Snowman Trek

Today, you will explore quaint Paro and its surroundings: Paro Dzong Also called Rinpung Dzong, the Fortress of a Heap of Jewels, this fortress-monastery is one of the kingdom’s most excellent examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Today, the dzong houses a monastic school, with two hundred resident monks taking meals in a communal room. There are several interesting paintings here, including an unusual Bhutanese interpretation of a mandala, a diagram of the cosmos. As you hop back into your transport, you will cross the traditional wooden covered bridge called Nyamai-Zam, which spans the Paro River. Ta Dzong This watchtower was built in 1649 and renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. The unusual round building is said to be in the shape of a conch shell, with 2.5m-thick walls. Displays include an impressive collection of thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), both ancient and modern, depicting some of Bhutan's saints and teachers, as well as fearsome festival masks. There's a natural-history gallery with a 3D map of Bhutan, while the Heritage Gallery contains such oddities as an egg laid by a mule and a horse horn. Kyichu Monastery This is one of the oldest monasteries in the country, having been built in the 7th century. According to legend, a giant demoness lay across the whole area of Tibet and the Himalayas and prevented the spread of Buddhism. The temple was erected on her left foot—as one of more than a hundred—to help its light overcome her power. Visitors today can still offer butter lamps as a symbol of removing the darkness of ignorance to attain Buddha's luminous clear wisdom. Drugyel Dzong Ruins One of the four principal Dra Dzongs (defense fortress), this dzong was built to commemorate the victory of the Bhutanese over the allied Tibet-Mongol forces. Hence its name Druk Gyal “the fortress of victory." In 1951, the dzong was burnt when a butter lamp fell in the central tower. However, you can still see the ruins and learn about its history.

After breakfast drive to the road point access of Taktshang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. Taktshang means “Tiger’s Nest,” so named because Guru Rimpoche - the 8th century saint who started the Mahayana stream of Buddhism - reportedly flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a flying tiger in the late centuries of the first millennium. The monastery is perched on a cliff nearly 1000m above the Paro valley floor. This day hike is not only historically and culturally interesting, but also incredibly scenic! It takes about two hours to reach the cafeteria, which gives a breathtaking view of the Tiger’s Nest. Continue hiking you can take another hour to reach the temple. Your tour leader will explain all the story and significance of the temple. The hike also serves to help you acclimatize to the altitude and prepare you for the trek in the coming days. On the way back visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, which is an important Bhutanese heritage as it served as a strategic watchtower and a fortress that helped repel numerous Tibetan invasions in the 1600s. Peak of Jumolhari ‘Mountain of the Goddess’ can be seen on a clear day from here (7,329 mts/24,029 ft.). Optional: Drakharpo Monastery After breakfast, you will begin a 60-minute hike to the monastery, which has a small community of monks living nearby. The main temple room is precariously perched on the edge of a rocky cliff. There are some sacred sites to view, including the body-imprint of Vajrayogini and a stone boot belonging to Guru Rinpoche. The monastery is built on a mountain dotted with underground caves. Stroll around town in the evening and then proceed to your resort to prepare for the trek.

This is a long trekking day, taking eight hours to reach the campsite. The trail continues to follow the river; gradually ascending through a mixed forest of blue pine and oak and, later in the afternoon, tall rhododendron trees, birch, fir and maple. Though the trail is a rough and rocky path, it is not too strenuous. In rainy conditions it can be quite muddy. There are several simple wooden bridges to cross and sometimes the river reaches right up to the trail. The lunch break comes after about 4 hours of walking through an ever-narrowing valley. Shing Karap or Thombuzam are popular stopping places at around 3,305m. Several trails lead in other directions, such as the trail to Tremo La (LA: Pass), which was the old salt-trading route to Tibet. Not long before reaching the campsite, the trail leads you up a ridge with a chorten (CHORTEN: Buddhist monument). Beyond, in the distance at the end of the valley Mt. Jomolhari (7314m) comes into view. Finally, after an 8 hour walk, you reach the campsite located in a spacious clearing and directly facing Jumolhari. The view next morning of the sun’s rays striking the peak is breathtaking. Distance: 22km Time: 7-8 hours Ascent: 2,526ft (770m) Descent: 33ft (10m) Camp Altitude: 11,844ft (3,610m)

The second day’s trek is shorter so it’s possible to set off a little later and progress at a leisurely pace. When you reach an army outpost you are required to stop and register your entry permits issued by the army headquarters in Thimphu. This matter will be taken care of by your guide. The Pachu River is again to the right and the trail passes through some tiny villages. It will take less than six hours to reach Jangothang. The altitude at the camp is 4,080m and is a beautiful place to spend the night. The imposing, rounded bulk of Jomolhari fills the view to the Northeast and in the evening the profile of the ruined Jangothang Dzong, populated by huge ravens, creates a mystical atmosphere. The area is rich in bird life including the fire-tailed sunbird, ibisbill, white throated dipper, yellow-billed chough, rosy pipit, snow pigeon, blue-fronted redstart, plumbeous water redstart, blood pheasant, snow partridge and many more. Distance: 19km Time: 5-6 hours Ascent: 1,575ft (480m) Camp Altitude:13,385ft (4,080m)

Jangothang, 4080m, Rest and acclimatisation Today is a day to rest and acclimatise to the altitude. The body also needs time to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There are a number of opportunities to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. To aid acclimatisation, a walk to a higher altitude then returning to sleep at a lower altitude is an important and strongly recommended strategy. A 2 hour leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu. You can also do a 4 hour trek to get excellent views of the cone-shaped Jichu Drakye (6989m) which resembles the Matterhorn. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan.

