Jomolhari Loop is the shortest of the Jomolhari trekking routes with altitude differences of 2,500m and nearly 5,000m it offers a wide range of landscapes, fauna and flora. The highlight of this trek is the spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari from Jomolhari Basecamp (Jangothang). Trekkers who want to avoid high passes and high altitude can chose an easier version of the Jomolhari Loop by retracing their steps from Jangothang , while still having the majestic impressions of Mount Jomolhari.
Day 01 : Arrive Paro
Upon arrival at Paro Airport, transfer to hotel. Later visit the Ta Dzong, built in the 17th century as a watch tower for the Paro Dzong. The museum boasts antique Thangka, textiles, weapons and amour, household objects and rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Below the museum is the Rinpung Dzong, built in 17th century. Overnight Hotel
Day 02: Taktsang hike
Taktsang Monastery / Tigers Nest, the most spectacular monastery and probably the most photographed one in Bhutan, in a way a symbol of Bhutan. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery hence it is called “Tiger’s Nest”. The excursion to monastery’s view point takes about 5 hours for round trip. Lunch will be served at the cafeteria, followed by a short walk back. Evening stroll Paro town for leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 03. Trek begins from Drugyal dzong to reach Shana.
Distance : 17km, Trek time: 5-6 hours , Ascent: 500meter , Camp altitudue: 2850M
Drive 12km north of Paro valley from your hotel to the historic Drugyal Dzong ruins at 2,580m, from were your trek starts. Your trekking crew will be waiting here for you. After a brief meeting, you will walk downhill on a wide trail following the Pachhu (river), which then climbs gently traversing through well-maintained rice terraces and fields of millet. You reach the army post of Gunitsawa at 2,810 after walking for a while through blue pine forest. Here your trekking permit will be checked and stamped. You will then cross Pachu River on a wooden bridge and then climb to Sharna Zampa at 2,870m. Just beyond Shana Zampa, there are several meadows surrounded by trees where you will camp for tonight.
Day 04. Shana – Soi Thangthangkha
Distance: 22 km. Trek time: 7-8 hours. Ascent: 1090m. Altitude of camp: 3480m.
The trail again follows Pachhu (Paro river), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. On this long day, the trail continues with lots of small ups and downs. After going uphill through the river valley the valley finally narrows gradually to a mere path which descends to a meadow where a campsite.
Day 05 : Trek to Jangothang
Distance 19 km, 5-6 hours, 480 m ascent, camp altitude 4,080 m
In the morning after passing a small army post, the trail slowly leaves the forest line and gradually climbs into a beautiful valley, passing Tegethang, a winter home of yak herdsmen. Lots of yaks will be seen today before we arrive at the Jhomolhari base camp (4,115 m). High mountains overlook the camp and visible nearby are the ruins of an old fortress used to guard Bhutan against Tibetan invasions.
Day 06 : Jangothang halt
You can enjoy day hikes, you have 3 options on this day at Jangothang. Hike to Jumolhari Glacier which is around 4 ½ hours (Back and forth, or Hike to Jichu Drake Glacier which is around 3 hours (Back and Forth). Or Walk up the mountain between Jumolhari and Jichu Drake, the summit is at 5200 meters with a great view of both the mountains. This is 8 hours (Back and forth).
Day 07 : Jangothang – Dumzo
Distance 18km, 6-7 hours, 800 m ascent, camp altitude: 3800m
The walking distance is 18 kilometers which takes 6/7 hours crossing a pass known as Bhonte la at an altitude of 4900m. This day offers beautiful views of Mt.Chomolhari, Kungphu, Jichu Drake from the Two lakes and wonderful landscape. Before reaching the camp you will pass the Soi Yaktsa village and one kilometer futher cross a bridge to reach the campsite
Day 08 : Dhumzo – Thombu Shong
Distance 13km, 5-6hours, 700 m ascent, camp altitude: 4180m
Today’s trek offers a lot of scenic beauty. You will have good views into the valley and from the Thombu la pass at an altitude of 4520m views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake can be seen. From the pass its all the way down hill situated above tree line.
Day 09 : Thombu Shong – Shana Zam.
Distance 15km, 5-6hours
The first part especially the walk on the ridge offers beautiful views partly to the mighty ice giants in the Chomolhari region. The second part consists of a steep descent, which lacks interesting views. At end of the descent you will come across the same military camp as you entered. Many possible camps can be found if you walk further down
Day 10 : Shana Zam – Drugyel Dzong – Thimphu
Your Vehicle will be waiting for your return at Drugyel Dzong and then proceed to Thimphu. Check in your hotel. Relax in your hotel.. visit the Memorial Chorten ( a huge Stupa ) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the Kingdom from 1952-1972.Explore Thimphu Town. Overnight Hotel
Day 11 : Thimphu Sightseeing.
Visit Changangkha Monastery and viewpoint of Thimphu and the Takin sanctuaryVisit the handicrafts emporium, local paper making factory, textile muesuem, folk heritage museum, national library, and the Indigenous hospital.
Afternoon : visit the Zilukha nunnery and Visit Tashichho Dzong is the main secretariat building. This massive structure houses part of the Government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room and the office and the living quarters of the Monk Body and its Chief Abbot. Visit the vegetable market. explore Thimphu town.
Day 12 : Departure