Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Overview
The Jomolhari Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding treks in Bhutan, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and diverse flora and fauna. This trek takes you to the base camp of Mount Jomolhari (7,326 meters), the second highest peak in Bhutan, revered as the abode of a protective goddess. The journey combines challenging high-altitude trekking with cultural experiences in remote villages, providing an unforgettable adventure.
Trek Highlights
- Mount Jomolhari: Majestic views of one of Bhutan’s most sacred mountains.
- Diverse Landscapes: Trek through pristine forests, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys.
- Remote Villages: Experience the traditional lifestyle of Bhutanese highlanders.
- Wildlife: Spot rare animals such as blue sheep, Himalayan takin, and various bird species.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
- Morning: Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be warmly greeted by your guide.
- Afternoon: Transfer to your hotel and explore Paro town. Visit the National Museum of Bhutan and Paro Rinpung Dzong.
- Evening: Prepare for the trek with a briefing and gear check.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Paro.
Day 2: Paro to Shana (Start of Trek)
- Morning: Drive to the trek starting point at Drukgyel Dzong (2,580 meters).
- Afternoon: Trek through fields and forests to Shana (2,870 meters).
- Evening: Camp overnight by the river.
- Trek Distance: 17 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours.
Day 3: Shana to Soi Thangthangkha
- Morning: Continue trekking along the river, ascending through a rhododendron forest.
- Afternoon: Reach the campsite at Soi Thangthangkha (3,750 meters), with views of Mount Jomolhari in the distance.
- Evening: Camp overnight.
- Trek Distance: 22 km | Trek Time: 7-8 hours.
Day 4: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang
- Morning: Trek through yak pastures and juniper forests, with increasing views of Mount Jomolhari.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Jangothang (4,080 meters), the base camp for Mount Jomolhari, offering spectacular mountain vistas.
- Evening: Camp overnight.
- Trek Distance: 19 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Jangothang
- Morning: Enjoy a rest day to acclimatize. Optional hikes to Jomolhari Glacier or Tshophu Lakes.
- Afternoon: Explore the surrounding area and visit local yak herder camps.
- Evening: Camp overnight.
- Trek Distance: Variable depending on day hikes.
Day 6: Jangothang to Soi Yaksa
- Morning: Ascend to the Nyile La Pass (4,890 meters) with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Afternoon: Descend to Soi Yaksa (3,800 meters), passing through beautiful meadows.
- Evening: Camp overnight.
- Trek Distance: 16 km | Trek Time: 6-7 hours.
Day 7: Soi Yaksa to Thombu Shong
- Morning: Trek through scenic landscapes and cross several streams.
- Afternoon: Reach Thombu Shong (4,180 meters), a picturesque campsite.
- Evening: Camp overnight.
- Trek Distance: 12 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours.
Day 8: Thombu Shong to Gunitsawa Village and Return to Paro
- Morning: Climb to Thombu La Pass (4,380 meters) and enjoy the views before descending.
- Afternoon: Reach Gunitsawa Village (2,730 meters) and end the trek. Drive back to Paro.
- Evening: Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
- Trek Distance: 13 km | Trek Time: 5-6 hours.
Day 9: Departure from Paro
- Morning: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the Jomolhari Base Camp Trek.
