Bhutan- Jomolhari Trek
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Budget
NPR 100
Per Person
Rating
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Duration
12 Days
Trip Overview
Bhutan Chomolhari Trek – A Himalayan Journey to the Goddess Mountain
The Chomolhari Trek, also spelled Jomolhari, is one of Bhutan’s most celebrated high-altitude treks. It offers an extraordinary blend of mountain wilderness, sacred landscapes, and cultural depth. This challenging 8- to 12-day trek takes you deep into the Bhutanese Himalayas, up close to Mount Chomolhari (7,314 m)—a peak considered sacred as the dwelling place of a Buddhist goddess. For trekkers seeking awe-inspiring nature and spiritual solitude, the Chomolhari Trek is among Bhutan’s finest adventures.
Geography
The Chomolhari Trek traverses the northwestern region of Bhutan, close to the border with Tibet. The route starts from the Paro Valley and climbs gradually through rhododendron forests, yak herder settlements, and high alpine meadows, eventually reaching the base camp at Jangothang, one of the most breathtaking camping spots in the Himalayas. From here, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of Chomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tshering Gang—snow-covered peaks that dominate the skyline.
The trek continues across high passes like the Nyile La (4,870 m) and Yale La (4,930 m) before descending into the Thimphu Valley or ending in Shana, depending on the chosen route variation. The landscape ranges from lush forests to windswept alpine tundra, offering incredible biodiversity and stunning contrasts.
People and Climate
During the trek, you’ll encounter remote yak herding communities, whose lives are deeply connected to the land and local spiritual traditions. These hardy mountain dwellers live in stone huts and migrate seasonally with their animals. Despite the isolation, they are warm, welcoming, and proud of their heritage.
The trail also passes several ancient monasteries and chortens (stupas), adding a spiritual element to the journey. Bhutanese people across the country share deep respect for nature, rooted in their Mahayana Buddhist beliefs.
The best time for the Chomolhari Trek is spring (April to mid-June) and autumn (late September to early November). These seasons offer clear skies, excellent mountain views, and stable weather. Days are generally sunny and cool, while nights—especially at higher elevations—can be freezing.
Transportation
The trek begins in Paro, home to Bhutan’s only international airport. Most travelers arrive via flights from Kathmandu, Delhi, or Bangkok. After a day of acclimatization in Paro, which often includes a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), the trek starts from the nearby village of Shana.
The entire trekking experience is supported by a team of licensed guides, cooks, and horsemen. Pack animals (usually yaks or horses) carry the gear, food, and tents. All logistics—including meals, sleeping arrangements, and campsite setup—are managed by the tour operator, allowing trekkers to focus fully on the journey.
Package Highlights:
- Traverse beautiful landscapes from lush valleys to dense forests,
- Discover Bhutan’s unique culture up-close with farmhouse visits and village excursions,
- Spend time Marveling at the ancient wall paintings and carvings in Dzongs and temples,
- Discover some of the most sacred Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Himalaya,
- Experience fabulous views of snow-capped mountains such as Mt. Jumolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake,
- Camp overnight at the base of Mt Jumolhari,
- Visit many cultural attractions including medieval fortresses (Dzongs), markets and museums,
- Hike up to the famous Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff 900m above the valley floor,
- Incorporate a Value-Added Option such as a cooking lesson or meditation session with a monk.
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Trip Information
Start : Kathmandu
Finish : Kathmandu
Difficulty :
Moderate
Max Altitude : 
Group Size : 
Season :
Trip Gallery
Trip Itinerary
When you arrive at Paro International Airport, our
representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening
you will visit Paro town and market and stay overnight at your hotel in Paro.
We
will drive to Drukgyel Dzong (2,580 m) from where the road ends. and we will
start our trek with from Gunitsawa village, where we will pass the army post,
where our permit will be checked and approved, the trail goes, and it follows
the Paro Chhu Passing beautiful paddy fields, meadows and impressive farm
houses. Continue following the trail, we will reach our destination Sharna
Zampa and stay overnight.
Today’s
hike will be a bit long and will include a lot of slight ups and downs. In a
few hours we will hike through the river valley and up the mountain into Jigme
Dorje National Park. The trail then narrows to a path that leads to a meadow
where we set up camp for the night. From here, weather permitting, we will get
our first glimpse of the beautiful Mt. Jomilhari
If
we missed the chance to see the beautiful Mount Jomolhari last night, we had a
chance to enjoy the beautiful view this morning. After enjoying the view, we
will continue our hike to the Paro Chhu Valley, passing through large alpine
meadows and sparse forests and passing a military outpost. We will hike through
the villages of Soe, Takethang and Dangochang which is another highlight of the
day. Arriving at Jangothang, one of the most beautiful camping spots in the
Himalayas, we will again be treated to a stunning view of Mount Jomolhari. We
will stay overnight in Jangothang.
Acclimatization
day in Jangothang will give us plenty of possibilities for the whole day. We
can hike on lakes with beautiful views of snow-capped mountains such as
Jomolhari and Jinchu Drake, and we will have another good chance to spot some
blue sheep on the upper slopes of the valley. Trek up to Tosoh or hike around
the area, there are good and short hiking trails in three directions. Jomolari
Peak and its affiliated ranges are due west, Jichu Drake Peak is to the north,
and there are many unclimbed peaks to the east. Jangothang will provide us a
perfect environment for acclimatization. We will have a great night at
Jangothang.
