The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and beautiful treks in the world. Known for its difficulty due to the combination of high altitude, long duration, and remote terrain, it is considered more demanding than climbing Mount Everest. This epic adventure takes you through the northern reaches of Bhutan, bordering Tibet, where you will cross thirteen high-altitude Himalayan passes, some exceeding 5,000 meters. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of iconic peaks such as Mount Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, Masangang, Tiger Mountain, and Gangkar Puensum, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Bhutanese Himalayas.
Over the course of this 29-day journey, you will experience Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes, its rich culture, and the hospitality of its people. The trek begins in Paro, where you will take in panoramic views of the Himalayas and visit historical landmarks such as the National Museum and Rinpung Dzong. A hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery follows, serving as both an acclimatization hike and a spiritual introduction to Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage.
The trek progresses through Bhutan’s rugged and remote valleys, offering trekkers the chance to explore pristine alpine meadows, traditional yak herder villages, and ancient monasteries. Along the way, you will cross some of the highest passes in Bhutan, including Shingchen La and Jari La, and camp at some of the most picturesque and secluded locations in the country, such as the base camp at Jangothang, where the views of Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The Snowman Trek is not only physically demanding but also culturally enriching. As you journey through the remote Lunana region, you’ll encounter the local communities who live in isolation and maintain a traditional way of life, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s unique culture. Along the way, you may spot rare wildlife like blue sheep and Himalayan takins while hiking through the pristine wilderness.
The trek culminates with a descent through rhododendron forests and yak pastures, eventually arriving at the village of Maraothang. From there, you will drive to Punakha, visiting the stunning Punakha Dzong and exploring the vibrant capital city of Thimphu. The trek concludes with a visit to the giant Buddha statue in Thimphu, providing a fitting end to an unforgettable adventure.
This incredible trek offers trekkers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the unspoiled beauty of Bhutan’s highlands, while challenging themselves physically and immersing in the rich cultural heritage of one of the world’s last remaining Himalayan kingdoms.
Day 1 : Arrival in Paro
Your journey to Paro takes you over the majestic Himalayan Mountains, offering breathtaking views of Bhutan’s sacred peaks, Jumolhari and Jichu Drake. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Ta Dzong, a former lookout tower now housing the National Museum. The museum features an extensive collection of ancient paintings, armor, philatelic displays, and a “field of Buddhas” that enhances meditation practice. Afterward, take a scenic walk down to Rinpung Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels.” With a fascinating history, the Dzong’s wooden galleries are adorned with exquisite Buddhist artwork. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Paro town, exploring the local market and interacting with the friendly locals.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)..
Day 2 : Acclimatization Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
After breakfast, embark on a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched at 3100m on a steep cliffside about 900m above the Paro Valley. This monastery, dating back to the 8th century, is believed to be the meditation site of Guru Rinpoche, who flew here on the back of a tigress. Along the way, stop for lunch at the Cafeteria Restaurant located midway up the mountain. After exploring the monastery, descend back to Paro.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)..
Day 3 : Paro to Sharna Zampa (Trek Begins)
17 km | 5-6 hours | 300m ascent | 60m descent | Camp Altitude: 2870m
Drive 12km north of Paro to Drugyal Dzong (2580m), where your trek begins. After meeting your trekking crew, begin your descent along a wide trail that follows the Pachhu River, gradually climbing through terraced rice fields and millet fields. Soon, the valley opens up to apple orchards and traditional farmhouses. After passing the army post at Gunitsawa (2850m), your trekking permit will be checked, and you’ll cross the Pachu River on a wooden bridge. Your day ends at Sharna Zampa (2870m), where you’ll camp by meadows surrounded by trees.
Day 4 : Sharna Zampa to Soi Thangkha
22 km | 8-9 hours | 900m ascent | Camp Altitude: 3750m
The trail follows the Pachhu River through pine, oak, and spruce forests. After crossing several streams, reach Shingkharap (3110m) for a hot lunch. Continue the climb through rhododendron forests to reach the camp at Soi Thangkha (3750m), nestled amidst beautiful meadows.
Day 5 : Soi Thangkha to Jangothang
19 km | 4-5 hours | 290m ascent | Camp Altitude: 4040m
Today’s trek gains altitude as you ascend above the tree line. After passing the army camp, the trail follows the river, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks. You’ll pass through yak herder camps and cross a plateau before reaching Jangothang (4040m), a stunning campsite with views of Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake.
Day 6 : Acclimatization Day in Jangothang
Take a rest day to acclimatize with a 4-hour hike to the north of your camp. The hike offers spectacular views of Mount Jichu Drakye and the opportunity to scramble up to 4895m for a panoramic view of Mount Jumolhari. You may also spot blue sheep, Himalayan rhubarb, and griffon vultures. The serene atmosphere of Jangothang, with its grassy plains and old ruined fortress, is a perfect place to relax.
