Chomolhari Trek 12 Days Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive at Paro
In the morning board a flight to Paro. During the flight enjoy the mesmerizing views of Kanchenjunga , Mount Everest , Mount Chomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro, meet our representative who will help you in completing the immigration and custom formalities, then escort you to one of our listed hotels. Evening to be spent at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2 : Paro
Next morning after breakfast, proceed to visit Rinpung Dzong that houses the monastic body of Paro, Thrimpon of Paro district and the office of the Dzongda. To reach Rinpung Dzong you’ll take a walk through the traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. While standing on the bridge take a good view of the architectural wonder of Dzong and the life around it. Then proceed to visit the Tea Dzong a watch tower that was built to defend Rinpung Dzong. It is now serving as the National Museum of the country. It showcases a great collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps. Later in the day pay a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest and most sacred shrines of the 7th century Kingdom. In the evening return to the hotel for dinner and night stay.
Day 3 : Paro – Shana
Next morning start trekking to Shana. The trek starts at Drukgyal Dzong. To reach your first camp site set off north along the Paro river and following an ancient trade route to Tibet. The trek to the valley is long and easy. While trekking you’ll pass through farmhouses, villages and wheat fields. Moving forward we cross the apple orchards and forest. Soon the valley widens and we reach the army post of Gunyitsawa. The trail after Gunyitsawa army post becomes rockier. Finally reaching Shana, we check-in at one of the camps. Enjoy campfire and overnight stay in camps.
Day 4 : Shana – Soi Thangthangkha
On the 4th day of the tour we trail along the side of Paro river. This trek area is densely forested. The trek narrows and closes in and the trail ascends and descends along the drainage. Continuing along the river we climb upward through thick rhododendron forests finally reaching the campsite. Overnight stay in camp at Soi Thangthangkha.
Day 5 : Soi Thangthangkha – Jangothang
In the morning wake up early to witness the spectacular view of sun rays touching Chomolhari peak between two steep valleys. Continue the trail by following the left side of the Paro river leaving behind the tree level and finally entering into the stunning valley. After passing the small army post, you gradually climb into a beautiful valley that becomes much wider and you will view some high and snow capped peaks. On the way you will pass by Yaks before arriving at Jangothang. Overnight stay at the camp in Jangothang.
Day 6 : Jangothang – Lingshi
On the drive to Jangothang, get a chance to visit wide yak pastures on the way up and down the pass. You might get a sight of some people in their yak tents which majorly depends on the time of the year you visit this place. Behold the great views Lingshi Dzong exhibits while coming down into the Lingshi basin.
Day 7 : Lingshi – Shodu
On the 7th day of the tour the trail ascends up to the Yeli-la pass. From the pass one can view Mt. Chomolhari, Gangchhenta, Tserim Khang and Masang Gang on a clear day. To reach Shodu descend alongside a stream to a rock shelter, and then continue on downstream till you reach Shodu. Camp in an open area.
Day 8 : Shodu – Barshong
On the 8th day of this tour we will head to Barshong following the Thimphu river and crossing it six times. A final climb for about an hour will finally bring you to Barshong. The view of rocky cliff faces and waterfalls along the way are alluring and mesmerizing. Enjoy camping below the ruined fortress.
Day 9 : Barshong – DolamKencho
On the 9th day of the tour we proceed to DolamKencho where the trail descends gently down to meet Thimphu chhu passing through the dense forest of birch, Rhododendron and conifer trees across the pasture land. Enjoy overnight camping at the open space.
Day 10 : Dolamkencho – Dodena – Thimphu, 8 km, 3 hours
Next morning leave for Thimphu via Dodena. It is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient culture. Drive through beautiful valleys and passes offering spectacular look to reach Thimphu. Upon arrival, check-in at one of our listed hotels. Rest and relax for the whole day. In the evening take a leisurely walk to explore the place. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 11 : Thimphu – Paro
On the 11th day of the tour set off on a full day sightseeing tour of the Thimphu valley. After lunch, get a chance to visit the Institute for Zorig Chusm, the center to learn 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, the National Memorial Chorten , the National Library which houses an extensive collection of Buddhist literature in block-printed format and Trashichhodong. Spend overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 12 : Depart Paro
After having breakfast, drive to the Paro airport to board flight for onward destination.
