Jomolhari Trek in Bhutan.
The Jomolhari Trek in Bhutan is a renowned trekking route that takes adventurers through Jangothang, Paro, and the base of Mt. Jomolhari. This trek is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, crossing high-altitude passes and passing through Yak herders’ camps, offering an authentic glimpse into Bhutan’s pristine wilderness.
Trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Jichu Drake, and can encounter diverse wildlife such as Blue Sheep and other unique species. The trek combines natural beauty with cultural richness, making it one of Bhutan’s most sought-after trekking experiences.
Jomolhari Trek in Bhutan
Highlights of the trip:
- Trek duration: 7 days.
- Starting point: Shana, Paro & end point: Drugyal dzong, Paro.
- Highest point: Bonte La pass at 4890 m.
- Best time: March – End of May & October – mid December.
- Scenic mountain landscapes.
- Diverse flora and fauna.
- Yak herders’ camp.
- Ancient monasteries, temples & dzongs.
- Meet local people.
- Pristine villages and farmhouses.
Sketch itinerary:
- Day 01. Arrive Paro and sightseeing | Altitude: 2280 m.
- Day 2. Paro – Hike to Tiger’s nest monastery (Paro Taktsang) – Shana | 7 Km | Hike: 2 hours.
- Day 3. Shana – Thang Thangka (Yaktsa trek) | 22 Km | Hike: 7 – 8 hours | Altitude: 3610 m.
- Day 4. Thang Thanka – Jangothang (Yaktsa trek) | 19 Km | Hike: 5 – 6 hours | Altitude: 4080 m.
- Day 5. Jangothang Halt (Yaktsa trek) | Altitude: 4080 m.
- Day 6. Jangothang – Dhumzo (Yaktsa trek) | 16 Km | Hike: 7 – 8 hours | Altitude: 4890 m.
- Day 7. Dhumzo – Thombushong (Yaktsa trek) | 14 Km | Hike: 5 – 6 hours | Altitude 4550 m.
- Day 8. Thombushong – Zankepang (Yaktsa Trek) | 18 Km | 7 – 8 hours | Altitude: 4300 m.
- Day 9. Zankepang – Drugyal dzong – Thimphu | 7 Km | Hike: 2 hours | Drive: 70 Km – 1 1/2 hours drive.
- Day 10. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 11. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing – Thimphu | 76 Km | Drive: 3 hours.
- Day 12. Thimphu – Paro (Departure).
Jomolhari Trek cost:
The Jomolhari base camp trek cost given below is inclusive of sustainable development fee (SDF) of US $ 100 per person per night and Bhutan visa fee US $ 40 per person.
Entrance fees for monuments and festivals visits to be paid separately.
The Yaktsa trek cost / price for different group sizes are below:
- 2 people: US $ 4790 per person.
- 3 – 10 people: US $ 4590 per person.
Nature of trip: Privately guided Bhutan trip.
Detailed Itinerary for Jomolhari trek.
Day 1. Arrive Paro and sightseeing | Altitude 2280 m.
Upon arrival at Paro Airport, your guide will welcome you and drive you to your hotel.
In the afternoon, begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, where you can explore Bhutan’s rich history, culture, and artifacts. Afterward, head to Rinpung Dzong, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, an impressive fortress-monastery known for its stunning Bhutanese architecture and strategic location.
In the evening, enjoy a visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, where you can experience the local lifestyle, culture, and hospitality firsthand.
End the day with a delicious dinner at the hotel, followed by an overnight stay.
Day 02. Hike to Tiger’s nest monastery – Shana.
In the morning, drive to Satsam chorten and 2 hours hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery (Paro Taktsang). Legend has it that Guru Padma Sambhava, the tantric mystic flew here on the back of a flying tiger.
Afternoon, visit to Drugyal dzong built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
Then visit Kichu lhakhang built in 659 A.D by the Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo. He built 108 temples in a single day to pin the ogress to the earth forever.
In the evening, drive to Shana (22 km. 2 hour drive).
Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Day 3. Shana – Thang Thangka | 22 Km | Hike: 7 – 8 hours | Altitude: 3610 m.
The trail winds along the river, taking you through a lush, heavily forested area interspersed with a few isolated farmhouses, offering glimpses of rural Bhutanese life. The journey showcases the serene beauty of nature, with towering trees and the soothing sound of flowing water accompanying you.
After a long day of trekking, you’ll reach the campsite, nestled in a picturesque meadow with a stone shelter, providing a tranquil spot to rest for the night.
Altitude: 3610 m | Distance: 22 km | Time: 7–8 hours | Ascent: 770 m | Descent: 10 m.
Day 4. Thang Thanka – Jangothang | 19 Km | Hike: 5 – 6 hours | Altitude: 4080 m.
In the morning, the trail leads through Tegethang, a winter grazing ground for yak herders, offering a fascinating glimpse into their traditional lifestyle. Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous yaks dotting the landscape, adding to the charm of the journey.
As you approach the Jomolhari base camp at 4,115 m, breathtaking views of high mountains surround you. Nearby, the ruins of an ancient fortress, once used to guard Bhutan from Tibetan invasions, stand as a historical landmark.
Altitude: 4080 m | Distance: 19 km | Time: 5–6 hours | Ascent: 480 m.
Day 5. Jangothang Halt | Altitude: 4080 m.
In the morning, the trail leads through Tegethang, a winter grazing ground for yak herders, offering a fascinating glimpse into their traditional lifestyle. Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous yaks dotting the landscape, adding to the charm of the journey.
As you approach the Jomolhari base camp at 4,115 m, breathtaking views of high mountains surround you. Nearby, the ruins of an ancient fortress, once used to guard Bhutan from Tibetan invasions, stand as a historical landmark.
Altitude: 4080 m | Distance: 19 km | Time: 5–6 hours | Ascent: 480 m.
Day 6. Jangothang – Dhumzo | 16 Km | Hike: 7 – 8 hours | Altitude: 4890 m.
Today’s trek offers breathtaking views of Jomolhari, Jitchu Drake, and the valley leading to the Jomolhari camp. As you walk, you’ll pass several Yak herders’ camps and cross the picturesque Tsho Phu lake, with great chances of spotting a flock of Himalayan blue sheep.
The trail ascends gradually, taking you to Bonte La (4,900 m), the highest pass of this trek. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Highest point: 4890 m, duration 7 – 8 hours walk, distance – 16 Km.
Day 7. Dhumzo – Thombushong | 14 Km | Hike: 5 – 6 hours | Altitude 4550 m.
Today’s trek begins with a half-hour climb to Thombula, followed by a walk along a stunning ridge, offering beautiful panoramic views. From the pass, you will see several mountain peaks, with the closest being Jichu Drake (5,980 m).
After enjoying the views, you will descend through the trail, heading towards your next camp.
Dinner and overnight in camp.
Highest point: 4,300 m, Duration: 7-8 hours, Distance: 18 km (Long downhill)
Day 8. Thombushong – Zankepang | 18 Km | 7 – 8 hours | Altitude: 4300 m.
On this day, you will climb to Thombula, which takes about half an hour. After reaching the top, you’ll walk along a beautiful ridge offering breathtaking views of several mountain peaks, with the closest being Jomolhari (5980 m).
The trek involves a long descent, covering a distance of 18 km over 7-8 hours.
At the end of the day, you’ll camp overnight at an altitude of 4300 m.
Dinner and overnight in camp.
Day 9. Zankepang – Drugyal dzong – Thimphu | 7 Km | Hike: 2 hours | Drive: 70 Km – 1 1/2 hours drive.
On the final day of your trek, you will say goodbye to your trekking staff and horsemen. Afterward, you’ll walk to the road end for 2 hours to conclude the trek.
Once you reach the road, you will drive to Thimphu (70 km, approximately 2 hours drive).
In the afternoon, you’ll have some free time to explore the town, do some shopping, or take photographs.
Dinner and overnight in Hotel.