As you climb steeply into an area of glacial moraine, the views of Jichu Drakye and Jomolhari change along with your perspective. A steep and steady climb, perhaps through snow, brings you to the Nyile La, a pass at 4890m. From the top of the windy pass enjoy a 360 degree view. Tshering Gang (6,789) also comes into full view. A fairly tough trek over scree or snow leads down to the valley and then follows the side of a ridge towards the impressively situated Lingshi Dzong (4,370m). The camp site is some distance below the Dzong on a flat area near a community building made of stones, at an altitude of 4000m. Distance: 18 km Time: 6-7 hours Ascent: 2,756ft (840m) Descent: 2,854 (870m) Camp Altitude: 13,156 (4,010m)

Shortly after leaving camp, cross a stream on a wooden bridge and ascend to reach a chorten below Lingshi Dzong, perched on the hilltop with a commanding view of the green hills, a winding river and magnificent peaks. Descend to Lingzhi village notable as a centre for medicinal herbs. From Lingzhi it’s an easy, pleasant walk through villages and yak herders’ camps. Lunch will be served at scenic Goyuna village. After lunch it’s a short walk to Chebisa village and then to camp by the side of a stream at an altitude of 3990 meters. Distance: 10km Time: 5-6 hours Ascent: 918ft (280m) Descent: 1,345ft (410m) Camp Altitude: 12,730ft (3,880m)

Chebisa – Shomuthang, camp altitude - 4220m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 17 Km Today begins with a stiff climb up a ridge to Gogu La at an altitude of 4440 meters, taking nearly 4 hours to the top. After the pass the trail descends through rhododendron forest to a valley of dense forests of birch and fir trees. The trek continues along an undulating path. After crossing a stream, proceed through rhododendron forests and across yak herder’s camps. You may see some flocks of Blue Sheep grazing among the rocky crags above the trail. This is the Shakshepasa valley, one of the most beautiful valleys on the trek. Ascend on a steep trail up the side of the valley to 4220m before a traverse past yak headers huts. Camp is beside a stream at Shomuthang. Distance: 17km Time: 6-7 hours Ascent: 2,920ft (890m) Descent:1,772ft (540m) Camp Altitude: 13,845ft (4,220m)

The trek starts with an ascent up the valley, criss-crossing the stream. Climb to Jhari La (4,600m) then descend on a switchback trail that becomes rough and rocky as it enters a rhododendron forest. The trail enters the Tsheri Jathang valley, the summer grazing ground of the rare Himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s National animal). From here we may have to wade across the stream as the footbridge is frequently washed away. After crossing the stream towards the left bank the trail ascends to Robluthang camp at an altitude of 4160 meters. Distance: 18km Time: 6-7 hours Ascent: 2,297ft (700m) Descent: 2,493ft (760m) Camp Altitude: 13,648ft (4,160m)

A long climb up to the Shinche La (5005 meters). Blue sheep may be seen from the trail. The views of the mountains from the pass are breathtaking. After the pass descend on a rough trail which crosses numerous streams. After lunch the trail descends steeply to the floor of a valley then climbs through a rhododendron forest. Reach a plateau and pass through a cedar forest to our camp. The last part of the trek has fine views of the peak of Gangchey Ta (6840m). Distance: 19km Time: 6-7 hours Ascent: 2,789ft (850m) Descent: 2,854ft (870m) Camp Altitude: 13,583ft (4,140m)

In the morning you wake up with a superb view of Gangchey Ta in front of you. The walk to Laya is very pleasant with wonderful views. You will pass through a damp forest, filled with moss and singing birds. Arrive at Laya village, the second highest settlement in the country, at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The administrative name for the area is Layagewog and the main villages are Toko, Pashi, Neilo, Lubcha, Tonfra and Lungo. Laya is also part of the Jigme Dorji National Park. Distance: 10km Time: 4-5 hours Ascent: 197ft (60m) Descent:1,115ft (340m) Camp Altitude: 12,598ft (3,840m)

Today we can explore the Laya village and see how the villagers live in this high altitude. The village is in one of the most beautiful valleys in the kingdom. You will be doing a short hike after your breakfast in Laya area, and then return for your lunch at the camp. Have a rest at the camp in the afternoon.

