Jumolhari trek in Bhutan is an exhilarating adventure in the Himalayas. First, you will take an acclimatization hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro and then you will start the trek from the historic Drugyal Dzong. For the first three days of the trek you will be following the Pachhu (Paro river) valley to Jangothang base camp. The walk is through country side of Paro through scattered farmhouses, orchards and rice fields. From the base camp you will see the stunning view of Mount Jumolhari (7315m). Jumolhari is the second highest unclimbed peak in the world. The trail takes you through high pastures which are used by yak herders as grazing land for their animals. As you trek you will also come across Lingzhi, the highest settlement in the north with a unique mountain culture. En route you will have spectacular views of Mount Jichu Drake (6989m) and Tshrim Gang (6789m). From Lingzhi, you will descend to the lower valleys of Thimphu through varied vegetation and gorges formed by unique rock canyons. You will finally end your trek in the north of Thimphu valley.
Jumolhari Trek
Start Point
Paro
End Point
Paro
Duration
14N/15D
Grade
Easy
Max Altitude
4820 meter
Meals
B+L+D
Accomodation
Hotel/Lodge
No. of Person
Min. 02 Pax
Jumolhari Trek Highlights
- The Trek starts from Drugyl Dzong in Paro, traverses along Tibet border and ends at Dodena in Thimphu.
- We cross two high passes: Neylela Pass 4700m and Yelela Pass at 4820m in between Lingzhi and Shodu.
- The highest camp altitude is 4100m, Average walking distance 18 km and Average walking time 8 hours.
Jumolhari Trek Detail Itinerary
During the flight, you will experience breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan Peaks like the sacred Jhumolhari & Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Drugyel dzong, the ruined fortress which once defended Paro valley from Tibetan invasion. This fortress, now a burnt shell, was strategic in Bhutan’s defence against Tibetan invasion. The sacred mountain Jhumolhari (7,314 meters) can be seen in the background on a clear day. On the way back we visit the National Museum. After lunch a half-day excursion to the famous Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Den) to the viewpoint. Overnight Hotel.
After breakfast, drive up to Drugyel dzong where the road ends and the Trek begins. Following the Pa Chu River gently uphill through a narrowing valley. Camp is just beyond an Army Post. Altitude: 2800 meters. Distance: 17 km. 5-6 hrs.
Continue uphill through the river valley. It narrows and closes in and the trial winds up and down along the waterway. Camp is in a meadow with a stone shelter built for trekkers. Altitude: 3600 meters. Distance: 21 km. - 7-8 hrs.
On up the Pa Chu River, passing a small Army post where the valley widens again. One can view the high ridges and then the snow-capped peaks located all around. You begin to see Yaks and the yak herders’ camp. Altitude: 4040 m. Distance: 19 km. - 5-6 hrs.
Trek up to Tsophu or there are stupendous day-hikes in three directions. Jhumolhari and its subsidiary are directly west. Jichu Drake to the north, unclimbed summits and ridges to the east.
Wide Yak pastures on the way up and down the pass, possibly see some people in their Yak Hair Tents depending on the time of the year you are there. Great view of Lingshi dzong as you come down into the Lingshi basin if the weather is clear. Tserim Gang and its descending glaciers at the north end of the valley. Camp is in a stone shelter built for trekkers. It has an inside fire pit and you can sleep on a wooden floor or in a tent. Altitude: 4150 m. Distance: 19 km. 5-6 hrs.
A day excursion to Tshokha (lake) i.e. base camp for Jichu Drake. During the excursion it is possible to see hundreds of Blue Sheep and Musk Deer. Altitude: 4500 m. Distance: 15 km. - 3-4 hrs.
The trail ascends up to the Yalila Pass (4820 m.) from the Mount Jhumolhari. On a clear day, Tserim Kang and Masagang can be seen. Camp is in a stone shelter. Altitude: 3963 m. Distance: 22 km. - 7-8 hrs.
Follow the Thimphu Chu River through the thick forest of Rhododendrons and water falls. It narrows and closes in and the trail winds up and down along the waterway. Ascending up to the ruins of Barshong dzong, camp is just below the ruined dzong with a stone shelter. Altitude: 3785 m. Distance: 13 km. - 3-4 hrs.
Descending down to meet Thimphu River following gradually through the forest of rhododendrons and ascending up to the pastureland. Camp in a meadow. Altitude: 3628 m. Distance: 11 km. - 3-4 hrs.
Continue up hill to a small pass. The trail winds up and down along the waterway. Wild animals, such as the Languor, can be seen. At Dodina, meet the transportation van to return to Thimpu and a comfortable hotel. Distance: 4-5 hrs. Overnight Hotel.
A full day sightseeing and shopping in Thimphu. Wander in the town, visit the Handicraft Development Center. Afternoon visit Memorial Chorten, Zilukha Nunnery. Overnight Hotel.
Full day excursion to Punakha/Wangdue (1250 m.) valley across Dochula Pass. On a clear day a whole range of the northern snow capped Himalayan Peaks can be seen from the pass. Overnight Hotel.
Early morning drive to Paro Airport for departure.
Jumolhari Trek Cost Details
Jumolhari Trek Reviews
Jessie Lauren Brown - USA
Pokhara is pure natural city