Day 10. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
Start the morning with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Then, explore the tallest sitting Buddha statue at Kuensel Phodrang, standing 51.5 meters tall. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, Thimphu’s oldest monastery built in the 13th century by Phajo Drugom Shigpo, and the Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal, believed to be a mix of a cow and goat. Enjoy the scenic Sangaygang Viewpoint, offering stunning views of Thimphu Valley, and visit Dupthop Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s few surviving nunneries.
Have lunch at Simply Bhutan Museum, an immersive cultural experience. In the afternoon, visit the Painting School, which showcases Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. End the day witnessing an archery match at Changlimithang Stadium, Bhutan’s national sport.
Conclude with dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 11. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing – Thimphu | 76 Km | Drive: 2 1/2 hours.
In the morning, drive to the beautiful Punakha Valley, stopping at Dochu La Pass (3140 m) to enjoy the breathtaking view of the higher Himalayas. Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, holds historical significance.
On the way, visit Chimi Lhakhang, built in 1499 to honor Lama Drukpa Kuenley, also known as “The Divine Madman.” The temple is affectionately called the “Temple of Fertility” as Drukpa Kuenley used humor, songs, and unconventional behavior to spread his teachings of salvation through sex.
In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong, the venue for the annual Punakha Festival, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This dzong remains the winter residence of the Je Khenpo and the monk body.
In the evening, drive back to Thimphu.
Dinner and overnight in the hotel.
Day 12. Thimphu – Paro (Departure) | 54 km | 1 hour.
After breakfast, drive to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your Bhutan adventure. Farewell and safe travels!
FAQs - Jomolhari Trek.
What can I expect to see on the Jomolhari Trek?
The trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari and Jitchu Drake, picturesque valleys, yak herder camps, glacial lakes, and forests. You may also see wildlife like blue sheep and takins.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
Accommodation is mostly in tents along the trek, with campsites set in scenic spots.
Can I trek the Jomolhari Trek if I have no trekking experience?
While previous trekking experience is beneficial, beginners with good fitness can still complete the trek with proper preparation. It’s important to acclimatize properly and listen to your body during the trek.
Are there any cultural sites along the Jomolhari Trek?
Yes, along the trek, you’ll visit Jomolhari Base Camp, Jichu Drake, and Tsho Phu Lake. You will also pass by Yak herder villages and may experience some aspects of local culture, including Buddhism and traditional Bhutanese lifestyles.
Do I need a permit for the Jomolhari Trek?
Yes, a special trekking permit is required, which can be arranged by your guide or Travel Agent. This permit covers the protected areas along the trek and ensures that the trekking route is monitored.
What should I pack for the Jomolhari Trek?
Essential items include warm layers, a waterproof jacket, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera. Be sure to bring a good quality trekking backpack and water bottles or hydration system.
Tour cost includes
- All meals [breakfast / lunch / dinner].
- Accommodation [twin / double sharing basis]. Single room supplement is extra.
- All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
- Sustainable development fee (SDF).
- Bhutan visa fee.
- English speaking local guide.
- Sightseeing.
- Bottled water.
Tour Cost Excludes
- Entrance fees for museums and monuments.
- Domestic/International flight (Drukair / Bhutan Airlines fares).
- Insurance premiums.
- Payments for service provided on a personal basis.
- Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.
- Cost for any services not mentioned in the “Cost Include head”.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks, etc...
- Tips for guide and driver
What to pack for a trek
- Personal clothing: strong normal clothing (according to season). Preferably cotton, even for summer, woolen clothing for the evening and winter.
- Strong comfortable trekking boots – water – resistant for the rainy period – June – August.
- Sunscreen.
- Flash light.
- Rain coat (especially for rainy period –June – August).
- Head gear / hat / cap; sun and rain protection.
- Water pills – for extra caution in purifying stream; (boiled water is provided at all times during the trek).
- Aspirin – incase of altitude sickness.
- Lots of socks.
- Warm clothes.
- Sunglasses.
Optional items:
- Head gear.
- Folding umbrella (only for wet months — July and August).
- One towel.
- Wet – packed tissue paper.
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