Culture / Bhutan Jomolhari Trek with Mountain FestivalNext tentative Date: Available as a Private Trek on a date of your preference.
Discover Bhutan’s soul on the Jomolhari trek, with stunning landscapes, and experience the vibrant Mountain Festival. |
The Jomolhari trek is a stunning high-altitude journey tailored for seasoned trekkers, with a pace designed for ample acclimatization. This particular departure coincides with the Jomolhari Mountain Festival, offering a rare chance to immerse in the culture of the nomads of Lingzhi. The festival celebrates the region’s unique heritage and the elusive snow leopard, featuring folk songs, dances, and traditional sports like archery and yak riding, performed by locals, park staff, and schoolchildren. Visitors can also enjoy local delicacies and handicrafts, making this a unique cultural experience. The trek begins with a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery, followed by an 8-night journey through the breathtaking mountains of northern Bhutan. Along the way, trekkers will experience Bhutan’s rich culture, natural beauty, and way of life, culminating in the capital city of Thimphu. The itinerary focuses on maximum exploration with minimal driving, ensuring an immersive experience that connects travelers deeply with the soul of Bhutan.
Jomolhari Mountain Festival: Experience the unique cultural celebration of the nomads of Lingzhi, featuring folk songs, dances, archery, yak riding, and local handicrafts. | |
Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Begin your trek with a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, perched high above the Paro Valley. | |
8-Night High-Altitude Trek: Embark on an 8-night journey through the stunning mountains of northern Bhutan, with a focus on acclimatization and exploration. | |
Cultural and Natural Immersion: Discover Bhutan’s rich culture, natural beauty, and traditional way of life throughout the trek. | |
Minimal Driving, Maximum Exploration: Enjoy a trek with minimal driving, allowing for in-depth exploration and a profound connection with Bhutan. |
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Spring lasts from March to mid-April. As the snow melts, the temperature becomes milder. The clarity is on point, and you can witness the grandeur of the snow-capped mountains. It is one of the best times to visit Bhutan and also to trek in the high elevations. The blooming rhododendrons add charm to the trails.
Paro: 2°C/35.6°F (min) to 23.5°C/74.3°F (max), Thimpu: 4°C/39.2°F (min) to 24.5°C/76°F (max), Punakha: 10.4°C/50.7°F (min) to 29°C/84.2°F (max)
Summers start from mid-April onwards and last through early-September, bringing heavy rains, humidity, and dramatic clouds throughout the country. There are chances of floods, and flights could be affected during this time. There’s greenery all over the country, making the surrounding hills scenic with blooming wildflowers.
Paro: 14°C/57.2°F (min) to 26.8°C/80.2°F (max), Thimpu: 15°C/59°F (min) to 25.9°C/78.6°F (max), Punakha: 20°C/68°F (min) to 30.4°C/86.7°F (max)
The temperature becomes very pleasant with the start of autumn. The skies are bright, clear, and sunny, making it a perfect time to visit Bhutan and also for trekking. The mountains look simply breathtaking.
Paro: 1.4°C/34.5°F (min) to 23.4°C/74.1°F (max), Thimpu: 5°C/41°F (min) to 23.1°C/73.5°F (max), Punakha: 9.6°C/49.2°F (min) to 27.5°C/81.5°F (max)
Generally, the Eastern regions and areas above 3000 meters are affected by harsh snow conditions, and it is not advisable to trek during peak winter. However, the weather is much milder and tolerable in the Western and Central Bhutan (although it can get close to freezing point at times), and you can always opt for touring and short hikes.
