JOMoLHAR I

JOMoLHARI (CHOMoLHARI) TREK

The Jomolhari Trek is one of the most sought-after treks in Bhutan, offering adventurers an immersive experience of the country's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Starting at Drukgyel Dzong, this trek takes you through lush fields, dense forested valleys, and rugged high-altitude pastures. Spanning altitudes between 2500m and nearly 5000m, the trek offers diverse terrain and panoramic views, culminating at Jomolhari Base Camp, where trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring views of the towering Mount Jomolhari.

Jomolhari, standing at an elevation of 7,314 meters, is one of the most sacred and revered mountains in the world. Situated on the Bhutan-China border, the mountain is venerated by both the Bhutanese and Tibetans. The deity of Jomolhari is worshiped in a monastery located just below the base camp, adding a spiritual dimension to the trek.The trek kicks off with a visit to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery—a breathtakingly picturesque site—and then heads towards Shana in the Paro Valley. The route winds through picturesque rhododendron forests and leads to two high-altitude passes: Nyile La (4700m) and Yale Pass (4950m). After reaching the highest point of the trek, adventurers will descend toward the Thimphu River, eventually arriving at the Bhutanese capital, Thimphu.This trek is a perfect choice for those seeking a shorter yet challenging adventure that showcases Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and provides a glimpse into the remote highlands of the Lingshi region. Along the way, trekkers can observe the unique lifestyles of the nomadic high-altitude dwellers, immersing themselves in the local culture and customs.Whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast looking for a shorter trek with breathtaking scenery, the Jomolhari Trek offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bhutan.

The Jomolhari Trek is special for several reasons, making it one of Bhutan's most iconic and sought-after trekking routes. Here are the key features that set it apart:

1. Breathtaking Views of Mount Jomolhari
The trek offers unparalleled views of Mount Jomolhari, one of the most beautiful and sacred mountains in the world. Rising to 7,314 meters, Jomolhari stands as a majestic symbol of Bhutan’s natural beauty. Trekkers are treated to stunning views of the mountain from various points along the route, including Jomolhari Base Camp.

2. Sacred Significance
Jomolhari is revered as a sacred mountain by both the Bhutanese and Tibetans. The trek allows you to experience the spiritual side of Bhutan, with the deity of Jomolhari worshipped in a monastery located just below the base camp. This sacred aspect adds a layer of mysticism to the trek, connecting you to Bhutan's rich cultural and religious traditions.

3. Diverse Landscapes
The trek takes you through a variety of stunning landscapes, including lush rhododendron forests, high-altitude pastures, and deep valleys. This diversity of terrain, ranging from 2,500 meters to nearly 5,000 meters in altitude, provides trekkers with a rich tapestry of nature’s beauty, from vibrant greenery to rocky, high-altitude alpine meadows.

4. Remote Highland Villages and Nomadic Culture
The Jomolhari Trek immerses you in Bhutan's highland culture, especially in the Lingshi region. Here, you’ll encounter nomadic herders and experience the unique lifestyles of these high-altitude dwellers. This provides a rare opportunity to witness Bhutan’s rural traditions, including their methods of animal husbandry and traditional practices.

5. Iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery
The trek begins with a visit to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan's most iconic and picturesque religious sites. The journey to this monastery is a spiritual and cultural prelude to the rest of the trek, introducing trekkers to the deep religious significance of Bhutan.6. Challenging Yet AccessibleWhile the Jomolhari Trek offers a moderate level of difficulty, it’s still accessible for those with basic trekking experience. The trek provides an excellent challenge without requiring technical climbing skills, making it suitable for avid trekkers and those looking to experience high-altitude adventure.

7. High Mountain Passes
The trek includes two high-altitude passes—Nyile La (4700m) and Yale Pass (4950m). Crossing these passes offers exhilarating views and a sense of accomplishment, as trekkers navigate through some of Bhutan's most remote and rugged landscapes.

8. Incredible Flora and Fauna
Along the trek, you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of rhododendron, blue poppies, and various wildlife such as musk deer, yaks, and snow leopards. The journey offers nature lovers and photographers a wealth of opportunities to capture Bhutan’s untouched wilderness.

9. Cultural Immersion
Beyond the scenic beauty, the trek offers an authentic cultural experience. From the monasteries and sacred sites to the interactions with locals, the trek is as much about exploring Bhutan's spiritual heart and traditions as it is about the physical challenge.

