pass, Shingchen La, at 5,005 meters. Ascend through boggy patches, streams, marmot holes, and moraine to reach the summit. Witness the awe-inspiring panorama of snow-capped Gangchenta (Tiger Mountain) dominating the north. A rough, rocky descent follows, traversing a moraine river valley and potentially another stream crossing. After navigating cedar forests, you'll arrive at Lingmethang (4,140 meters), a picturesque meadow campsite nestled by the river with majestic Tiger Mountain as your backdrop.

10km/3-4 hrs/60m Ascent/340m Descent

Awakened to the majestic sight of Gangchenta Peak gracing the horizon. Today's trek to Laya promises a delightful journey. Immerse yourself in the vibrant melody of singing birds as you traverse a damp mossy forest, culminating in the arrival at Laya, Bhutan's second-highest settlement perched at 3,840 meters.

Explore the charming village of Laya, Bhutan's second-highest settlement. Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals, who are always happy to offer a cup of tea or Chang, their local wine. The women of Laya adorn themselves in beautiful attire, featuring black wool Kira’s and unique conical bamboo hats decorated with turquoise, silver ornaments, and beads. Strike up a conversation and experience the rich culture of this remote community.

19km/7-8 hrs/1030m Ascent/70m Descent

Descend to the Lunana trail junction before tackling a scenic climb to a vantage point offering breathtaking views of the Mo Chhu and Rhodo Chhu rivers. The trail winds through the Rhodo Chhu Valley, transitioning from mixed conifers to rhododendron forests. Above the treeline, witness a dramatic glacial valley and the massive Tsenda Gang glacier towering at 7,100 meters. Your overnight camp awaits at Rodophu (4,160 meters), nestled just beyond a wooden bridge across the Rhodo Chhu River.

17km/5-6 hrs/720m Ascent/15m Descent

Prepare for a captivating day traversing alpine meadows teeming with yaks. The trail follows the river alongside rhododendron shrubs before ascending a right turn uphill. Conquer Tshomo La Pass (4,915 meters), and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Mount Jomolhari and the Tibetan border. Your journey continues across a barren plateau, intersecting yak trails before reaching your overnight destination, Narethang (4,900 meters).

18km/6-7 hrs/270M Ascent/1200m Descent

Brace yourself for the ascent of Ganglakarchung Pass, a formidable challenge at 5,120 meters. As you conquer the summit, be mesmerized by a panorama of towering peaks - Kangbum (6,530m), Tsenda Gang (7,100m), Teri Gang (7,300m), and Jejegangphu Gang (7,120m). The descent unveils massive moraines leading to the edge of a sheer cliff. Witness the glacial spectacle of Teri Gang hanging above two turquoise lakes at the base. Notably, the 1961 outburst of the left-hand lake caused a devastating flood downstream in Punakha, destroying the Mochu Bridge. Following a steep path down a U-shaped valley, you'll reach your camp at 4,350 meters, nestled beside the Tangchu stream.

17km/6-7 hrs/275m Ascent/330m Descent

Your journey continues along the Tangchu River, following a scenic trail lined with junipers and cascading waterfalls. A gentle climb out of the valley leads to a challenging ascent towards Woche village (4,350 meters), marking the first settlement in the Lunana region. As you settle into your camp, gaze upon tomorrow's path winding towards Lhedi, nestled above Woche.

17km/6-7 hrs/980m Ascent/950m Descent

Embark on the final ascent of your trek, traversing the Woche Valley and crossing a stream over the moraine. Descend to a wooden bridge spanning the Woche Chu River and climb past a pristine glacial lake. Conquer Keche La Pass (4,650 meters), rewarded with majestic views of surrounding mountains, including the triple peaks of Jejegangphu Gang. The path descends into the Pochu Valley, reaching Thaga village (4,050 meters). Be prepared for potentially chilly autumn winds in Thaga. From here, descend past scattered settlements and waterfalls alongside the Pho Chu Riverbed, finally arriving at Lhedi (4,200 meters). This charming village boasts a school, a basic health unit, and even a wireless station.

