Bhutan Jomolhari Circuit Trek

Your Bhutan adventure begins as you arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most scenic airports surrounded by beautiful Himalayan landscapes. Our local team will welcome you upon arrival and transfer you comfortably to your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time and remaining daylight, you will have the opportunity to explore some of Paro’s most significant cultural landmarks. Visit the impressive Rinpung Dzong, a historic fortress monastery known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual importance.

Continue to the National Museum of Bhutan at Ta Dzong, where you can discover the country’s fascinating history, art, and traditions. You will also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, offering a peaceful introduction to Bhutanese Buddhism.

After breakfast, you will take a short scenic drive to Drukgyel Dzong, the historic fortress that marks the starting point of your trek. From here, the trail follows the beautiful Paro Chhu River, leading you through peaceful forests, traditional farmland, and small Bhutanese villages surrounded by Himalayan scenery.

Today’s trekking route is designed as a gradual introduction to the journey, allowing your body to adjust comfortably to the increasing altitude. The trail offers a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the valley, observe local lifestyles, and take in the quiet surroundings.

You will trek for approximately 5–6 hours, following a gentle path through changing landscapes before reaching Shana campsite (2,950 m). Located beside the river, the campsite provides a peaceful setting where you can relax after the day’s walk while enjoying the soothing sounds of flowing water.

Overnight stay will be at the Shana camp, preparing you for the next stage of your Bhutan trekking adventure.

After breakfast, you will continue your trek along the beautiful Paro Chhu River, gradually making your way deeper into the pristine wilderness of Jigme Dorji National Park. As the trail begins to climb, the landscape changes beautifully with the increasing altitude, offering a closer connection with Bhutan’s untouched Himalayan environment.

During today’s trek, you will walk through diverse forest landscapes where pine trees gradually transition into oak, fir, and colorful rhododendron forests. Along the way, you will cross traditional wooden bridges and pass through peaceful areas where local yak herders set up temporary camps during grazing seasons.

The trail becomes more scenic as you gain elevation, with mountain views slowly opening up around you. If weather conditions are favorable, you may get your first breathtaking glimpse of Mount Jomolhari, one of Bhutan’s most iconic Himalayan peaks, standing proudly in the distance.

After approximately 6–7 hours of trekking, you will reach Thangthangkha campsite (3,645 m). The campsite offers a quiet mountain setting surrounded by nature, although the temperature will feel noticeably cooler compared to the lower valleys. Enjoy a warm meal, rest comfortably, and prepare for the next stage of your Bhutan trekking journey.

Overnight stay at Thangthangkha campsite.

Today’s trek takes you deeper into the high-altitude landscapes of Bhutan as you continue your journey toward Jangothang Base Camp, one of the most spectacular locations on the Jomolhari Trek. As you leave Thangthangkha behind, the dense forests gradually disappear, giving way to open alpine meadows, high-altitude yak pastures, and wide glacial valleys.

The trail continues to climb steadily, offering increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and remote landscapes. Along the way, you may see yak herders moving through the valleys, adding to the authentic wilderness experience of this Bhutan trekking route.

After approximately 5–6 hours of walking, you will arrive at Jangothang Base Camp (4,180 m), a breathtaking campsite located beneath the towering presence of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Surrounded by some of Bhutan’s most impressive mountain scenery, this campsite is considered one of the highlights of the trek.

Spend the evening relaxing at the camp and enjoying the changing colors of the mountains as the sun sets. The peaceful atmosphere, fresh mountain air, and incredible Himalayan views make Jangothang a perfect place to slow down and appreciate the beauty of Bhutan’s high valleys.

Enjoy dinner at the campsite and rest overnight at Jangothang Base Camp, preparing for the next stage of your Himalayan adventure.

Today is a dedicated acclimatization day at Jangothang Base Camp, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude before continuing toward the more challenging sections of the trek. There is no need to pack up or move camps today, giving you valuable time to rest and prepare for the upcoming mountain passes.