The
trek today will lead us to Lingshi. When we begin our trek from Jangothang
Camp, we will hike rapidly for about half an hour, and then the trail becomes
gradually ascend to the Nyilila Pass at 4,870m, we can enjoy with the
surrounding views of snow-capped mountains, and see herds of blue sheep grazing
on the slope of mountains. From the pass we get a stunning view of the Jichu
Drake, Jomolhari and Tsherimgang peaks which are over 7,000 meters above sea
level. On the way down to the Camp, we will pass by some of the yak herder's
tent, made from yak wool. As we come down into the Lingshi basin, we will get a
wonderful view of Lingshi Dzong. Tslimgang and its glacier are located at the
northern end of the valley. The campsite is located next to a stone house in
front of Lingshi Dzong. We will stay in Lingshi.
The
mountain road starting from Lingshi climbs all the way to Yelila Pass at an
altitude of 4,930 meters. On a clear day, you can see the magnificent scenery
of Mt. Tsherimgang, Jomolhari, and Masanggang from the pass. Our hike from the
pass to the campsite at Shodu was a steep, downhill climb. We will enjoy the
evening in Shodu.
The
trail will take us to Barshong, following the Thimphu Chhu through rhododendron
forests, passing beautiful waterfalls along the way. The valley narrows until
the path takes us to the slopes and gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong
Dzong. We will have nigh break in Barshong.
The
trek today descends down to the Thimphu Chhu River valley, and leads us through
dense forests of rhododendron, birch, maples, conifer and bamboos. Then, the
trail then ascends to the pasture. The campsite is located on a meadow in Dolam
Kencho.
The
trail takes us further through the forested area, winding and crossing a small
mountain pass. We can see monkeys along the way. In Dodena we will leave Jigme
Dorji National Park and reach the road next to an impressive cantilever bridge.
Drive us to Thimphu for overnight stay.
We
will have full day sightseeing in Thimphu valley, visiting the following, as
time permits: National Memorial Chorten; Tashichho Dzong (“the fortress of the
glorious religion”); National Library; Institute for Zorig Chusum (Bhutanese
arts and crafts school); National Institute of Traditional Medicine (outside
only); Handicrafts Emporium, evening drive to Paro, and overnight at the hotel
in Paro.
After
breakfast, drive to Paro airport for flight to onward destination.
Cost Includes
1. Visa & Fees
- Visa & SDF: Bhutan visa processing and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourism in Bhutan.
2. Camping & Meals
- Camping Equipment: All necessary camping gear provided for a comfortable trekking experience.
- Full Board Meals: All meals included during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner – BLD).
3. Staff
- Trekking Guide & Crew: Experienced trekking guide and full crew (including cooks and support staff) to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
4. Transportation
- Transport: Comfortable private vehicle for all transfers and necessary transportation during the trek.
1. Visa & Fees
- Visa & SDF: Bhutan visa processing and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourism in Bhutan.
2. Camping & Meals
- Camping Equipment: All necessary camping gear provided for a comfortable trekking experience.
- Full Board Meals: All meals included during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner – BLD).
3. Staff
- Trekking Guide & Crew: Experienced trekking guide and full crew (including cooks and support staff) to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
4. Transportation
- Transport: Comfortable private vehicle for all transfers and necessary transportation during the trek.
Cost Excludes
1. Flights
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Bhutan.
2. Travel Insurance
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering unforeseen circumstances, medical emergencies, and trip cancellation.
3. Personal Expenses
- Personal Nature Expenses: Costs for shopping, additional personal items, and other individual expenditures.
4. Tips & Gratuities
- Tips & Gratuities: Optional but customary for guides, porters, and other support staff.
1. Flights
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Bhutan.
2. Travel Insurance
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering unforeseen circumstances, medical emergencies, and trip cancellation.
3. Personal Expenses
- Personal Nature Expenses: Costs for shopping, additional personal items, and other individual expenditures.
4. Tips & Gratuities
- Tips & Gratuities: Optional but customary for guides, porters, and other support staff.
Essential Info
Permits and Regulations
Bhutan maintains strict tourism policies to preserve its environment and culture. All international visitors (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
A visa is issued only after confirming your prepaid, guided tour and paying the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which supports education, healthcare, and environmental protection.
Special permits are required for trekking in protected areas like Chomolhari, and your tour operator will arrange all necessary paperwork. Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens must obtain a permit and may also require additional trekking clearances.
Extra Info
Why Choose the Chomolhari Trek?
The Chomolhari Trek is a journey through some of the most untouched and majestic parts of the Himalayas. Unlike commercialized treks in neighboring countries, this route offers solitude, authenticity, and spiritual resonance. You'll walk through ancient forests, sleep under a canopy of stars near a sacred peak, and connect with a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.For adventurous travelers with a love for high mountains and rich culture, the Chomolhari Trek is not just a hike—it’s a pilgrimage to Bhutan’s sacred heights.
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