17km/4-5 hrs/400m Ascent

Enjoy a relaxed pace on today's trek, following the north bank of the Phochu River. Pass by charming farms before reaching Chuzo village (4,090 meters) around lunchtime. Take a detour to explore the historic Chezo Dzong, a cultural gem nestled in the valley. After lunch, the trail continues along the riverbed until a scenic climb takes you to a vantage point overlooking the Thanza Valley at 4,100 meters.

On your final day, choose between exploring Thanza village, a virtually untouched community where tradition reigns and villagers craft their clothing and jewelry. Alternatively, embark on a challenging hike to the glacial lakes of Raphstreng Tsho and Thorthormi Tsho, the source of the Phochu River, all while marveling at the towering, snow-capped Table Mountain.

20km/9-10hrs/750m Ascent/240m Descent

This leg of the trek involves a climb to a scenic viewpoint south of Thanza. After a relaxed walk, you'll reach Danji (4500m), a summer haven for yaks with a chance to spot blue sheep. Following a moderate climb with panoramic vistas, you'll arrive at a trail junction. Take the right path towards Jaze La Pass (5200m), offering breathtaking panoramas before descending through a landscape of snow-capped peaks and lakes to Tshochena (5000m).

14km/5-6 hrs/230m Ascent/140m Descent

Brace yourself for a challenging yet rewarding climb along the shores of a turquoise lake. Ascend a scenic ridge at 5,150 meters, offering breathtaking 360-degree vistas of snow-capped peaks. Gaze upon the distant Dochula La road and microwave tower. Traverse rolling hills and a glacial lake before conquering Loju La Pass (5,170 meters), a yak pasture with intricate trails. Descend through a wide glacial valley to Jichudramo camp (5,050 meters), the highest point of your trek.

15km/5-6 hrs/320m Ascent/730m Descent

Gear up for a challenging climb on a moraine path leading to the picturesque Rinchen Zoe Pass (5,350 meters). This pass marks the divide between Phochu and Mangdechu basins and boasts stunning views of Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan's highest peak (7,520 meters). Witness the stark contrast between the forests and the barren high-altitude terrain. The descent takes you through a marshy valley dotted with lakes, moraines, and yak pastures, before reaching Tampe Chu, nestled amidst rhododendron and juniper forests. Tonight's camp awaits at Thongsa Thang (4,400 meters).

18km/5-6 hrs/400m Ascent/640m Descent

Descend alongside a river, reaching the Galapang yak pasture (4,025 meters). Brace yourself for a steep climb through juniper and silver fir forests, culminating at Tampetsho. The trail follows a stream towards a stunning turquoise lake nestled amidst dramatic ridges. Camp tonight awaits at the lake's edge (4,320 meters).

14km/4-5 hrs/280m Ascent/1020m Descent

Prepare for a demanding climb to Thampe la Pass (4,600 meters), where sightings of blue sheep are frequent. Descend to Om tsho Lake, shrouded in legend - said to be the miraculous treasure trove of 15th-century saint Terton Pema Lingpa. The trail follows the lake's shore to its outlet marked by prayer flags. A steep descent past a waterfall leads to a smaller lake and finally the left bank of the Nika Chu River. After some time, you'll reach a large confluence with a major eastern tributary. Cross a wooden bridge and trek through mixed forests to Maurothang (3,620 meters) - your final camp, a vast open area with a yak herder's camp.

18km/5-6 hrs/990m Descent

Embark on the final descent, following a gentle path through a mix of deciduous and bamboo forests. Lush pastures and forests gradually give way to a sweeping vista overlooking the motor road and Sephu Village (2,650 meters). Here, your car awaits to whisk you away to Wangdue. Celebrate your incredible achievement with a relaxing overnight stay in Punakha.

Enjoy a rest day in Punakha with a visit to Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. Marvel at its intricate architecture and rich history, soaking in the serene beauty of one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks.

After breakfast, we will drive to Thimphu, passing through the scenic Dochula Pass. At an elevation of 3,100 meters, Dochula Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range, especially on clear days. The pass is adorned with 108 chortens (stupas), built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers. As we descend towards Thimphu, the landscape transitions from dense forests to the bustling city, providing a beautiful contrast and a glimpse into Bhutan’s diverse geography.

After breakfast, we will drive to the airport for departure. We wish you a safe journey.