Jomolhari Trek

Your trek begins from Drukgyel Dzong. This impressive fortress lies in ruin and built here in this present location to commemorate the victory over Tibet by Tenzin Drukdra while he was the second Paro Penlop (governor) and was named Druk Gyel Dzong, which means the Victorious Fortress. From Druk Gyel Dzong the trail descent downhill and then enters the valley of Gunitsawa the northern end of Paro valley where you will embark on your onward trekking journey. Leaving the Paro valley behind you will enter the deep forest of Oak and pine trees, following the Pa Chhu River and finally you will reach your campsite at Sharna at an altitude of 2,850m.

Today your trails takes you through entering the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Park leading you to Soi Thangthanka which is the first glimpse site of Mt. Jomolhari(7326m) peak. The trail takes you through lots of ascent and descent through forest of oaks, rhododendron and ferns alongside the Pa Chhu River. Continuing your journey through the river valley finally you will enter a narrow to a small path which descends to a meadow where you will set up for night. Depending upon the clarity of the weather you will have the first catching awesome view of the majestic Mt. Jomolhary (7326m).

Your trek continues following the Pa Chhu valley through beautiful landscape, which widen into pitches of alpine meadows and scanty growth of the forest. As you journey continues through crossing the army check point the majestic view of the Himalayan peaks and the spectacular view of the high mountain ridges becomes your everyday feature. Crossing the village of Soi Thangthanka, Takethang and Dangochang you will then finally enter Jangothang, which is one of the spectacular campsite of the Himalayas with its rolling alpine meadow with the majestic view of Mt. Jomolhari looming at the valley ahead. Settle down for your night halt at a splendid view point and campsite at Jangothang.

The rest day in Jangothang provides plenty of possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow capped mountains such as Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. There are good chances to spot some blue sheep on the upper slopes of the valley. Jangothang is a perfect environment for your acclimatization. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area. There are good short hiking trails in three directions. Jomolhari and its subsidiary mountain chains lie directly west, Jichu Drake to the north and there are a number of unclimbed peaks to the east.

The trail leads to a last settlement in the valley and drops to the Paro Chhu. Passing the lake of Tshophu (4,380m) you will climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m, the highest point of this trek route. Reaching the Dhumzo Chhu river, you trek downstream passing the few houses of Soi Yaktsa (Dhumzo) to arrive at your camp soon after.

The trail climbs up to the Yelila pass at an altitude of 4,930m. From the pass, on a clear day you will get an excellent view of Jumolhari, Tserimgang and Masanggang. The trek from the pass to the campsite at Shodu is a steep downhill.

The trail follows the Thimphu Chhu through rhododendron forests, past beautiful waterfalls along the way. The valley narrows till the path takes to the slopes and gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong.

The trail descends down to the Thimphu Chhu river valley, through dense forests of rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples and bamboos and then ascends to pasture lands. The camp is in a meadow.

The trail continues through forested areas winding up and down and through a small pass. Langurs (monkeys) can be seen along the way. In Dodena, you will exit the Jigme Dorji National Park and reach the road head next to a impressive cantilever bridge.

Today in the morning hour before departing to Thimphu hike to the Cherri monastery and later the trail leads you all the way downhill till the road where you will be met by your car and transfer to your hotel.

After your morning breakfast, you will be led to explore some of the important monuments in Thimphu including National Memorial Chorten, National Painting School, National Library, National Textile Museum and finally the giant golden Buddha statue. After quick lunch in Thimphu drive to Paro which takes around 1 hour.

After your morning breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward destination. Your tour guide and driver will see you off at the airport.