Overall, the Jomolhari Trek is special because it combines scenic beauty, cultural significance, spirituality, and a unique adventure, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for trekkers seeking to explore Bhutan's natural and cultural treasures.

If you are looking for answers to specific questions, read here or go here to see some of our blog posts

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Overnight in tents while on trek

From 15 days but the tour can be shorted to return from Jangothang thereby avoiding the two high passes

Starts and ends in Paro and includes some sightseeing. A pre and post tour of Kathmandu can be included.

Scenic, rugged and not as steep as some of the other Bhutan Treks. It includes two high passes

JOMoLHARI (CHOMoHARI) TREK AT glance

JOMOLHARI TREK itinerary

Day-1: Arrive Paro - Thimphu

Upon arrival meet with our representative and after lunch transfer to Hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Paro.

Day-2: Paro Sightseeing

Visit Kychu Lhakahang, National Museum and Paro Dzong. Later in the evening assemble the trekking gear. Overnight at Hotel in Paro.

Day-3: Paro - Shana

Drive up to Drukgyel Dzong where the road ends and trek begins, follow the river gently uphill through a agricultural valley and the village. Overnight stop at height of 2,800 m. Dist. 17 km. 5 to 6 hours.

Day-4: Shana - Thangthayka

Continue uphill through the alpine forest. It narrows and closes in and the winds along the drainage. The trek is mostly through the deep forest. Camp is in a meadow with a stone shelter. Alt. 3750m. Dist. 20 km. 8 to 9 hours.

Day-5: Soi Thangthayka - Jangothang

Continue up the Pa Chhu (river). Pass a small army post where the valley begins to widen again. Now views of high ridges and snow-capped peaks can be seen all around. Camp beneath a ruined fortress at the base of Mt. Jhomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake. Alt: 4,040 m, Dist: 19 km, time about 6 1/2 hrs.

Day-6: Jangothang

Trek up to Tsophu for fishing or do any one of the three hiking excursions. Mt. Jhomolhari and its subsidiary are due west, Mt. Jichu Drake is to the north, unclimbed summits and ridges are to the east.

Day-7: Jangothang - Lingshi

Wide yak pastures are visible both on ways up and down the pass. You may encounter some nomads in their yak tents. You can see the Lingshi Dzong. Tserim Kang and its descending glaciers are at the north end of the valley from the Nyuele la pass alt. 4700m. Camp at alt: 4150 m, dist: 19 km. 7 to 8 hours.

Day-8: Lingshi

On this day, at Lingshi for one-day excursion to Tsokha, the base camp of Jichu Drake. Large herds of blue sheep and musk deer may be seen. Alt: 4,500 m, dist 15 km.

Day-9: Lingshi - Shodu

The trail ascends up to the Yalila Pass, altitude 4820 m, from the pass, Mt. Jhomolhari, Tserim Gang and Mt. Masagang can be seen on clear days. Then descend. Camp at ht: 3,963 m, 22 km. 9 to 10 hours.

Day-10 : Shodu - Barshong

Follow Wang Chhu through the forest of rhododendron and waterfalls, the river then narrows and closed in and the trail winds ascending to the ruins of Barshong Dzong. Camp just below the Dzong. Atl: 3,785 m dist: 13 kms. 6 to 7 hours.

Day-11: Barshong - Dolam -Kencho

Descend gradually to meet Wang Chhu, passing through forests of Rhododendron, then ascend once again onto pasture land. Camp in meadow. Atl: 3,628 m, dist: 11 km. 5 to 6 hours.

Day-12: Dolam Kencho - Thimphu.

Continue uphill through the forest to a small pass. The trial winds up and along the drainage. Wild animals may be seen. At Dodina, meet the transportation for drive to Thimphu. Dist: 14 km. 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at Hotel in Thimphu.

Day-13: Thimphu - Punakha

Morning Thimphu sightseeing, visit Memorial Chorten, Painting School, National Library. After lunch drive to Punakha/Wangdi across the Dochula Pass ( Alt: 3050m ) where once can see the beautiful views across the Dochula Pass (Alt: 3050 m) of Eastern Himalayan Range. Overnight at Hotel in Wangdi.

Day-14: Punakha - Paro

Visit Wangdi Dzong and Punakha Dzong, which is the winter home of Central Monk body (Je-Khenpo). After lunch transfer to Paro. Overnight Hotel

Day-15: Final Departure.

Drive to airport for the final departure.

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bELOW ARE SOME OF THE QUESTIONS WE ARE FREQUENTLY ASKED about the jomolhari TREK

Where is Bhutan?