Day 7 : Jangothang to Lingshi
18 km | 6-7 hours | 660m ascent | 660m descent | Camp Altitude: 4010m
The trail takes you up to the Ngye La pass (4700m) and offers stunning views of Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherim Gang. After crossing the pass, enjoy a gradual descent into the valley, where Lingshi Dzong and your camp at 4010m await.
Day 8 : Lingshi to Chebisa
12 km | 4-5 hours | 160m descent | Camp Altitude: 3850m
Visit Lingshi Dzong, perched high on a hill with sweeping views of the valley. The day’s trek is relatively easy, taking you through yak herder camps and villages. After lunch, continue on to Chebisa, a picturesque village with a crystal-clear waterfall. Camp near the stream at 3850m.
Day 9 : Chebisa to Shoumuthang
17 km | 6-7 hours | 570m ascent | 290m descent | Camp Altitude: 4250m
The trek begins with a steep climb up to Gogu La pass (4500m), where you may spot blue sheep. After crossing the pass, continue through rhododendron forests and yak herder camps until you reach Shoumuthang, where you’ll camp at 4250m.
Day 10 : Shoumuthang to Robluthang
18 km | 6-7 hours | 700m ascent | 760m descent | Camp Altitude: 4200m
Today’s trek takes you through alpine meadows to the Jari La pass (4700m), where you’ll enjoy views of Kangbum (6526m). Descend to Tsarijathang valley, home to rare Himalayan Takins. After crossing a stream, continue to Robluthang (4200m), where you’ll camp.
Day 11 : Robluthang to Lingmithang
19 km | 7-8 hours | 850m ascent | 870m descent | Camp Altitude: 4140m
Cross the Shingchen La pass (5005m), the highest pass on the trek, for stunning views of Gangchenta (6840m). The descent through moraine and rocky terrain leads to Lingmithang (4140m), a beautiful meadow camp by the river.
Day 12 : Lingmithang to Laya
10 km | 3-4 hours | Camp Altitude: 3850m
Enjoy a pleasant walk through moss-filled forests to Laya village, Bhutan’s second-highest settlement at 3800m.
Day 13 : Rest Day in Laya
Spend the day exploring the village, famous for its unique culture and traditional black wool kiras worn by the women. Visit local homes and enjoy Bhutanese hospitality with tea and Chang (local wine).
Day 14 : Laya to Rodophu
19 km | 7-8 hours | 900m ascent | 70m descent | Camp Altitude: 4160m
Climb to the Lunana trail junction and then ascend to Rodophu, passing yak herders’ camps and enjoying views of the glacier on Tsenda Gang (7100m).
Day 15 : Rodophu to Narithang
17 km | 5-6 hours | 755m ascent | 15m descent | Camp Altitude: 4900m
The trek continues through alpine meadows to Tshomo La Pass (4915m), offering breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari and the Tibetan border. Continue to Narithang (4900m).
Day 16 : Narithang to Tarina
18 km | 6-7 hours | 220m ascent | 770m descent | Camp Altitude: 4350m
Climb the Ganglakarchung Pass (5120m) for sweeping views of Kangbum and other peaks. After descending through moraines and cedar forests, camp at Tarina (4350m).
Day 17 : Tarina to Woche
16 km | 5-6 hours | 250m ascent | 310m descent | Camp Altitude: 4350m
After climbing out of the valley, ascend to Woche Village, marking the entrance to the Lunana region.
Day 18 : Woche to Lhedi
19 km | 6-7 hours | 300m ascent | 450m descent | Camp Altitude: 4200m
Climb to Keche La pass (4650m) for magnificent views, then descend to Lhedi (4200m), a village with a school and basic health unit.
Day 19 : Lhedi to Thanza
19 km | 5-6 hours | 250m ascent | Camp Altitude: 4250m
Trek through Phochu River valley and visit Chezo Dzong before reaching Thanza, an untouched medieval-like village.
Day 20 : Rest Day at Thanza
Explore Thanza village, or hike to nearby glacial lakes for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 21 : Thanza to Tshochena
18 km | 7-8 hours | 750m ascent | Camp Altitude: 5000m
Climb to the Jaze La pass (5200m) for stunning mountain views before descending to Tshochena (5000m).
Day 22 : Tshochena to Jichu Dramo
14 km | 5-6 hours | 170m ascent | 120m descent | Camp Altitude: 5050m
Climb to the ridge at 5150m for panoramic views of snowy peaks before descending to Jichu Dramo (5050m), the highest campsite on the trek.
Day 23 : Jichu Dramo to Chukarpo
15 km | 5-6 hours | 300m ascent | 950m descent | Camp Altitude: 4400m
Climb to Rinchen Zoe pass (5350m) for views of Gangkar Puensum (7520m) before descending to Chukarpo (4400m).
