Jomolhari track

The Jomolhari Trek is a popular trekking route in Bhutan, known for its stunning scenery, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences. It typically takes around 7 to 9 days to complete, depending on the route and pace. The trek usually starts from Paro Valley and takes you through beautiful alpine forests, high mountain passes, remote villages, and picturesque valleys, offering breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari (also spelled Chomolhari), which is one of the highest peaks in Bhutan.

The trek provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture, as you pass by traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and encounter local people along the way. It's also a chance to experience the pristine natural beauty of Bhutan, with its diverse flora and fauna.

The difficulty level of the Jomolhari Trek can vary depending on the route chosen, altitude, and weather conditions. It's important to be well-prepared, physically fit, and acclimatized to the altitude before undertaking this trek. Hiring a local guide and trekking agency is highly recommended, as they can provide valuable assistance, arrange permits, and ensure your safety throughout the journey.

Overall, the Jomolhari Trek is a memorable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Himalayan trekking experience combined with rich cultural insights.

Here's a typical itinerary for the Jomolhari Trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

• Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you'll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
• Spend the day resting, acclimatizing to the altitude, and exploring Paro town if time permits.
• Overnight in Paro.

Day 2: Paro Sightseeing

• Visit Paro's iconic attractions, including the Paro Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong (National Museum), and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.
• Prepare for the trek and attend a briefing with your guide.
• Overnight in Paro.

Day 3: Paro - Shana (Start of Trek)

• Drive to the trailhead at Drukgyel Dzong, the starting point of the trek.
• Begin trekking from Drukgyel Dzong to Shana (altitude: approximately 2,850 meters).
• Trekking distance: 17 kilometers, about 5-6 hours.
• Overnight camping at Shana.

Day 4: Shana - Thangthangka

• Continue trekking from Shana to Thangthangka, passing through dense forests and crossing several streams.
• Enjoy the scenic views of Mount Jomolhari along the way.
• Trekking distance: 22 kilometers, about 7-8 hours.
• Overnight camping at Thangthangka (altitude: approximately 3,610 meters).

Day 5: Thangthangka - Jangothang

• Trek from Thangthangka to Jangothang, ascending gradually through alpine meadows and yak herders' camps.
• Get closer views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
• Trekking distance: 19 kilometers, about 5-6 hours.
• Overnight camping at Jangothang (altitude: approximately 4,080 meters).

Day 6: Jangothang (Acclimatization Day)

• Rest and acclimatize at Jangothang.
• Optionally, take short hikes around the area for better acclimatization and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
• Overnight camping at Jangothang.

Day 7: Jangothang - Lingshi

• Trek from Jangothang to Lingshi, crossing Nyile La Pass (altitude: approximately 4,890 meters).
• Descend into the Lingshi Valley, passing by beautiful lakes and yak pastures.
• Trekking distance: 18 kilometers, about 6-7 hours.
• Overnight camping at Lingshi (altitude: approximately 4,010 meters).

Day 8: Lingshi - Shodu

• Trek from Lingshi to Shodu, passing through the picturesque Lingshi Dzong and ascending to the Yelila Pass (altitude: approximately 4,930 meters).
• Descend into the Shodu Valley, where you'll camp for the night.
• Trekking distance: 22 kilometers, about 8-9 hours.
• Overnight camping at Shodu (altitude: approximately 3,960 meters).

Day 9: Shodu - Barshong

• Trek from Shodu to Barshong, following the Thimphu River through dense rhododendron and bamboo forests.
• Cross several suspension bridges and enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area.
• Trekking distance: 16 kilometers, about 6-7 hours.
• Overnight camping at Barshong (altitude: approximately 3,710 meters).

Day 10: Barshong - Dolam Kencho

• Trek from Barshong to Dolam Kencho, passing through charming villages and terraced fields.
• Descend gradually through forested trails to Dolam Kencho.
• Trekking distance: 15 kilometers, about 5-6 hours.
• Overnight camping at Dolam Kencho (altitude: approximately 3,320 meters).

Day 11: Dolam Kencho - Dodena - Thimphu (End of Trek)

• Trek from Dolam Kencho to Dodena, where you'll meet your transport for the drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital.
• Enjoy a hot shower and a well-deserved rest in Thimphu.
• Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 12: Thimphu Sightseeing

• Explore Thimphu's cultural and historical landmarks, including the Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma Statue, and traditional craft markets.
• Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 13: Departure from Bhutan

• Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, bidding farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive experience of the Jomolhari Trek, showcasing Bhutan's stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Keep in mind that it's always subject to change based on factors like weather conditions and group preferences.