Jomolhari trek
2 670,00 €
Chomolhari is one of the better-known peaks in Bhutan, and this is one of the classic treks. It takes you out to the tranquil countryside where Bhutanese culture is well-preserved, and a visit to the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ is something to cherish long after the trip.
Known as one of the classic treks of Bhutan, the Chomolhari Trek takes you through the high valleys of the Dragon Kingdom and is the most popular among treks. Besides enjoying the real beauty and charm of the countryside, a visit to the Taktsang Monastery (also called Tiger’s Nest) is exhilarating. Then step into the wilderness to meet local tribesmen still in tune with nature, preserving their rich culture. After crossing several passes, there are spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks such as Jichu Drake and Chomolhari. The trek starts and ends in Paro with a tour of the Capital, Thimphu.
- Bhutan Country
- Hiking and trekking Thématique
- Difficult Difficulté
- 14 days Duration
- 4 800 m Max. altitude
- Yes Guide
- Camping, Hôtel Hébergement
- Hike 4 H Departure / Arrival
Itinerary
Morning transfer from hotel to TIA (Kathmandu Airport). Flight to Paro (duration: 1 ½ hr). Welcomed by a Bhutanese representative/ transfer to the hotel. After lunch we visit the National Museum. Once a watchtower, this building was transformed into a museum by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (third king) in 1969. Precious rare collections of thangkas (religious scroll paintings) and Buddhist statues adorn the museum. This visit gives one a good insight into the natural history and culture of Bhutan. Next: a visit to the Paro Rimpong Dzong. Dzongs are fortresses which serve not just as landmarks of Bhutanese culture but are also important political and religious centers of the country. The Paro Dzong was built in the 17th century by the founder of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. 200 monks live here around the district administration. From the dzong, we descend on foot to reach the famous wooden bridge on our way to Paro town.
Free time in town.
Short transfer to the Drukgyal Dzong (distance:15 km). We start the trek along the Paro River passing through several villages to reach the Shana Camp (2,580m).
We follow the Paro River where the trail takes us up and down through a forest. We cross the river via a suspension bridge and climb up through a rhododendron forest to reach camp (3,750 m).
After the forest, we enjoy a superb view of the Himalayas: Chomolhari and Jichu Drake. End the day’s hike at Jangothang Camp (4,040 m).
A day of acclimatization at the camp.
After the river, the trail leads up to the ridge with spectacular views of the peaks: Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshirim Khang. Then we climb up to Nyele La Pass at 4,700 m. Then gradually descend to the village of Lingshi Dzong. Camp at 4000 m.
We follow the river above the Dzong, climb up for 4 hours to reach Nyele La Pass (4,800 m), the highest point of the trek. Following this climb is a long descent to Shodu camp (3,750 m).
We then descend to the line of trees to reach Thimphu River in a delightful alpine forest of rhododendrons and junipers. Great view of the cliffs! After lunch, we climb up to the ruins of the Barshong Dzong. Camp at 3,600 m.
A descent to the Thimphu River, followed by a climb up to reach Dolam Kencho Camp (3,600 m).
We walk across a bamboo forest and descend to Dodena where our vehicles are waiting to drive us to Thimphu (distance:15 km). Overnight and dinner in Thimphu.
We stop at the Dochu La Pass (3,150m) and enjoy panoramic views of the high Himalayan peaks in the distance. While descending from the pass, observe spectacular changes in the semi-tropical vegetation. Stop for lunch, and then walk to the Stupa of ….., through rice fields and serene villages. On the way back, we enjoy a short walk to Chime Lhakhang in a charming setting. We then visit the temple of Drukpa Kuenley, one of the first saints of Bhutan who’s better known as the ‘Divine Fool’. Duration of drive: 3hr. Duration of hike: 2hr.
This highly symbolic shrine of Taktsang is a very important pilgrimage site and has served as a sanctuary for refugees for more than 1200 years. Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest, is perched 600 m high on a steep cliff in the Paro Valley. On the way back, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. (Mules can be rented for the climb)
Drive to Paro International Airport for the return flight.
Practical Info
What is included
- Full board stay in Bhutan with accommodation according to the itinerary
- All transport by private vehicle
- English speaking Bhutanese guide for the whole stay in Bhutan
- Camping equipment and collective kitchen
- Portage by pack animals.
- Trek permit road approvals and site entrances as the program
- Mineral water
- Bhutan Visa
What is not included
- Stay in Delhi or Kathmandu
- Visa India or Nepal if necessary
- International flight
- Compulsory repatriation insurance
- Tips, drinks, personal expenses, sleeping bag, etc.
FAQ
The Jomolhari trek, one of Bhutan’s great classics, climbs the high valleys of the north, from Shana to Jangothang and Lingshi. Along the way, you meet nomadic herding communities who still live to the rhythm of their yak herds, in a countryside where Bhutanese culture is remarkably well preserved.
This demanding trek crosses several high passes, including the Nyele La at 4,700 m. Camps are set at the foot of the mountains, and the acclimatisation day at Jangothang lets you fully enjoy this high-mountain setting.
From Jangothang camp and the passes along the route, Bhutan’s sacred peaks reveal themselves: Jomolhari, a revered mountain on the Tibetan border, and the slender pyramid of Jichu Drake. Grand panoramas in still-wild nature.
The trek is framed by cultural visits: the capital Thimphu, Punakha dzong and the Paro valley. The journey ends with the climb to Taktsang monastery, the famous Tiger’s Nest clinging to its cliff, a memory to cherish long after you return home.