Day 24 : Chukarpo to Tampetsho
19 km | 7-8 hours | 80m descent | Camp Altitude: 4320m
Descend through yak pastures and forests, before reaching the beautiful Tampetsho Lake at 4320m.
Day 25 : Tampetsho to Maraothang
16 km | 4-5 hours | 280m ascent | 980m descent | Camp Altitude: 3620m
Climb to the Tampela Pass (4600m) for views of blue sheep and descend to Maraothang (3620m), the final campsite of the trek.
Day 26 : Maraothang to Nika Chhu Zam
20 km | 6-7 hours | 970m descent | Camp Altitude: 2650m
Descend through bamboo forests to Nika Chhu Zam, where your trek ends. Transfer to Punakha and check into your Hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m)
Day 27 : Punakha to Thimphu
Drive to Thimphu, visiting Punakha Dzong along the way. After checking into your hotel, visit Kuenselphodrang to see the 169ft Buddha statue. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 28: Local sightseeing in Thimphu
After breakfast drive to visit National Library and Institute for Zorig Chusum (Commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School) then drive to Takin Preserve – Takin is national animal of Bhutan, Later in the afternoon visit Trashichhoedzong, “fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion. The Folk Heritage Museum (Phelchey Toenkhyim), simply Bhutan museums and to National Textile Museum.. Evening time at leisure…
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320)
Day 29 : Thimphu to Paro (Departure)
After the hearty breakfast check out of the hotel and transfer to Paro Airport enjoying the and there your team will bid you the final adieu with an undying hope of your visiting our country again to explore the unvisited parts and regions with many more adventures together. We bid you farewell with picturesque memories of Bhutan.
For your accommodation, we have selected Department of Tourism-approved 3-star hotels, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout your trip. These hotels offer great services and amenities to enhance your experience in Bhutan.
If you would like to make any changes to the hotel selections or upgrade your stay to a higher category, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to assist you in customizing your accommodations to better suit your preferences.
We are here to ensure that your tour is tailored to your needs and expectations. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Day 1: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Day 2: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort (Acclimatization)
Day 3: Trekking – overnight stay at Sharna Zampa campsite – Altitude approx 2870m
Day 4: Trekking – overnight stay at Soi Thangka campsite – Altitude approx 3750m
Day 5: Trekking – overnight stay at Jangothang campsite – Altitude approx 4040m
Day 6: Trekking (Acclimatization) – overnight stay at Jangothang campsite – Altitude approx 4040m
Day 7: Trekking – overnight stay at Lingshi campsite – Altitude approx 4110m
Day 8: Trekking – overnight stay at chebisa campsite – Altitude approx 3850m
Day 9: Trekking – overnight stay at shoumuthang campsite – Altitude approx 4250m
Day 10: Trekking – overnight stay at Robluthang campsite – Altitude approx 4200m
Day 11: Trekking – overnight stay at Lingmithang campsite – Altitude approx 4110m
Day 12: Trekking – overnight stay at Laya campsite – Altitude approx 3850m
Day 13: Day rest – Sightseeing’s – overnight stay at Laya campsite – Altitude approx 3850m
Day 14: Trekking – overnight stay at Rodophu campsite – Altitude approx 4160m
Day 15: Trekking – overnight stay at Narithang campsite – Altitude approx 4900m
Day 16: Trekking – overnight stay at Tarina campsite – Altitude approx 4350m
Day 17: Trekking – overnight stay at Woche campsite – Altitude approx 4350m
Day 18: Trekking – overnight stay at Lhedi campsite – Altitude approx 4200m
Day 19: Trekking – overnight stay at Thanza campsite – Altitude approx 4250m
Day 20: Day Rest – Explore– overnight stay at Thanza campsite – Altitude approx 4250m
Day 21: Trekking – overnight stay at Tshochena campsite – Altitude approx 5000m
Day 22: Trekking – overnight stay at jichu Dramo campsite – Altitude approx 5050m
Day 23: Trekking – overnight stay at Chukarpo campsite – Altitude approx 4400m
Day 24: Trekking – overnight stay at Tampetsho campsite – Altitude approx 4320m
Day 25: Trekking – overnight stay at Maraothang campsite – Altitude approx 3620m
Day 26: Punakha – Overnight stay at Hotel Kingaling
Day 27: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Day 28: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Trekking Inclusion
Please note that the type of vehicle will be, SUV, Ertiga, Innova, H1 Bus, HiAce Bus, or Coaster Bus—will be arranged based on the number of travelers in group before and after the trek including pick from trekking starting and ending point.
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Booking policy:
Payment Policy:
29Days/28 Nights
Bhutan