Bhutan
Jomolhari Loop is the shortest of the Jomolhari trekking routes, which are the most popular treks in Bhutan. With altitude differences of 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). Trekkers who want to avoid high passes and high altitude can chose an easier version of the Jomolhari Loop by retracing their steps from Jangothang (see days 1-3), while stil...
Day 1Trek Begins from Gunitsawa Village
Day 1Trek Begins from Gunitsawa Village
Gunitsawa Village - Sharna Zampa
This trek begins at Gunitsawa village were you pass the army post. At the army check post your trek permit (provided by your tour operator) will be checked and endorsed. The campsite is on the opposite side of the river, not far from Gunitsawa.
Descent: 80 m Camp altitude: 2,850 m.
Day 2Great view of Mt. Jomolhari.
Day 2Great view of Mt. Jomolhari.
Sharna Zampa - Thangthangkha
Descent: 10 m Camp altitude: 3,610 m.
On this long day, the trail continues with lots of small ups and downs. After going uphill through the river valley the valley finally narrows gradually to a mere path which descends to a meadow where a camp will be set up. From here, if weather permits, you will have the first great view of Mt. Jomolhari.
Day 3Trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley.
Day 3Trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley.
Thangthangkha - Jangothang
Today we continue our trek up the Paro Chhu valley which widens into patches of alpine meadow and scanty growths of forest. In this area yaks and their herder’s homes become a regular feature of the landscape. Passing the villages Soe, Takethang and Dangochang is another asset on this day. After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites of the Himalayas, you will again have a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari.
Day 4Possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow capped mountains
Day 4Possibilities for day hikes with great views of lakes and snow capped mountains
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. Jangothang is a perfect environment for your acclimatization. You can also trek up to Tosoh or hike around the area.
Day 5Climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m
Day 5Climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m
Jangothang - Soi Yaktsa
Ascent: 810m Descent: 1,090m Camp altitude: 3,800m.
The trail leads to a last settlement in the valley and drops to the Paro Chhu. Passing the lake of Tshophu (4,380m) you will climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m, the highest point of this trek route. Reaching the Dhumzo Chhu river, you trek downstream passing the few houses of Soi Yaktsa (Dhumzo) to arrive at your camp soon after.
Day 6Descent to Thombu Shong
Day 6Descent to Thombu Shong
Soi Yaktsa - Thombu Shong
Ascent: 720m Descent: 340m Camp altitude: 4,180m.
The trail climbs 100m over a ridge to drop to another stream then. After crossing the Takhung La pass (4,520m) you descent to Thombu Shong, three yak herder huts with your campsite next to them.
Day 7Trek ends at Gunitsawa Village
Day 7Trek ends at Gunitsawa Village
Thombu Shong - Gunitsawa Village
Ascent: 200m Descent: 1,650m Camp altitude: 2,850m.
Crossing Thombu La pass (4,380m) you will finally reach Gunitsawa where we will stay at the campsite, Sharna Zampa, where you stayed the first night of this trek.
