JUMOLHARI TREK - 13 Days / 12 Nights

Trip Overview
The Jumolhari Trek is one of Bhutan's most scenic and rewarding high-altitude treks. Starting after an acclimatization hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, the trek begins from Drugyel Dzong in Paro and ascends through pristine valleys, yak herder villages, and alpine meadows to the base of Mt. Jumolhari (7315m). The route continues over high passes such as Neyle La (4700m) and Yeli La (4942m), offering majestic views of Bhutan's towering peaks like Jichu Drake and Tsherim Gang. The adventure concludes with cultural sightseeing in Thimphu and Punakha.

Day 1: Arrive Paro
Welcome to Bhutan! Your flight offers sweeping views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest and Mt. Jumolhari. On arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your Bhutan Holidays guide and transfer to a local restaurant for lunch. Sightseeing in Paro (time permitting) includes:

• Rinpung Dzong (1646)
• Traditional wooden cantilever bridge
• 8th-century Kyichu Lhakhang
• Drugyel Dzong ruins (1646)
  Evening: Stroll through Paro town.
  Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 2: Acclimatization Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery (3100m)
After breakfast, drive 20 minutes to the base of Taktsang Monastery. Hike through pine, fir, and hemlock forests to reach the sacred site perched on a cliffside. Visit the monastery, have lunch at the cafeteria, and descend to the base.
Evening: Leisure time in Paro town.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 3: Paro to Sharna Zampa - Trek Starts
Distance: 15km | Time: 5-6 hrs | Ascent: 300m | Camp Alt: 2870m
Drive to Drugyel Dzong (2580m) to meet the trekking crew. Begin trek along the Paro Chu, through rice fields, apple orchards, and blue pine forests. Cross Gunitsawa Army Post and reach Sharna Zampa campsite.
Overnight: Camp at Sharna Zampa

Day 4: Sharna Zampa to Soi Thangkha
Distance: 20km | Time: 8-9 hrs | Ascent: 900m | Camp Alt: 3750m
Follow the river trail through forests of pine, oak, and spruce. Cross several streams and reach Shingkharap (3110m). Lunch by the river. Climb through rhododendron forests to camp in beautiful meadows.
Overnight: Camp at Soi Thangkha

Day 5: Soi Thangkha to Jangothang (Base Camp)
Distance: 17km | Time: 4-5 hrs | Ascent: 290m | Camp Alt: 4040m
Trek above the tree line with stunning views of surrounding peaks. Pass yak herder camps and Soe and Takethang villages. Final ascent brings you to Jangothang, with awe-inspiring views of Mt. Jumolhari and Jichu Drake.
Overnight: Camp at Jangothang

Day 6: Acclimatization and Exploration Day at Jangothang
Option 1: Hike north to a ridge offering views of Jichu Drake (6989m) and scramble higher (4895m) for close-up views of Jumolhari.
Option 2: Explore the twin Tshophu Lakes.
Wildlife spotting includes blue sheep, griffon vultures, and the blue poppy.
Overnight: Camp at Jangothang

Day 7: Jangothang to Lingshi
Distance: 18km | Time: 6-7 hrs | Ascent: 800m | Descent: 730m | Camp Alt: 4010m
Trek across the Ngye La Pass (4830m) with panoramic mountain views. Descend to Lingzhi village with views of Lingzhi Dzong, perched on a hilltop.
Optional: Visit Lingzhi Dzong
Overnight: Camp at Lingshi

Day 8: Lingshi to Shodu
Distance: 19km | Time: 7-8 hrs | Ascent: 940m | Descent: 920m | Camp Alt: 4100m
Climb through the Mo Chu valley to the Yeli La Pass (4942m). Enjoy views of Jumolhari, Gangchen Ta, and Masang Gang. Descend to Shodu meadow beside a Chorten.
Overnight: Camp at Shodu

Day 9: Shodu to Barshong
Distance: 16km | Time: 5-6 hrs | Ascent: 250m | Descent: 670m | Camp Alt: 3600m
Descend along Thimphu Chu through alpine forests and past waterfalls. Lunch by the river. Gradual climb to Barshong Dzong ruins.
Overnight: Camp at Barshong

Day 10: Barshong to Dodena, Drive to Thimphu
Distance: 17km | Time: 4-5 hrs | Ascent: 200m | Descent: 280m
Trek through forests to Thimphu Chu. Follow the river southward to Dodena (2600m). Meet your transport and drive to Thimphu.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

 

Day 11: Thimphu to Punakha
Drive over Dochu La Pass (3100m), adorned with 108 chortens and mountain views. Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) en route. In Punakha, explore Punakha Dzong set at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chhu rivers.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Day 12: Punakha to Paro
Drive back via Dochu La Pass and Thimphu. Optional: Visit Druk Wangyel Monastery and the Centenary Farmers Market (if weekend). Evening at leisure in Paro.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 13: Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home. Bon voyage!

 

Inclusions:

• Airport pick-up and drop-off for international arrivals/departures.
• Accommodation in three-star hotels and government-approved farmhouses (1X Double/Twin Room).
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the trip.
• Transport (Mini SUV/Hiace Bus/Tourist Bus) transfers for the duration of the tour.
• Licensed local guide and licensed tourist driver for the duration of the tour.
• All entry fees to monuments, museums, and sites as per the itinerary.
• All road route permits.
• Mineral water throughout the trip.
• Visa processing and documentation fees.
• Visa fees, all government taxes and company service charges.

Exclusions:

• 4- & 5-star hotels.
• Alcoholic beverages during the tour.
• Souvenirs.
• Flight tickets.
• Tips for guides and drivers.
• Medical/Travel Insurance
• Anything not mentioned in the inclusions section.