Overnight: Stay in Paro.
Overnight: Stay in Paro.
We begin our day with a drive to Drukyel Dzong, a 17th-century fortress originally constructed to protect Bhutan from Tibetan invasions. From there, we continue onward to Shana, passing through verdant farmland and traditional Bhutanese homes made of stone and timber. Our trek kicks off here, with a short lunch break along the way before we reach our overnight campsite at ThonduZampa. During the journey, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the majestic 7,314-meter peak of Jhomolhari.
Today, we venture through Jigme Dorje National Park, Bhutan’s largest protected area, where you’ll witness a rich variety of flora, including vibrant rhododendrons. The campsites are temporary settlements for yak herders and local workers. Our campsite for the night is Thangthangkhaat an altitude of 3,800 meters.
We continue toward Jhomolhari Base Camp, rising above the treeline into a stunning alpine tundra landscape. This region is also home to yak herders, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their lifestyles. We’ll set up camp at Jangothang (4,040 meters), with spectacular views of Jhomolhari.
Today is reserved for acclimatization. Explore the valley around Jhomolhari or take a short trek toward the Nylie La pass and visit the scenic Tshophu Lake.
We’ll start with a 3-4 hour climb to Nylie La Pass (4,700 meters), where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of Jhomolhari, Jitchu Drake, and Tsheri Kang. Afterward, we descend to a circular hut below Lingshi, where we’ll camp for the night. The mystical Lingshi Dzong will be visible as we approach.
As we head northeast, we’ll trek through lush pastures of rhododendron and daphne. Our destination is the quaint village of Chebisa, known for its stunning cascading waterfalls and serene beauty. We’ll camp here at 3,750 meters.
Today’s trek begins with a steep climb through high pastures up to Gombu La Pass (4,440 meters). We’ll then descend through forests of dwarf rhododendron to a beautiful river valley. Our camp will be located near the riverbed at Shomuthang (3,960 meters).
A challenging climb awaits as we ascend to Jare La Pass (4,750 meters), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas, including Sinche La and Jitchu Drake. Afterward, we’ll descend steeply through a forest trail to the Tsharijathang Valley, where takins and yaks roam freely. We’ll cross a river (possibly knee-deep) before reaching Robluthang for the night.
Today, we’ll climb to Sinche La Pass (5,005 meters), followed by a descent through dense forests and boulder-strewn valleys. Along the way, we’ll enjoy magnificent views of Gangchenta Peak, glacial lakes, and white streams. Our campsite will be at Lemithang (4,000 meters).
Our trek today takes us along a river, entering the village of Laya. The people of Laya are famous for their distinctive yak hair clothing and conical bamboo hats. We’ll have time to explore the village, interact with locals, and enjoy the surrounding mountain views. Camp at Laya (3,700 meters).
Take a break from trekking to visit Laya. Experience daily life in the village, visit the local school, practice threshing wheat, and learn about the unique culture of this community.
We begin early, tackling a steep uphill trail that winds through an army camp and across a river. As we ascend, we trek through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, eventually emerging into a high river valley surrounded by towering mountains. On a clear day, enjoy striking views of the Tsenda Gang mountain range.
Camp overnight at Rodophu (4,070 m).
Today’s trek includes a steady three-hour ascent to Tsemo La Pass (4,900 m), starting gently but becoming steeper near the top. At the pass, we may be rewarded with panoramic views of Gangla Karchung, Jitchu Drake, and Jhomolhari. We then descend and gradually climb again to reach our first high-altitude camp at Narethang, nestled at 4,940 m (16,200 ft).
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
We begin with a gradual climb to the Karakachu La Pass (5,018 m / 16,465 ft), taking around two to three hours. From the top, enjoy awe-inspiring views of Karakachu, Tsenda Gang, Jejekangphu, and Teri Kang. The descent into the Tarina Valley is steep and long, requiring around 3.5 hours, passing through areas where herds of takin may be spotted. After reaching the valley floor, a gentle 2–3 hour walk brings us to our campsite.
Camp at Tarina (3,800 m).
A shorter trekking day begins with an hour of walking alongside a river. We then climb a steep and often muddy trail, ascending rigorously toward the Woche region, the gateway to the scenic and secluded Lunana region.
Camp overnight near Woche (3,800 m).
We start with a steep ascent to Keche La Pass (4,700 m), passing scenic alpine lakes Yumtso and Setso along the way. After a photo break at the top, we descend into warmer climates, passing through the villages of Thega and finally Lhedi, one of Lunana’s key communities. This is a great place to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions.
Camp at Lhedi (3,650 m).
Following the Pho Chu river, we leave Lhedi and ascend for about 30–45 minutes to Chozo Dzong, a 17th-century fortress. We continue through picturesque landscapes to the charming villages of Dyotta and Thanza, camping in a beautiful meadow beneath Table Mountain.
Camp at Thanza (4,040 m).
Today is a well-deserved rest day to recharge and enjoy the serenity of Thanza village. You may choose to explore the village, interact with locals, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking Himalayan surroundings.
Today’s journey covers about 18 miles and leads us toward the high-altitude campsite of Tshochena. The landscape is among the most breathtaking of the entire trek—expect glacial lakes, dramatic rock formations, and a chance to spot blue sheep or even elusive snow leopards. Nature here is both wild and awe-inspiring. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as sunshine can quickly give way to snowfall.
Overnight at Tshochena (4,960 m)
We continue our trek through the remote Loju La Pass and navigate around a series of pristine ridgelines. Few people have ever summited these untouched peaks, giving this area an untouched, almost mythical feel. The route winds through wild alpine terrain, ending at a campsite set on open tundra surrounded by rocky outcrops and flowing streams.
Camp at Jichudramo (5,060 m)
Today, we cross Rinchen Zoe La, the highest pass of the entire trek, standing at 5,326 meters. From the top, we’ll be rewarded with sweeping Himalayan views. After the pass, the trail descends gradually across a wide plateau and through scattered forest until we reach a clearing where we’ll make camp. This is a fantastic day for photography and peaceful reflection.
Camp at Chukarpo (4,850 m)
We trek along riverbanks and navigate through terrain dotted with large boulders before entering a dense forest of birch, pine, maple, and rhododendron. The change in landscape is dramatic and refreshing. Tonight will be our final night camping in the mountains, surrounded by serene forest sounds.
Camp at Tampoe Tsho (4,350 m)
Our final mountain crossing is Tempe La, after which we descend steeply, passing the beautiful Om Tsho Lake and the Nikka Chhu River. This scenic stretch offers one last taste of high-altitude wilderness before reaching our riverside campsite.
Camp at Maurothang (3,698 m)
Today marks the final leg of the trek. We follow the Nikka Chhu River through lush, cool forests until we reach the village roads of the Sephu district. From here, our vehicle will meet us and drive us to our accommodations in the peaceful Phobjikha Valley near Gangtey, where a warm bed and hot meal await.
Drive to Gangtey – End of trek
After breakfast, we’ll head back to Paro. Once there, we’ll explore Paro Dzong, enjoy a relaxing lunch, and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. The day ends with a stay at the Mandala Resort, where you can reflect on your epic journey.
Overnight in Paro.
Enjoy one final breakfast together, sharing memories and stories from the trek. We’ll then escort you to the airport for your departure.