Paro:-2.6°C/27°F (min) to 14.5°C/58°F (max), Thimpu: 5.8°C/21.5°F (min) to 13°C/55.4°F (max), Punakha: 4.3°C/39.7°F (min) to 19°C/66°F (max)
Group size | Price per person* |
2 people | Inquire |
4 people & above | Inquire |
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Valid until Dec 31st, 2024
Day 1 Oct 10 |
Paro |
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Day 2 Oct 11 |
Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) |
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Day 3 Oct 12 |
Shana - Thongsampa Camp (3,300m) |
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Day 4 Oct 13 |
Thongsampa - Thangthangka Camp (3,500m) |
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Day 5 Oct 14 |
Soi - Thangthangka - Jangothang (4,080m) for the Jomolhari Mountain Festival |
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Day 6 Oct 15 |
Jomolhari Mountain Festival. Rest and acclimatisation. |
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Day 7 Oct 16 |
Day Excursion to Tsophu lakes |
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Day 8 Oct 17 |
Jangothang– Lingzhi (4,000m) |
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Day 9 Oct 18 |
Lingzhi - Shodu (4,100m) |
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Day 10 Oct 19 |
Shodu- Barshong - Domshisa campsite (3,600m) |
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Day 11 Oct 20 |
Domshisa - Dolam Kencho - Thimphu |
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Day 12 Oct 21 |
Thimphu Sightseeing |
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Day 13 Oct 22 |
Thimphu - Punakha |
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Day 14 OCt 23 |
Punakha - Paro |
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Day 15 Oct 24 |
Paro - Kathmandu (Departure) |
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Day 1 Oct 10 |
Paro |
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Arrival, explore Paro and briefings 1 hrs Your flight into Bhutan offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s iconic Mt. Jomolhari. As you descend into Paro Valley, you'll be greeted by the serene landscape of forested hills, the Paro river, and the impressive Paro Dzong perched above the valley. If time allows, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan, before ending the day with a welcome dinner and trip briefing. |
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 2 Oct 11 |
Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) |
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Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3,140m / 10,300ft) After breakfast, drive to the trailhead for the iconic Taktshang Monastery, or "Tiger's Nest," perched nearly 1,000 meters above Paro Valley. The scenic hike takes about two hours to reach the viewpoint cafeteria, offering breathtaking views of the monastery, and an additional hour to reach the temple itself, where your guide will explain its cultural significance. After the hike, visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, with views of Mt. Jomolhari on clear days, and explore Kyichu Lhakhang, Bhutan’s oldest Buddhist temple, before returning to your resort for the trek preparations. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 3 Oct 12 |
Shana - Thongsampa Camp (3,300m) |
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Trek from Shana to Thongsampa Camp 5 hrs | 12 kms Your first trekking day is designed for easy acclimatization, following a gradual ascent along the river through a forest of blue pine, oak, rhododendron, and maple. The trail, though rocky and sometimes muddy, is not overly strenuous, with wooden bridges to cross and sections where the river runs close to the path. After about 4 hours of hiking through a narrowing valley, you'll reach your campsite at Thongbuzam. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 4 Oct 13 |
Thongsampa - Thangthangka Camp (3,500m) |
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Trek from Thongsampa to Thangthangka Camp 5 to On this day, you'll follow a trail that intersects with the old salt-trading route to Tibet, eventually ascending a ridge with a Buddhist chorten. As you approach the campsite after an 8-hour trek, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari at the end of the valley. The campsite, set in a spacious clearing, offers a breathtaking sunrise view of the sun’s rays striking the peak the next morning. | hrs We have out breakfast at the hotel and drive to Paro International Airport. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 5 Oct 14 |
Soi - Thangthangka - Jangothang (4,080m) for the Jomolhari Mountain Festival |
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Trek from Soi to Jahnothang Camp, and visit the Jhomolari Festival 5 to 6 hrs | 12 kms On the third day, enjoy a leisurely trek, taking less than six hours to reach Jangothang, with scenic views of the Pachu River and tiny villages along the way. After stopping at an army outpost for permit registration, you'll arrive at the 4,080m-high campsite, offering stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari and the mystical ruins of Jangothang Dzong. The area is rich in birdlife, and you’ll have the chance to experience the vibrant Jomolhari Mountain Festival, organized by the local nomads of Lingshi and Chebisa. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 6 Oct 15 |
Jomolhari Mountain Festival. Rest and acclimatisation. |
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Festival |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 7 Oct 16 |
Day Excursion to Tsophu lakes |
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Trek to twin lakes of Tshophu 3 to 4 hrs |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 8 Oct 17 |
Jangothang– Lingzhi (4,000m) |
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Trek from Jangothang to Lingzhi 7 to 8 hrs | 18 kms |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 9 Oct 18 |
Lingzhi - Shodu (4,100m) |
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Trek from Lingzhi to Shodu 8 to 9 hrs | 22 kms |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 10 Oct 19 |
Shodu- Barshong - Domshisa campsite (3,600m) |
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Trek from Shodu to Domshisa campsite 7 to 8 hrs | 16 kms |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 11 Oct 20 |
Domshisa - Dolam Kencho - Thimphu |
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Trek from Domshisa to Dodena 5 to 6 hrs | 15 kms |
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Drive from Dodena to hotel in Thimpu |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 12 Oct 21 |
Thimphu Sightseeing |
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Explore Thimpu |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 13 Oct 22 |
Thimphu - Punakha |
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Drive from Thimpu to Punakha 4 hrs |
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Explore Punakha |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 14 OCt 23 |
Punakha - Paro |
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Punakha sightseeing |
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Drive form Punakha to Paro 4 hrs |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 15 Oct 24 |
Paro - Kathmandu (Departure) |
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Fly from Paro to Kathmandu |
Meals Included: Breakfast
Group size | Price per person* |
2 people | Inquire |
4 people & above | Inquire |
Valid until Dec 31st, 2024
Important
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Transportation
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Crew
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Misc
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Except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and Maldives, all other nationalities are required to obtain visa clearance before entering Bhutan. Visas are processed through an online system by a registered Bhutanese tour operator, either directly or through a foreign travel agent. Required documents include a scanned color copy of your passport, a passport photo taken within the last six months, proof of travel insurance for the intended duration, and a visa fee of US $40.
