Legendary Snowman Trek
Overview
Regarded as one of the hardest and most spectacular treks in the world. Traverse the remote Lunana region, cross 11 passes over 4,500m, and witness untouched Himalayan beauty. Enjoy local cuisine, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery throughout the day.
This itinerary is designed to give you a comprehensive experience of Bhutan's unique culture and stunning landscapes.
Highlights
- Remote Lunana region
- Table Mountain (Zongophu Gang)
- Views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake
- Highest settlements in Bhutan
What's Included
- Expert trekking guide & specialized cook
- Additional pack animals & yaks
- Satellite phone support
- All camping & permit fees
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Paro
A warm welcome to Bhutan! Meet your experienced trekking crew for a thorough briefing and equipment check. This is crucial for the Snowman Trek.
Day 2: Tiger's Nest Hike
Acclimatization is key. Hike to Taktsang Goemba (3,120m). Walk steadily and breathe deeply. Offer prayers for a safe journey.
Day 3: Paro - Shana
Drive to Drugyel Dzong. Begin trekking, following the Paro river upstream through farmland and forests to Shana (2,850m).
Day 4: Shana - Thangthangkha
A long day walking through Jigme Dorji National Park. Cross bridges and ascend through oak and rhododendron forests to Thangthangkha (3,610m).
Day 5: Thangthangkha - Jangothang
Trek above the tree line. The valley opens up, revealing the magnificent Mt. Jomolhari (7,314m). Camp at Jangothang (4,080m) beneath the mountain walls.
Day 6: Rest at Jangothang
Active rest day for acclimatization. Hike to the twin lakes of Tshophu or towards the Jomolhari glacier. The views are unmatched.
Day 7: Jangothang - Lingshi
Cross the first major pass, Nyeli La (4,870m). Descend to Lingshi basin with views of the hilltop Lingshi Dzong. Camp at 4,010m.
Day 8: Lingshi - Chebisa
A pleasant walking day. Pass Lingshi Dzong and villages. Arrive at Chebisa (3,880m), a charming village with a large waterfall behind it.
Day 9: Chebisa - Shomuthang
Climb steeply to Gombu La pass (4,440m). Descend through rhododendrons where you might spot Blue Sheep. Camp at Shomuthang (4,220m).
Day 10: Shomuthang - Robluthang
Cross Jhari La (4,750m). Views of the Great Tiger Mountain (Gangchenta). Camp at Robluthang (4,160m), a rocky meadow.
Day 11: Robluthang - Limithang
A challenging day. Cross Shinje La (5,005m), your first 5000er! Descend to Limithang (4,140m), with Gangchenta dominating the valley.
Day 12: Limithang - Laya
Walk down the valley to Laya village (3,840m). The women here wear distinct conical bamboo hats. It's the largest village in the highlands.
Day 13: Rest at Laya
Explore the village, visit the school, and interact with the friendly Layaps. Prepare supplies for the remote Lunana section.
Day 14: Laya - Rodophu
Leave civilization behind. Descend to the river and then climb steeply to Rodophu (4,160m). You are entering the realm of the Snowman.
Day 15: Rodophu - Narethang
Cross Tsemo La (4,910m). The terrain becomes rugged and barren. Camp at Narethang (4,900m) under the shadow of Gangla Karchung.
Day 16: Narethang - Tarina
Cross Karakachhu La (5,020m). The descent is steep into the Tarina valley (3,970m). Looking back, the wall of mountains is awe-inspiring.
Day 17: Tarina - Woche
Follow the river downstream. Climb to Woche (3,910m), the first village of the Lunana region. It's a small, isolated settlement.
Day 18: Woche - Lhedi
Cross Keche La (4,650m). Views of Jejekangphu Gang. Descend to Lhedi village (3,700m), located by the Pho Chhu river.
Day 19: Lhedi - Thanza
Walk along the river to Thanza (4,150m), the 'capital' of Lunana underneath the Table Mountain (Zongophu Gang). Swap yaks here.
Day 20: Thanza - Danji
Climb towards the high ridges again. Views of the massive Thanza valley glaciers. Camp at Danji (4,230m) with views of high peaks.
Day 21: Danji - Tsho Chena
Cross Jaze La (5,150m). It's a high alpine crossing. Descend to camp beside Tsho Chena lake (4,960m). A stunningly cold and beautiful spot.
Day 22: Tsho Chena - Jichu Dramo
Cross Loju La (5,140m). Trek across a series of small ridges to Jichu Dramo (5,050m) camp, surrounded by jagged peaks.
Day 23: Jichu Dramo - Chukarpo
The highest pass! Cross Rinchen Zoe La (5,320m). It feels like the roof of the world. Descend into a new valley system to Chukarpo (4,600m).
Day 24: Chukarpo - Tampetsho
Descend further and then climb Tampetsho La (4,500m). Camp near the stunning Tampetsho Lake (4,300m), believed to be the home of a deity.
Day 25: Descend to Sephu - Transfer
The final push. Descend steeply to the Nikachu Chhu and the roadhead at Sephu. Your vehicle awaits! Drive to Trongsa for a hot shower and celebration.
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