Jomolhari Trek with Mountain Festival

Trip Description

Paro-Thimphu-Punakha-Paro
Thursday - 10th of October 2024

Jomolhari trek is one of the most beautiful high-altitude treks for the seasoned trekker. The pace is designed in such a way that we allow ample time for acclimatization. This particular departure coincides with the Jomolhari Mountain Festival organized by the nomads of Lingzhi – a fabulous opportunity to get upload with the nomads of northern Bhutan. The festival celebrates the unique culture of the communities living together with the natural wonders that surround them: one in particular, the elusive snow leopard.  The festival includes snow leopard themed folk songs and dances performed by the local people, Jigme Dorji National Park staff and the school children, traditional sports such as Khuru (darts), archery shot-put, horse and yak riding, sampling of local delicacies and boutique handicrafts.

This trip will also give you an unparalleled insight into Bhutan and its culture, nature its people and the Bhutanese way of life. On this tour we invite you on a road of self-discovery as you discover Bhutan. Starts with the ultimate highlight of Tiger’s Nest monastery before you start the 8-nights trek into the mountains and finally end the trek in the capital city of Thimphu.

Every stop is laden with attractions that will enliven you senses and will leave you with an indelible feeling of having touched the soul of Bhutan, rather than just skimming through attractions. Our most valuable asset is our tour guides and field personnel who’ve been working with us for a long time and understand our company’s core values and bring the experience and quality required for our trekking services. This trip has very less driving times, with maximum exploration time to make the most of your holiday.

Quick overview

price Price

High Season - USD

Regular Season - USD

duration Duration

14 Nights

Tour Type Trip Type

Trekking Tour

difficulty Difficulty

Good Fitness required

Day 1-Welcome to Bhutan

Thursday - 10th of October 2024 @

Metta Resort

The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas; offering dazzling scenic views of world’s highest glacial peaks where you’ll be greeted by views of Mt.Everest and Mt.Kanchenjunga, and our very own Mt.Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drakey. As your flight descends into Paro valley, you’ll get your first impressions of Bhutan - forested hills; silvery Pa chu (Paro river) meandering down the valley below the idyllic Paro Dzong (fortress) located atop a hill overlooking the valley. If you feel like venturing out for first impression of Bhutan, and if time permits, we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang – believed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan built during the 07th century. Welcome dinner and trip briefing before calling it a night.

Day 2-Hike to Taktshang (Tiger Nest) temple, 3140m,

Friday - 11th of October 2024 @

Metta Resort

After breakfast drive to the road point access of Taktshang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. Taktshang means “Tiger’s Nest,” so named because Guru Rimpoche reportedly flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a flying tiger in the late centuries of the first millennium. The monastery is perched on a cliff nearly 1000m above the Paro valley floor. This day hike is not only historically and culturally interesting, but also incredibly scenic! It takes about two hours to reach the cafeteria, which gives a breathtaking view of the Tiger’s Nest. Continue hiking you can take another hour to reach the temple. Your tour leader will explain all the story and significance of the temple. The hike also serves to help you acclimatise to the altitude and prepare you for the trek in the coming days. On the way back visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, which is an important Bhutanese heritage as it served as a strategic watchtower and a fortress that helped repel numerous Tibetan invasions in the 1600s. Peak of Jumolhari ‘Mountain of the Goddess’ can be seen on a clear day from here (7,329 mts/24,029 ft.) Visit Kyichu Lhakhang – believed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan built during the 07th century. Stroll around town in the evening and then proceed to your resort to prepare for the trek.

Day 3-Shana-Thongsampa. camp altitude - 3300m, Duration 5 hours, Distance 12 Km

Saturday - 12th of October 2024 @

Thongsampa Camp @ 3200m

This is your first trekking day and we keep it easy for your to acclimatise to the elevation. The trail continues to follow the river; gradually ascending through a mixed forest of blue pine and oak and, later in the afternoon, tall rhododendron trees, birch, fir and maple. Though the trail is a rough and rocky path, it is not too strenuous. In rainy conditions it can be quite muddy. There are several simple wooden bridges to cross and sometimes the river reaches right up to the trail. After 4 hours of walking through an ever-narrowing valley, we come to our campsite at Thongbuzam.

Day 4-Thongsampa to Thangthangka. camp altitude - 3500m, Duration 5 hours, Distance 10 Km

Sunday - 13th of October 2024 @

Thangthangka Camp @ 3500m

Several trails lead in other directions, such as the trail to Tremo La (LA: Pass), which was the old salt-trading route to Tibet. Not long before reaching the campsite, the trail leads you up a ridge with a chorten (CHORTEN: Buddhist monument). Beyond, in the distance at the end of the valley Mt. Jomolhari (7314m) comes into view. Finally, after an 8 hour walk, you reach the campsite located in a spacious clearing and directly facing Jumolhari. The view next morning of the sun’s rays striking the peak is breathtaking.