In the morning, you can take an optional short hike to a nearby ridge, where you will be rewarded with wider views of the magnificent Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and the surrounding glaciers. The panoramic Himalayan scenery from this area is truly unforgettable and offers excellent opportunities for photography.

If you prefer a slower pace, you can spend the day relaxing at the campsite, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and taking in the beauty of the remote mountain landscape. This rest day plays an important role in helping your body adapt to the altitude and ensuring a safer trekking experience ahead.

Make the most of this time at Jangothang Base Camp (4,180 m), as the next two days will bring some of the most demanding and rewarding sections of the Bhutan trekking journey.

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the Jomolhari Trek in Bhutan. After leaving Jangothang Base Camp, you will begin your ascent toward Nyile La Pass (4,870 m), the highest point of today’s route. The climb is gradual rather than extremely steep, but the high altitude and thinner air make the journey more demanding.

As you reach the top of Nyile La Pass, you will be welcomed by colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain wind and spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This is a perfect moment to pause, take photographs, and appreciate the remote beauty of Bhutan’s high-altitude wilderness.

From the pass, the trail descends through beautiful alpine valleys, open landscapes, and yak-grazing areas before reaching the remote village of Lingshi (4,010 m). The village is known for its traditional lifestyle and the historic Lingshi Dzong, which sits above the valley and reflects Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.

Today’s trek takes approximately 7–8 hours of walking, making it the longest trekking day so far. After reaching Lingshi, relax at the campsite, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and recover before continuing your journey through Bhutan’s spectacular mountain landscapes.

Today marks one of the most memorable stages of the Jomolhari Trek in Bhutan as you cross Yale La Pass (4,930 m), the highest point of the entire trekking route. After leaving Lingshi, the trail gradually climbs toward the pass, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience through Bhutan’s high Himalayan landscape.

The ascent requires steady effort due to the high altitude, but reaching the top of Yale La Pass is an unforgettable achievement. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Bhutan’s Himalayan ridgelines stretching in every direction. Take some time to appreciate the dramatic mountain scenery, capture photographs, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this remote high-altitude pass.

After crossing Yale La, the trail begins a gradual descent through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine landscapes, and mountain streams. The changing scenery provides a refreshing contrast as you make your way toward Shodu campsite (4,110 m).

Today involves approximately 7–8 hours of trekking, making it another demanding but highly rewarding day. As you arrive at Shodu, you can relax knowing that the most challenging sections of the trek are now complete. Enjoy a warm meal, rest at the campsite, and take in the peaceful surroundings of Bhutan’s Himalayan wilderness.

After the high mountain passes of the previous days, today’s trek offers a more relaxed journey as you descend through the peaceful landscapes of Bhutan’s lower valleys. Leaving Shodu campsite, the trail follows the Thimphu Chhu River downstream, taking you through beautiful forests filled with rhododendron, juniper, and pine trees.

The scenery changes noticeably today as the open alpine landscapes gradually give way to greener forest surroundings. Along the route, you will cross traditional wooden bridges, pass cascading waterfalls, and walk beneath prayer flags that add a spiritual touch to the peaceful mountain trail.

After approximately 5–6 hours of trekking, you will reach Barshong campsite (3,680 m), located near the remains of Barshong Dzong, an old fortress that once played an important role in the region’s history. Today, the ruins sit quietly among the surrounding forests, slowly becoming part of the natural landscape.

With most of the trail passing through shaded forest areas and featuring a gradual descent, today is considered a more comfortable trekking day. Enjoy the calm surroundings, relax at camp, and reflect on the incredible landscapes experienced throughout your Bhutan Himalayan trekking journey.

After the challenging sections of the trek, today offers a more comfortable and enjoyable walking experience as you continue from Barshong to Dolam Kencho. The trail is mostly downhill, allowing you to slow your pace, enjoy the surroundings, and appreciate the natural beauty of Bhutan’s mountain wilderness without the need for strenuous climbing.

