Jhomolhari Trek

This is a superb trek for strong walkers. It goes into northern Bhutan to the land of yak herders and to the base of Mt. Jhomolhari, at 7,316m (24,000 feet) and on to remote Lingshi Dzong. There are fabulous views of the mountains and exceptional flora. You will encounter many yak-herders but few villages. The maximum latitude is that you pas through is 4,900m (16,000 feet). A pass through the army post of Gunyitsawa at 2,810m, which is the last stop before you enter into Tibet.

The route enters Jigme Dorji National Park crossing through rocky trails through Oaks, rhododendron and ferns, crossing several small streams. There are numerous short climbs and descents. You will pass through several villages: Soe, Takethang, Dangochang, each of its own kind. A day in Jangothang is the highlight of the trek, views do not get any better than here. There are lots of hikes and that you can make and a day here is spent very well. Lingzi is one of the old trade routes between Punakha and Gyantse and was used by the Tibetan armies during various attacks on Bhutan. This region has a wide variety of herbs, many of which have medicinal value. The trail traverses under big rocks and glacial valleys with numerous moraines. There are 02 versions of this trek; the shorter and easier version is a three-day trek from Paro to Jhomolhari Base camp at Jangothang, returning to Paro via the same route or by an alternative trail. The longer version crosses two high passes from Jangothang and makes it’s way to Thimphu.

Itinerary

Day 01: Drugyel Dzong to Sarna Zampa 2,870m
Day 02: Sarna Zampa to Thangthangka 3,630m
Day 03: Thangthangka to Jangothang 4,090m
Day 04: Acclimatize! Explore Jangothang 4,090m
Day 05: Jangothang to Lingzhi 4,010m
Day 06: Lingzhi to Shodu 4,110m
Day 07: Shodu to Barshong 3,680m
Day 08: Barshong to Dolma Khencho 2,320m
Day 09: Dolma Khencho to Thimphu