We handle the visa process on your behalf. The processing time typically ranges from 3 to 5 official working days. As long as all the requirements are met, visas for Bhutan are guaranteed. If you are traveling in a group, applications must be processed at the same time and visas will be granted together. The actual visa will be stamped into your passport upon presenting your visa clearance letter at the point of entry.
Bhutan levies a mandatory SDF on all foreign nationals entering the country. As of the last update in August 2023, the fees are USD 100 per night. These fees contribute to a pool of resources that help Bhutan fund its development projects.
Note: The SDF is waived for citizens of three countries – India, Bangladesh, and Maldives, who are only required to pay USD 15 per day.
As the default selection, our itinerary features government-endorsed 3-star hotels. These are clean and hygienic hotels with charming architecture, offering a very comfortable stay accompanied by warm hospitality. Prices for hotels are on a double or twin-sharing basis, which means there will be two people to a room. For families with kids, room allocation depends on your preference and availability. A separate single room can be arranged for an additional charge.
Accommodation options in Bhutan span a wide range, from traditional farmhouses to luxurious five-star hotels. Options become limited and more basic as we go into the Eastern regions and remote areas. If you wish to book a specific hotel or upgrade to luxury lodging, let us know and we will make the necessary arrangements.
Given the nature of travel in Bhutan, all meals are included in the prices. We will have a buffet with a selection of food on most parts of our trip. You will also get to enjoy a variety of local Bhutanese cuisine. Locals love spicy food, but we will tone down the level of spice for you. Feel free to bring along light snacks and energy bars for the days when we go hiking. For vegetarians and vegans, or if you have any other dietary requirements, please let us at the time of booking so we can make arrangements.
Here’s some insight into the local food. The national dish is Ema Datshi (a spicy mix of chilies, veggies and cheese). Other delicacies to try are red rice served with meat or vegetables, buckwheat pancakes, momos (tibetean-style dumplings with pork or veggies), phak sha laphu (stewed pork with radishes), nor sha huentse (stewed beef dish with spinach), phak sha phin tshoem (pork with rice noodles), etc.
• | Good hiking shoes |
• | Cotton or quick dry layer for days |
• | Warm clothing for evenings |
• | Wind proof jackets and pants |
• | Fleece layer |
• | Headgear or sun hat |
• | Extra pair of shoes (preferably, slip-ons) |
• | Gloves or handwarmers |
• | Warm hat |
• | Warm socks |
• | Day bag |
• | Duffel bag/suitcase |
• | Sunglasses |
• | Rain gear |
• | Water bottle |
• | LifeStraw filter or purification tablets |
• | Locks for your backpack/luggage |
• | Walking poles (optional) |
• | Trail snacks and energy bars (optional) |
• | Binoculars |
• | Camera with charger and extra batteries |
• | Phone with charger |
• | Power bank |
• | Travel adapter (type C, D and G) |
• | Sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) |
• | Sanitizer |
• | Bug / Insect repellent |
• | Personal first aid kit |
• | Prescription Medications |
• | Medicines for motion sickness |
• | Rehydration salts or tablets |
• | Original passport |
• | 1 passport sized photo |
• | Photocopy of passport page |
• | Flight tickets |
• | Visa clearance |
• | Insurance |
• | Money (Ngultrum/INR/USD) |
• | Credit card (VISA & MasterCard) |
Please print and fill up the Booking Form. It’s pretty simple and short, please let us know if we can help you with it.
We’ll send terms and conditions, along with payment details. To confirm your spot, please pay 50% of the trip cost in advance.
Note: Full payment to be made at least 7 days before trip departure.
A few days before the trip, the lead guide will host a small briefing to discuss logistics and safety matters, and also answer any questions you have.
Do some light training and set your gears. Then off to the mountains we go!
Experience the quintessential Nepali countryside - green terraced fields, deep valleys, high snowcapped Himalayas, lush forests, grazing cattle, ancient temples, great food and cheeky smiles - all the while trudging on mighty fine trails!
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