Day 5-Soi-Thangthangka-Jangothang for the Jomolhari Mountain Festival, camp altitude - 4080m, Duration 5-6 hours, Distance 12 Km

Monday - 14th of October 2024 @

Jangothang Camp @ 4000m

The third day’s trek is shorter so it’s possible to set off a little later and progress at a leisurely pace. When you reach an army outpost you are required to stop and register your entry permits issued by the army headquarters in Thimphu. This matter will be taken care of by your guide. The Pachu River is again to the right and the trail passes through some tiny villages. It will take less than six hours to reach Jangothang. The altitude at the camp is 4,080m and is a beautiful place to spend the night. The imposing, rounded bulk of Jomolhari fills the view to the Northeast and in the evening the profile of the ruined Jangothang Dzong, populated by huge ravens, creates a mystical atmosphere. The area is rich in bird life including the fire-tailed sunbird, ibisbill, white throated dipper, yellow-billed chough, rosy pipit, snow pigeon, blue-fronted redstart, plumbeous water redstart, blood pheasant, snow partridge and many more. Catch the annual Jomolhari Mountain festival in the afternoon organised by the local nomads of Lingshi and Chebisa.

Day 6-Jomolhari Mountain Festival. Rest and acclimatisation.

Tuesday - 15th of October 2024 @

Jangothang Camp @ 4000m

Today is a day to rest and acclimatise to the altitude. The body also needs time to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There are a number of opportunities to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. Witness the Jomolhari Mountain Festival organized by the nomadic communities of Lingzhi and the day will have traditional mask dances and folk performances highlighting the nomadic culture of the area.

Day 7-Day Excursion to Tsophu lakes. 3-4 hours hiking

Wednesday - 16th of October 2024 @

Jangothang Camp @ 4000m

To aid acclimatisation, a walk to a higher altitude then returning to sleep at a lower altitude is an important and strongly recommended strategy. A 2 hour leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu from which you’ll get excellent views of the cone-shaped Jichu Drakye (6989m) which resembles the Matterhorn. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan. Return to your campsite at Jangothang.

Day 8-Jangothang– Lingzhi. 18 km, 7-8 hours

Monday - 17th of October 2022 @

Lingzhi camp @ 4000m

The trail follows a gentle stream for half an hour and crosses a bridge to the right bank. We now start our climb up the first ridge, enjoying breathtaking views of Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. The trail then takes us across a fairly level valley floor until the climb up to Nyele-la Pass (4800m). We descend gradually enjoying a panoramic view of the mountainous peaks and Lingshi Dzong from the pass until we reach our campsite at Lingshi (4000m). Overnight at campsite

Day 9-Lingzhi - Shodu. 22 km, 8-9 hours

Friday - 18th of October 2024 @

Shodu Camp @ 4100m

Our trail climbs up towards a small white chorten on a ridge above the camp, then turns south up the deep Mo Chu valley. The trail stays on the West side of this largely treeless valley, climbing steadily a short distance above the Mo Chu. It then crosses the river, and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli-La (4820m). On clear day you can see Chomolhari, Gangchenta, Tserimgang and Masagang from this pass. The trail then descends alongside a stream to a rock shelter in a cliff face. It then continues on downstream until reaching Shodu (4100m), where we will camp in a meadow with a chorten in it. Overnight at campsite.

Day 10-Shodu- Barshong to Domshisa campsite. 16 km, 7-8 hours

Saturday - 19th of October 2024 @

Barshong camp @ 3600m

Our path follows the course of the Thimphu Chu, descending through Rhododendron, Juniper and mixed alpine forests. There are stunning views along the way. We stop at the riverside for a hot lunch. Then the trail takes us gradually upwards to the ruins of Barshong Dzong (3600m). From here descend for another 1 hour to the Domshisa campsite for the final night of camping.

Day 11-Domshisa - Dolam Kencho and exit to Thimphu.. 15 km, 5-6 hours

Sunday - 20th of October 2024 @

Thimphu Towers or Pelyang Boutique

After your last breakfast in nature, continue to hike towards Dolam Kencho. The trail winds through a dense forest of Rhododendron, Birch and conifers folloging the Thimphu river. The trail runs along the left bank of the river, climbing over ridges and descending into gullies where side streams run down into the river. The final stage of the trail climbs around a cliff face high above the Thimphu Chu. The trail continues southward to meet the motor-road at Dodena. Bhutan Travel Club's vehicle meets us here, and we drive to Thimphu. Tonight its Pizza time and beer time, and we know you'll love this change after a week in the mountains.

