Jomolhari Round Trek

On your flight to Paro the journey affords spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalaya, including Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Our representative will receive you at the airport. If you arrive before noon you can start your trip after lunch, visiting the 8th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the kingdom. In the evening, explore the town. Overnight in Paro.

The morning hike to the Tiger's Nest, perched on a rocky ledge 3,000 ft above the valley floor, makes a fine half-day excursion with beautiful views of the Paro valley. Descend from the monastery and rest at the Taktshang cafeteria for lunch, then take a free stroll in the town and the nearby village settlements. Overnight in Paro.

After an early breakfast we drive two to three hours to Shana, the trek start point. The trek follows the Pa Chhu, climbing and descending through pine, oak and spruce forest. After crossing the bridge the team stops for a hot lunch. Afterwards we climb along the bank of the river through rhododendron forest, cross the river again, and reach the campsite at 3,750 m.

The trail involves gentle climbs before you reach the army camp. Following the river above the tree line, the trek presents stunning views of the surrounding peaks. For lunch we stop at a yak herder's camp. A short walk into the valley brings you to Jangothang at 4,040 m, where we pitch base camp. The views of Mt. Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are splendid.

To acclimatise for the following day's highest climb on this trek, we rest and explore the nearby areas. Mountains and lakes offer exciting sites to explore.

Following the stream for half an hour, we cross the bridge to the right and start the climb to the first ridge, from where you have a breathtaking view of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshering Gang. Continue into the valley, almost flat for a while, until the climb to the Nyile La begins at 4,700 m. Conquering the pass, the trail descends gradually to Lingshi camp, relishing the panoramic view of the peaks and Lingshi Dzong. Camp at 4,000 m.

The Laya–Gasa route leaves the Jomolhari trek here. The trail climbs to a small chorten on a ridge above camp, turns south and continues up the deep Mo Chhu valley. It passes through the treeless valley, climbing steadily a short distance above the Mo Chhu, then crosses the river and climbs steeply for two hours to the Yeli La at 4,820 m. From the pass, on a clear day, you can see Jomolhari, Gangchen Ta, Tshering Gang and Masang Gang. Descend alongside a stream to a shelter and then further downstream to camp at Shodu (4,100 m), alongside a meadow with a chorten.

The route enters back below the tree line. Following the Wang Chhu, the Thimphu river, the trail descends through forests of rhododendron, juniper and alpine vegetation. Passing along a ridge, cascades of waterfall present a breathtaking view. A hot lunch is served by the river bank. After lunch the route takes you to the ruins of Barshong Dzong, reaching camp at 3,600 m — and the end of the trek.

After breakfast, drive on a dirt road for two hours until you meet your car on a better road, then drive to Paro for the night.

Drop at the airport, where our team sees you off.