Bhutan is nestled in between India and the Tibetan region of China. Bhutan was known as ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, and often also referred as the last Shangri-la.

Do I need a visa for Bhutan?

Yes a visa for Bhutan is required for every foreign traveler and has to be processed by a local tour operator, as no foreign embassy abroad grants tourist visas. The visa cost is currently $40 and your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you leave Bhutan.

Is the water safe to drink?

Tap water is not safe to drink so you would need to buy mineral water which is readily available. Mineral water is readily available throughout the country. While on trek the guides will ensure that the water is boiled.

What plug points are used in Bhutan?

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M. As a traveller from South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, G.

When is the best time or months to trek to Jomolhari base camp?

The best to come to Bhutan for trekking is in the spring, from March to May, or the autumn, from September to November. Skies are clear and bright, the sun is usually shining, and the temperature is warm, though sometimes a little chilly in the evenings.

Summer, from June to August, is the monsoon season in Bhutan, and while the rain mostly falls at night or in the evenings, there are times when it can rain all day long.

Is the base camp trek the same as the Jomolhari Loop Trek?

These two treks are different. the Jomolhari Loop Trek is called a “loop” trek, because the trek heads out to Jangothang and then comes back to Gunitsawa Village following a slightly different route that you went up on returning instead via Thongbu. The loop trek from Gunitsawa Village to Jangothang and back takes around seven days, and covers a distance of around 82 kilometers, or around 50 miles. By comparison the base camp trek is longer and also at higher altitude as it includes two high passes.

What are the meals like on the trek?

All meals on trek are prepared for by the support team. We can also cater for vegetarian and any other dietary requirements.

Why are treks in Bhutan so expensive compared to Nepal and India?

Bhutan has ‘High Value, Low Impact’ tourism policy to preserve its cultural heritages and environment. Thus, with a high rate, it welcomes responsible travelers and few visitors. The policy is built on a daily “visa” fee of US$250 during the high season (which runs March to May and September to November), and US$200 during the low season (all other months). The amount sounds alarming, but is actually a minimum spending requirement that includes meals, three-star (minimum) accommodations in city hotels or countryside resorts, land transport, and guide service for every day spent in the country.

What temperatures can we expect while trekking?

The weather in the mountains is difficult to predict as it varies from one month to the next and also on altitude gain. Nights are generally colder (-2C to -15C) than the daytime (5C to 20C). It is also important to make sure that you stay warm and dry in all weather conditions.

Where can I get climbing Insurance for Jomolhari or Bhutan treks?

If you are going hiking or climbing or trekking then you need extra cover for your activities. Hiking and Climbing have become popular for many adventure seekers looking to add a climb up Kilimanjaro or a trek to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna or even Island Peak to their list of amazing adventures. But any climb to high altitude carries with it a number of risks and having the correct and good trekking insurance is an absolute must. We recommend two different groups depending on which country you reside in. For further details, click on the icon

How difficult is the hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery (Takstang)?

The elevation gain is around 530m or 1700 feet so it is a substantial climb and takes around 5-7 hours in total. However it is well worth the effort. By doing this at the start of the tour it helps with acclimatisation.

What are the hotel standards in Bhutan?

Hotels in Bhutan are rated according to a National 5 star rating system. This does not mean all hotels are 5 star, but rather that every classification of accommodation from home stays to guesthouses, have to adhere to a set of government standards. As such, the standard hotels, lodges and guesthouses are usually good, often small and with a great ambiance. All tour operators are required to provide their guests with a minimum of 3 Star accommodations so you can be assured of your comfort. Most hotels provide their guests with television, room service, fitness centers, spas and wi-fi. However the exact services available will vary from hotel to hotel. The more popular tourist destinations like western and central Bhutan usually have the higher standards of star rated European and Asian properties. There are a few luxury hotels and resorts, but they are rather expensive. If starting in Nepal, we spend two nights in 3-star, Thamel Eco Resort, well situated within the heart of Thamel, or, if it is full, a similar category in Kathmandu. At the end of the tour we return to the same hotel.

Is the altitude a cause for concern on Jomolhari treks?

This is one of the most often asked questions - "how will I cope with the altitude". To be honest, this is an 'unknown' factor as no-one can predict how your body will cope at altitude. People who have been to altitude many times in the past without problems, may on one climb suddenly develop problems. There are many factors that play a role. The only way to help combat this, is to take all of the necessary precautions, and walk slowly, acclimatise correctly, don't ascent too quickly and drink plenty of water.

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