Day 12-Thimphu Sightseeing

Monday - 21st of October 2024 @

Bhutan Suites or Thimphu Towers

Explore some of the treasures of the capital town- drive up to Buddha point and visit Buddha Dordenma - a gigantic statue Sakyamuni Buddha.The statue is filled with over one hundred smaller statues ,each of which like the Buddha itself, but made of bronze and gilded with gold. At the height of 59.5 m, it is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. Proceed to Zorig- Chusum school 13 traditional arts/crafts, the Royal Textile Museum and Academy. Stroll around town and visit the Bhutan Post Office where you can see the famous Bhutanese stamps. If you would like, you can make stamps with your photos on it and post them to your loved ones. Proceed to the Stadium to witness the national game Archery played over a 120m long field. On the way back, walk past Kabesa village to get a sense of the countryside before returning to town. Visit the Crafts Bazaar in the afternoon, along the streets of Thimphu which sells and displays various handicrafts and textiles made entirely in Bhutan. In the evening visit the Memorial Chorten Stupa which is a sacred shrine built in the memory of third king of Bhutan. Countiue visit to Tashichhodzong – the fortress that is now the government’s central administration headquarters, and also the offices of the King and the Prime Minister.

Day 13-Thimphu to Punakha. Drive time 4 hours.

Saturday - 22nd of October 2022 @

Hotel Lobesa

After breakfast, drive to Kuensel Phodrang where the gigantic 169ft statue of Buddha Dordenma is near completion. Enjoy a panoramic view of Thimphu city from there while taking a short scenic hike through the Park. From here, lets take a beautiful hike on the Kuenselphodrang trail which is the capital city’s favourite hiking trail that lasts for 2 hours. The entire hike is through beautiful bluepine forests with great views over the capital city. The easy hike ends at Changangkha monastery and from here drive to the Takin Reserve centre to see the national animal of Bhutan. Drive to Punakha over the Dochula Pass (3140m). Situated atop the pass at the backdrop of fluttering prayer flags is the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 chortens (stupas) that was built to exemplify the greatness of the Fourth King. Descend to the low-lying rice valley of Lobesa and pay your respects to one of Bhutan’s most charming and eccentric historic figures nicknamed ‘The Divine Madman’ at the Chhimi Lhakhang – also called the fertility monastery - our guide will explain the entire story about it. The visit involves a short nice hike through a beautiful village surrounded by paddy fields. Stay in a cozy resort overlooking the valley.

Day 14-Punakha Sightseeing and Paro. Drive time 4 hours.

Sunday - 23rd of October 2022 @

Metta Resort or Gangtey Palace Resort

Drive to Punakha valley to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal stupa, which involves a short scenic hike through paddy fields for about 45 minutes till the hilltop where the temple is located. From here you can also enjoy a majestic view of the underlying valley. The temple itself is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions and the only one of its kind in the world. From here you can optionally take another great hike from the riverside crossing a suspension bridge to other side of the Mo Chu river for approximately 3 km with hours hiking. A picnic lunch is served on the banks of the Punakha river. After lunch, continue to Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan situated at the confluence of two rivers. This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha region. The fortress is a fine example of Bhutan’s rich art and architecture, and our guide who is an expert in iconography will explain all aspects of art, architecture, history and its significance. Proceed to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery which is atop a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang. Interact with the nuns and they love to speak English with visitors and learn about the ways of the world. Drive to Paro in the evening. Stoll the streets of Paro in the evening as you may want to take home a few souvenirs to remember your great trekking experience in Bhutan.

Day 15-Farewell

Monday - 24th of October 2022 @

After breakfast at your hotel, your driver will take you to the airport. Your guide will help you with the formalities and fare you well on your onward journey.

What's Included and Excluded in this package

What’s Included:

  • Sustainable Tourism Fee/ Tourism Tax (USD 1400 for 14 nights) payable to Govt.
  • Visa Fees ($40 per person) payable to Immigration
  • All necessary permit fees
  • All transfers and sightseeing
  • All meals and evening tea
  • Drinking mineral water in the car
  • All accommodations and camping
  • English-speaking tour leader and driver
  • Excellent Van
  • Monument Entrance fees to monasteries/fortresses/museums etc worth USD 200 each payable to Dept of culture.
  • All trekking equipment
  • All trekking haulage including ponies and crew

What’s Excluded:

  • Bhutan Flights
  • All personal expenses like laundry, telephone, tips, shopping expenses
  • Spa Charges (except for the traditional hot-stone bath)
  • Travel and Medical insurance
  • Gratuity/ Tips
  • Single-room Supplement
Ready to book this trip? or need further information? Write to us and we'll send you a customised proposal as per your requirements.







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