The Jomolhari Trek is now shortened to 6 days due to the advent of motor roads on both ends of the trail. With altitude differences between 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).
The 6 Day Jomolhari Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Shana (Approx. 2,800m) to Thang Thang Ka
Drive to Shana, the trailhead, after breakfast (approx. 1.5 hours drive).
Distance: ~22 km / Duration: 7–8 hours / Camp Altitude: ~3,610 m
Highlights: Ascent along the Paro Chhu river through thick pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, opening up near camp with views of Jomolhari’s south face.
Day 2: Thang Thang Ka to Jangothang
Distance: ~19 km / Duration: 5–6 hours / Camp Altitude: ~4,080 m
Highlights: Pass through alpine villages like Soe and Takethang. The tree line gives way to open meadows beneath the towering ice wall of Mt. Jomolhari.
Day 3: Jangothang Rest Day
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. There are good chances to spot blue sheep on the upper slopes of the valley. Jangothang is a perfect environment for acclimatization. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area with short trails in three directions. Jomolhari and its subsidiary mountain chains lie directly west, Jichu Drake to the north, and a number of unclimbed peaks to the east.
Day 4: Jangothang to Lingzhi
Distance: ~18 km / Duration: 6–7 hours / Camp Altitude: ~4,010 m / High Pass: Nyile La (4,890 m)
Highlights: Climb over the high Nyile La pass with views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tserim Kang. Descend into the remote Lingzhi basin, dominated by the perched Lingzhi Dzong fortress.
Day 5: Lingzhi to Zhodu
Distance: ~22 km / Duration: 8–9 hours / Camp Altitude: ~4,080 m / High Pass: Yale La (4,950 m)
Highlights: The crucial transition day leaving the Lingzhi region. Climb steeply over Yale La, the highest pass of this entire route. Prayer flags mark the summit before a long descent along the Thimphu Chhu river to Shodu.
Day 6: Zhodu to Barshong, Exit to Thimphu
Distance: ~16 km / Duration: 5–6 hours / Camp Altitude: ~3,710 m
Highlights: Follow the upper Thimphu Chhu river through ancient alpine rhododendron and juniper forests, descending toward the ruined fortress of Barshong Dzong. Exit to Thimphu via vehicle.