As you descend, the landscape continues to change with the altitude. The trail moves through forests that gradually open and close, creating a peaceful journey filled with quiet paths, fresh mountain air, and beautiful views along the way. It is a perfect day to simply enjoy the rhythm of trekking and take in the calm atmosphere of the Himalayan surroundings.

After approximately 5–6 hours of walking, you will reach Dolam Kencho campsite (3,430 m), a peaceful and secluded location surrounded by nature. Though simple, the campsite offers exactly what makes Bhutan trekking special — tranquility, untouched landscapes, and a chance to disconnect from everyday life.

As this is your final night camping in the mountains, take some time to relax and reflect on your journey from Shana to the high Himalayan valleys and back through Bhutan’s remote landscapes. The memories of mountain passes, traditional villages, forests, and breathtaking views will remain a highlight of your trekking experience.

Today marks the final day of your trekking journey as you leave the peaceful mountain trails behind and make your way back toward civilization. After breakfast, you will begin a short and pleasant walk from Dolam Kencho to Dodina, following a scenic route through pine forests and along a beautiful river valley.

The gradual descent offers a gentle ending to your trek, giving you one last opportunity to enjoy Bhutan’s natural landscapes before reaching Dodina, where your trekking adventure officially comes to an end. After completing the trail, your private vehicle will be ready to transfer you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.

The drive to Thimphu provides a wonderful change of scenery as you move from remote Himalayan wilderness to the vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere of Bhutan’s cultural heart. After several days of camping and mountain trails, arriving at your hotel offers a chance to relax, refresh, and enjoy modern comforts again.

The walk today takes approximately 3–4 hours, followed by a scenic drive to Thimphu. Once settled into your hotel, the evening is free for you to explore the city at your own pace. You can visit local markets, enjoy a café, take a relaxed walk through the streets, or simply rest and appreciate having a comfortable room after your incredible Himalayan trekking experience.

After breakfast, you will begin a scenic day trip from Thimphu to Punakha, traveling through some of Bhutan’s most beautiful mountain landscapes. The journey takes you across Dochula Pass (3,100 m), one of Bhutan’s most famous viewpoints, known for its 108 memorial chortens built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers.

On a clear day, Dochula Pass offers spectacular views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, making it a perfect place to stop, take photographs, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. From the pass, the road gradually descends through forests and valleys as you continue toward Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital.

In Punakha, you will visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, which is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Known for its stunning architecture and historical importance, the dzong is considered one of Bhutan’s most beautiful landmarks. You will also visit Chimi Lhakhang, famously known as the Temple of Fertility, a unique monastery with fascinating cultural traditions and history.

After several days of trekking, today provides a refreshing change of pace with a full day of sightseeing, allowing you to experience Bhutan’s spiritual heritage, traditional architecture, and local culture at a relaxed pace.

In the evening, you will drive back to Thimphu and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in the capital.

After breakfast, you will drive back to Paro, where your Bhutan journey reaches one of its most unforgettable highlights — the hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Perched dramatically on a cliffside around 900 meters above the Paro Valley, Tiger’s Nest is Bhutan’s most famous cultural and spiritual landmark. The trail takes you through peaceful pine forests decorated with colorful prayer flags, offering beautiful views of the valley and surrounding mountains along the way.

The hike takes approximately 4–6 hours for the round trip, with a steady uphill climb followed by a steeper final approach to the monastery. Although the trail requires effort, the incredible setting and spiritual atmosphere make every step worthwhile. Upon reaching Taktsang Monastery, you will have time to explore this sacred site, admire its traditional architecture, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the mountainside.

After completing the hike, you will return to Paro and relax after an inspiring day of exploration. This final evening offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on your Bhutan adventure, from remote Himalayan trails and mountain passes to ancient monasteries and cultural landmarks.

Enjoy your last night in Bhutan with a comfortable stay in Paro.

After breakfast, drive to the Paro airport in time to catch the onward flight. Bid farewell to the remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappears again behind its guardian mountains.(Breakfast only included)