14 days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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Duration: 14 Days Actual Trek: 8 Days
Maximum Elevation: 4,930 m
Grade: Moderate to Strenuous
Best Seasons: April–May | September–November
Overview
The Jomolhari Trek is Bhutan’s most iconic and sought-after trekking experience. This classic Himalayan journey offers breathtaking views of sacred snow peaks including Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Tsherim Gang, and Masagang. The trail winds through pristine alpine landscapes, high mountain passes, yak pastures, and the remote village of Lingshi, before descending toward the Thimphu valley. Combining dramatic scenery with rich cultural encounters, this trek is a perfect introduction to high-altitude trekking in Bhutan.
Arrive at Paro International Airport, enjoying spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan range (weather permitting). The dramatic descent into the Paro Valley sets the tone for an unforgettable adventure. On arrival, you will be warmly received by a representative of Experience Bhutan Travel and transferred to your hotel. Lunch at the hotel, followed by a leisurely evening to rest and acclimatize.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro (L/D)
After breakfast, drive about 14 km north of Paro Valley to the trailhead for Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic landmark. Hike through pine and rhododendron forests to the viewpoint café (about 1 hour), then continue uphill to the closest viewpoint overlooking the monastery. After lunch at the café, descend to the valley. If time permits, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and the National Museum.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro (B/L/D)
Distance: 17 km | Time: ~6 hours
Drive to Drukgyel Dzong, where the trek begins. Follow the Paro Chhu River gently uphill through cultivated fields and village settlements. The well-used trail passes through an army checkpoint at Gunitsawa before crossing the river to reach Shana campsite at 2,850 m.
Overnight: Camp (B/L/D)
Distance: 20 km | Time: ~8 hours
Continue trekking up the narrowing river valley. The trail undulates through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, birch, fir, and ferns, crossing several small streams. A long but rewarding day brings you to Thangthangkha campsite at 3,619 m.
Overnight: Camp (B/L/D)
Distance: 15 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Follow the Pa Chhu as the valley gradually widens. Pass a small army post and enjoy increasingly dramatic views of surrounding ridges and snow-capped peaks. Yak herders’ settlements may be seen depending on the season. Camp beneath the ruins of an ancient fortress at Jangothang, directly below Mount Jomolhari (4,080 m).
Overnight: Camp (B/L/D)
A rest and acclimatization day with optional excursions. Hike to Tsophu Lake for fishing or choose from several scenic hikes around the valley. Enjoy outstanding views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and surrounding unclimbed peaks.
Overnight: Camp (B/L/D)
Trek across wide yak pastures and ascend to Nyile La Pass (4,870 m). The pass is often windy, so descent follows promptly into the Lingshi basin. Enjoy stunning views of Lingshi Dzong and Mount Tsherim Gang. Camp near Lingshi village at 4,010 m.
Overnight: Camp or stone shelter (B/L/D)
Distance: 22 km | Time: ~8 hours
Ascend steadily to Yeli La Pass (4,920 m), one of the highest points of the trek. On clear days, enjoy panoramic views of Mount Jomolhari, Tsherim Gang, and Masagang. Descend through high-altitude terrain to Shodu campsite at 4,080 m.
Overnight: Camp (B/L/D)
Distance: 16 km | Time: ~6 hours
Follow the Thim Chhu (Thimphu River) through rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and narrowing gorges. Ascend to the ruins of Barshong Dzong, an ancient fortress overlooking the valley.
Overnight: Camp near Barshong Dzong (3,710 m) (B/L/D)
Distance: 15 km | Time: ~5 hours
Descend gradually to rejoin the Thim Chhu, passing through lush forest before ascending once again into open pastureland. Camp in a scenic meadow at Dolam Kencho (3,320 m).
Overnight: Camp (B/L/D)
Distance: 8 km | Time: ~4 hours
A gentle hike through forested trails and small passes. Wildlife sightings are possible. At Dodina, meet your vehicle and drive to Thimphu.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu (B/L/D)
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day cultural tour of Bhutan’s capital, including:
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu (B/L/D)
Drive back to Paro (approx. 1.5 hours), following the scenic Thimphu River valley. After lunch, visit:
Dinner and overnight in Paro.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro (B/L/D)
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your guide will bid you farewell and wish you a safe journey home.
TASHI DELEK!
There are 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, but the national language is Dzongkha. English is used throughout Bhutan’s education system, so it is widely used and understood.
Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied.
In the south, the humid, subtropical climate is fairly consistent year-round, with temperatures between 15oC and 30oC. Central Bhutan, with its temperate forests, has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are much colder during winter. Because of the high altitude, mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer.
In summer, the Indian monsoon season runs from late June or July to late September, mostly affecting the southern regions. Most farming activities take place in the summer, when crops thrive in verdant landscapes.
Autumn, from late September or early October to late November, follows the rainy season. It is characterised by bright, sunny days and some early snowfall at higher elevations. It’s the season of feasts and festivals as farmers reap the fruits of their work.
From late November until March, the crisp, clear and sunny winter sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall common above elevations of 3,000 metres. The winter northeast monsoon brings gale-force winds at the highest altitudes through high mountain passes, giving Bhutan the name Drukyul, which means Land of the Thunder Dragon in Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language).
Bhutan’s generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist’s delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.
Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India, require a visa before entering Bhutan. For all visitors, except those from Bangladesh and the Maldives, this visa must be applied for and approved in advance of travel. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, but this can be applied for and approved either in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan.
Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for a visa at their port of entry.
No, there are no restricted nationalities in Bhutan.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in our country’s growth.
The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people, through free healthcare, education and training, upskilling the tourism and hospitality industry, improved infrastructure, environmental preservation and conservation, cultural preservation programmes and initiatives that support local businesses and economies. The SDF is also a vital means of maintaining the exceptional forest cover and carbon-neutrality for which our small nation is world-renowned and globally critical. The SDF also helps us to ensure that we can continue to offer guests tranquillity and an intimate experience.
The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
You may bring cash equivalent to US$10,000 into the country.
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