Jomolhari Trek
Camp directly beneath the sheer south face of Mount Jomolhari (7,326m) | Cross multiple high passes above 4,500m including Nyile La | Explore the remote Lingshi plateau, yak pastures, ancient dzongs, and few trekkers | Spot blue sheep, Himalayan griffon, and possibly snow leopard tracks | Visit Lingshi Dzong in one of the most remote settings in Bhutan | Full professional camping support crew throughout
The Jomolhari Trek is one of the most spectacular high-altitude journeys in the Himalayan world: a twelve-day circuit from Paro to Paro that takes you beneath the sheer southern face of Mount Jomolhari (7,326m), one of the most sacred peaks in Bhutan and one of the most dramatic mountain walls on earth. This is not a trek for beginners: the route crosses multiple passes above 4,500 metres, includes sections of considerable remoteness, and requires genuine physical fitness and altitude experience. For those who are ready, it delivers an experience that stands comparison with any high-mountain journey anywhere.
The trek begins gently enough, following the Paro Chhu river upstream from Shana through increasingly dramatic gorge scenery to the first campsite at Thangthangkha. Over the following days the valley narrows and steepens as Jomolhari’s great bulk begins to dominate the northern horizon. The campsite at Jangothang, at 4,040 metres directly beneath the mountain’s south face, offers one of the supreme mountain campsites in Asia: the peak rises nearly 3,300 metres above you in a single sweep of ice and rock, reflected in the still waters of a glacial lake on calm mornings.
From Jangothang the route explores the high Lingshi plateau, a world of yak pastures, ancient fortresses, and remote monasteries at around 4,500 metres that few trekkers ever reach. The Lingshi Dzong, perched on its rocky knoll above the valley, is a remarkable example of Bhutanese fortress architecture in an utterly remote setting. The return route crosses the Nyile La pass (4,870m) before descending back toward Thimphu through the Druk Path, giving trekkers the option of finishing in Thimphu rather than returning entirely to Paro.
Wildlife sightings on the Jomolhari Trek are among the best in Bhutan: blue sheep (bharal) graze on the high ridges in visible flocks, the endangered snow leopard patrols the same terrain (rarely seen but unmistakably present in tracks and scrapes), and the black-necked crane is occasionally spotted in the high valleys on migration. The trek is an experience of genuine wilderness, vast, cold, breathtaking, and utterly unlike anywhere else on earth.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Arrive in Paro and meet your trekking team. Equipment check, gear fitting, and full trek briefing. Overnight in Paro hotel.
Day 2: Paro to Shana (2,870m)
Trek begins following the Paro Chhu river upstream through broadleaf forest and farmland. Gradual warm-up day to the first campsite at Shana.
Day 3: Shana to Jangothang (4,040m)
Ascending through dramatically narrowing gorge scenery as Jomolhari’s bulk begins to fill the northern horizon. Arrive at Jangothang, directly beneath the mountain’s 3,300m south face. Glacial lake at camp.
Day 4: Jangothang Acclimatisation Day
Rest day at 4,040m. Optional hike to higher viewpoints. Blue sheep visible on surrounding ridges. Your guide discusses the route ahead and altitude management. Full hot meals at camp.
Day 5: Jangothang to Lingshi (4,166m)
Cross Nyile La pass (4,870m), a demanding but spectacular high crossing with vast views. Descend to the remote Lingshi plateau. Camp below Lingshi Dzong.
Day 6: Lingshi Rest Day
Morning visit to Lingshi Dzong on its commanding rocky knoll. Afternoon rest and acclimatisation. Wildlife spotting in the surrounding high meadows. Snow leopard tracks occasionally found near camp.
Day 7: Lingshi to Chebisa (3,880m)
Descend from the plateau through alpine meadows to Chebisa village. Remote stone farmhouses and blue sheep grazing close to the trail.
Day 8: Chebisa to Shomuthang (4,220m)
Long ascending day through open yak pastures. Camp at Shomuthang with continuous high-mountain views.
Day 9: Shomuthang to Robluthang (4,160m)
High ridge traverse with panoramic Himalayan views. Camp beside a glacial stream at Robluthang.
Day 10: Robluthang to Limithang (3,960m)
Gradual descent as vegetation becomes more varied. Final high camp at Limithang.
Day 11: Limithang to Thimphu via Phajoding
Final descent through Phajoding Monastery with views over Thimphu Valley. Trek ends at the valley floor. Celebration dinner with your crew in Thimphu.
Day 12: Thimphu to Paro: Departure
Morning at leisure in Thimphu. Transfer to Paro for afternoon departure flights.
