Jomolhari Trek is longer than the Jomolhari Loop - the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan. 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).
Day 1Trek starts from Gunitsawa Village
Gunitsawa Village - Sharna Zampa
Descent: 80 m Camp altitude: 2,850 m.
This trek begins at Gunitsawa Village were you pass the army post. At the army check post your trek permit (provided by your tour operator) will be checked and endorsed. The campsite is on the opposite side of the river, not far from Gunitsawa.
Day 2Great view of Mt. Jomolhari.
Sharna Zampa - Thangthangkha
Ascent: 770 m Descent: 10 m Camp altitude: 3,610 m.
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 camp will be set up. From here, if weather permits, you will have the first great view of Mt. Jomolhari.
Day 3Trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley.
Thangthangkha - Jangothang
Ascent: 480 m Camp altitude: 4,080 m.
Today we continue our trek up the Paro Chhu valley which widens into patches of alpine meadow and scanty growths of forest. In this area yaks and their herder’s homes become a regular feature of the landscape. Passing the villages Soe, Takethang and Dangochang is another asset on this day. After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites of the Himalayas, you will again have a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari.
Day 4Possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow capped mountains
The rest day in Jangothang provides plenty of possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow capped mountains such as Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Jangothang is a perfect environment for your acclimatization. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area.
Day 5Climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m
Jangothang - Lingshi
Today is one of the longest days of the trek. We will pass through Nyilila pass at 4,870m and see herds of blue sheep grazing on the slopes of the mountains.
After lunch we will continue our trek and reach Lingsh, a beautiful U-shaped valley, you get a wonderful view of Lingshi Dzong on clear days. The campsite is next to a stone hut you reach just before Lingshi Dzong.
Day 6Climb up to the Yelila pass at an altitude of 4,930m.
Lingshi - Shodu
Ascent: 940m Descent: 920m Camp altitude: 4,080m.
The trail climbs up to the Yelila pass at an altitude of 4,930m. From the pass, on a clear day you will get an excellent view of Jumolhari, Tserimgang and Masanggang. The trek from the pass to the campsite at Shodu is a steep downhill.
Day 7Trail follows the Thimphu Chhu through rhododendron forests
Shodu - Barshong
Ascent: 250m Descent: 670m Camp altitude: 3,710m.
The trail follows the Thimphu Chhu through rhododendron forests, past beautiful waterfalls along the way. The valley narrows till the path takes to the slopes and gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong.
Day 8The camp is in a meadow.
Barshong - Dolam Kencho
Ascent: 290m Descent: 640m Camp altitude: 3,320m.
The trail descends down to the Thimphu Chhu river valley, through dense forests of rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples and bamboos and then ascends to pasture lands. The camp is in a meadow.
Day 9Trek Ends at Dodena
Dolam Kencho - Dodena
Ascent: 00m Descent: 930m
The trail continues through forested areas winding up and down and through a small pass. Langurs (monkeys) can be seen along the way. In Dodena, you will exit the Jigme Dorji National Park and reach the road head next to a impressive cantilever bridge.
The trek finishes at the beautiful Cherri Monastery, while it is a 40 min hike to the monastery it is well worth it.