Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trek (14 Days)
Embark on an adventurous journey through the Jomolhari Mountain Festival and Trek, blending cultural festivities with breathtaking trekking routes. Experience the unique traditions of Soe communities, witness the grandeur of Bhutan’s snow-capped peaks, and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness. This trek takes you through Paro, Thimphu, and remote Himalayan trails, culminating in the vibrant Jomolhari Mountain Festival.
Overview
- Day 1: Arrive Paro
- Day 2: Paro
- Day 3: Paro – Shana
- Day 4: Shana – Soe Thangthangkha
- Day 5: Soe Thangthangkha – Jangothang
- Day 6: Jangothang – Dangojang
- Day 7: Jangothang – Dangojang
- Day 8: Jangothang – Lingshi
- Day 9: Lingshi – Shodu
- Day 10: Shodu – Barshong
- Day 11: Barshong – Dolam Kencho
- Day 12: Dolam Kencho – Dodena/Thimphu
- Day 13: Thimphu – Paro
- Day 14: Depart Paro
Day 1: Arrive Paro
Arrive in Paro and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas during your flight. Visit the Ta Dzong Museum and Rinpung Dzong for a cultural introduction. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Included Activities:
- Ta Dzong Museum: Showcasing Bhutanese artefacts and religious relics.
- Rinpung Dzong: A historic fortress with stunning architecture.
Day 2: Paro
Hike to Taktsang Monastery, a sacred pilgrimage site perched on a cliff. In the afternoon, visit the reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong with stunning views of Mount Jomolhari. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Included Activities:
- Taktsang Monastery: A renowned Buddhist monastery with spectacular views.
- Drukgyel Dzong: A historical site symbolising Bhutan’s victory over Tibet.
Day 3: Paro – Shana
Begin your trek at Drukgyel Dzong. Walk through rice terraces, apple orchards, and pine forests along the Paro River. Overnight camping at Shana.
Distance:
17 km (5–6 hours)
Day 4: Shana – Soe Thangthangkha
Trek along the Pa Chu River, through forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. Enjoy a riverside lunch before reaching Soe Thangthangkha. Overnight camping.
Distance:
20 km (7–8 hours)
Day 5: Soe Thangthangkha – Jangothang
Ascend above the tree line, passing yak herder camps. Reach Jangothang with stunning views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake. Overnight camping.
Distance:
19 km (7–8 hours)
Day 6: Jangothang – Dangojang
Enjoy the first day of the Jomolhari Mountain Festival, with traditional dances, yak and horse shows, and local games. Return to Jangothang.
Included Activities:
- Mountain Festival: A celebration of Bhutan’s highland culture.
Day 7: Jangothang – Dangojang
Participate in the second day of the festival, featuring cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions, and traditional meals hosted by the Soe community. Return to Jangothang.
Included Activities:
- Cultural Performances: Folk dances and local traditions.
Day 8: Jangothang – Lingshi
Trek over the Nyele-la Pass (4700m) with panoramic views of Bhutan’s peaks. Descend to Lingshi Dzong for the night. Overnight camping.
Distance:
18 km (7–8 hours)
Day 9: Lingshi – Shodu
Climb to Yeli-La Pass (4820m) with breathtaking views. Descend along the Mo Chu River to Shodu. Overnight camping.
Distance:
22 km (8–9 hours)
Day 10: Shodu – Barshong
Follow the Thimphu Chu River, descending through rhododendron and juniper forests to Barshong Dzong. Overnight camping.
Distance:
16 km (6–7 hours)
Day 11: Barshong – Dolam Kencho
Trek through dense forests of birch and rhododendron, crossing streams and ridges. Overnight camping at Dolam Kencho.
Distance:
15 km (5–6 hours)
Day 12: Dolam Kencho – Dodena/Thimphu
Trek to Dodena through coniferous forests. Drive to Thimphu for an overnight stay. Enjoy leisure time in Thimphu.
Distance:
8 km (3 hours)
Day 13: Thimphu – Paro
Explore Thimphu’s cultural highlights, including the National Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum, and the School of Arts and Crafts. Drive to Paro in the evening. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Included Activities:
- National Memorial Chorten: A monument of Bhutanese faith and history.
- Folk Heritage Museum: Showcasing Bhutanese rural life.
Day 14: Depart Paro
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Tashi Delek!