Chomolhari Trek takes you on a high-altitude walking adventure under the foothills of Bhutan's sacred peaks. Explore alpine meadows, and pristine forests, and camp at seasonal shelters of the yak herders. Visit some of Bhutan's iconic cultural landmarks and experience the Himalayan kingdom's rich Buddhist culture and heritage.
Your trip begins in Paro, the only city in Bhutan with an international airport. Explore Ta Dzong, Paro or Rinpung Dzong, and Kichu Lakhang – the three major cultural sites in the city. Before embarking on your trek, you take an acclimatization hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger's Nest.
One of the most visited destinations in Bhutan, the sacred Taktsang Monastery is built on the face of a sheer cliff. According to local lore, Padmasambhava or Guru Rimpoche arrived here from Tibet riding a flying tigress. He meditated at a cave which is the present site of the Taktsang Monastery. It takes around 4-6 hours to complete the hike and is a great warm-up for your upcoming Chomolhari adventure.
Starting from the ancient ruins of the Drugyal Dzong, you trek through terraced fields, apple orchards, and lush forests of pine, bamboo, and rhododendron. The trail takes you close to the Tibetan border and the sacred mountains of Bhutan – Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tshering Gang. Unlike in other Himalayan countries, mountaineering expeditions in Bhutan are banned as the Bhutanese regard the mountains are their spiritual guardians.
You will spend an extra day at Jangothang or Jomolhari base Camp hiking to vantage points and savoring the panoramic views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Tsophu, with its twin lakes filled with brown trouts, lies nearby.
The trail meanders along the Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers which are a lifeline for the farming communities. Crossing high mountain passes you walk past stunning glaciers and isolated settlements of nomadic yak herders. The highest point you will reach is 4950 meters at Yale La pass. At Lingshi you will camp amidst a dramatic landscape under the shadows of the magnificent Lingshi Dzong, an ancient fortress. Barshong Dzong is another grand fort you will come across en route.
Gradually descending from the Himalayan foothills you enter the lush valley of Thimphu where your trek ends. Spend your time in Thimphu discovering the city's highlights and shopping for souvenirs at the lively local market. Unique handicraft items and hand-woven textile make up as great gift items you can take back home. You end your trip to Bhutan with an amazing drive across the lush countryside to Paro International Airport.
Chomolhari Trek is graded as a moderately difficult trek that takes you across high mountain passes above 4000 meters. This is a short high altitude trek that can be done by anyone who is physically fit and have a strong pair of legs. The trail follows an up and down route with no technical sections. You will find this trip much easier if you have done some high-altitude treks or hill-hiking. The best seasons to embark on the Chomolhari trek are spring and autumn.
This is a fully organized camping trek with support staff responsible for setting up tents and serving you nutritious meals. The heavy load (heavy baggage, camping equipment, and food supplies) will be carried by mules or horses. A local trekking guide will lead you through the wild trail while sharing his knowledge about the landscape and culture.
Chomolhari Trek is the right adventure for those seeking to explore Bhutan's pristine landscape and rich culture. It takes you on an ancient trail to the base of Mount Jomolhari, Bhutan's second highest mountain. If you want to discover Bhutan’s pristine nature, join us on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