The trek leads gradually downhill to the Lunana trail junction, then makes a gradual climb to the camp through a forest of conifers, maple and rhododendron. The trail improves and becomes wider as we climb out of the river valley. We camp at Roduphu near a small stream at 4160m. Distance: 19km Time: 6-8 hours Ascent: 3,379ft (1,030m) Descent: 2,460ft (750m) Camp Altitude: 13,648ft (4,160m)

After following the river for about half-an-hour, you will have a steady climb to a high open valley at 15,092ft (4,600m) and then further up to Tsomo La at 16,076ft (4,900m). Tsomo La offers a superb view of Lunana, Mount Jomolhari, and Jichu Drake, as well as the Tibetan border. The route then crosses a flat, barren plateau until you get to the campsite at Narethang, which is towered by the peak of Gangla Karchung. Distance: 17km Time: 5-6 hours Ascent: 2,428ft (740m) Camp Altitude: 16,076ft (4,900m)

From the camp, you will climb for about an hour to Gangla Karchung La. The view from the pass is breathtaking, and the whole range of mountains, including Jekangphu Gang, Tsenda Kang, and Teri Gang can be seen. The pass descends along a large moraine. Again one has great views: a massive glacier descends from Teri Kang to a deep turquoise lake at its foot. Finally, you have a very long descent through thick rhododendron to Tarina valley, where you will find several good campsites along the Tang Chhu River. Distance: 18km Time: 5-6 hours Ascent: 886ft (270m) Descent: 3,937ft (1,200m) Camp Altitude: 13,025ft (3,970m)

The walk leads down through conifer forests, following the upper reaches of the Pho Chhu river. The trail then climbs over a ridge and drops to the village of Woche at 3940m (13,000 ft). The trek has now entered the Lunana region. We often continue on about an hour past Woche to a spectacular campsite below the Keche La pass. Distance: 17km Time: 6-7 hours Ascent: 886ft (270m) Descent: 1,083ft (330m) Camp Altitude: 12,828ft (3,910m)

It’s a gradual climb from Woche to the campsite below the pass, and then gets steeper on the section up to the Keche La, at 4580m (15,100 ft), after which it drops steeply to Thega village our usual lunch spot. The afternoon hike continues along a beautiful river valley past spectacular waterfalls to Lhedi village where we camp at 3600m (11,800 ft). Sometimes we continue on about an hour or so beyond Lhedi village to a lovely campsite. Distance: 17km Time: 6-7 hours Ascent: 3,215ft (980m) Descent: 1,904ft (1,190m) Camp Altitude: 12,139ft (3,700m)

The trail climbs gradually following the main source of the Pho Chhu to Chozo village. At the small Chozo Dzong there are some lay monks. Above Chozo the valley opens as we approach Thanza village near the foot of 7100m Zogophu Gamp, which is also know as Table Mountain. We camp at Thanza, 4080m (13,300 ft). Distance: 17km Time: 7-8 hours Ascent: 1,476ft (450m) Camp Altitude: 13,615ft (4,150m)

This day is a fantastic opportunity to interact with the hospitable local villagers, and explore the beautiful surrounding area, our farthest point in the Lunana valley. Alternatively you can relax around camp and rest up for some of the tough days ahead. As Thanza is sometimes a transfer point for horses and yaks, it is sometimes necessary to have a day here for our staff to ensure all the necessary yaks are rounded up by the local herders who do not operate on 'Western time'! Please note: Assuming everyone in the trekking party has acclimatized properly up to this point, and our horse/yak logistics are smoothly in place, we may only spend the morning in Thanza, and leave for our campsite up the valley at Danji in the afternoon in order to save the rest day in case it is required later in the trek due to altitude or weather-related concerns while crossing the Rinchen Zoe pass out of Lunana.

Distance 20 km and walking time 7-8 hours. Starting at Thanza and camp at Tshochena (4900m) Today you will be trekking for longer duration so it is advisable to start early as possible. The trail is one and a half hours climb and then gradual all the way to the base of Taze-la. Then climb to Jaze-la pass at 5050m and downhill till the camp site. Distance: 20 km Time: 7-8 hours Ascent: 3,515ft (980m) Descent: 787ft (240m) Camp Altitude: 16,306ft (4,970m)

Follow the bank of the blue-green lake before arriving at a ridge at 16,732ft (5,100m). After going up and down over small hills to reach a glacial lake, the route descends before climbing again up the next pass, the Loju La. Finally, after crossing a small saddle, you will enter a wide glacial valley from where the trail descends gradually to the campsite at Jichu Dramo. Distance: 14km Time: 4-5 hours Ascent: 755ft (230m) Descent: 492ft (150m) Camp Altitude: 16,568ft (5,050m)

Right after leaving the camp, you will climb through a moraine to Rinchen Zoe La. Spectacular mountain scenery with is the reward for climbing the highest pass on this trek route. Rinchen Zoe Peak towers above the pass at 18,537ft (5,650). After you descend from the pass, the route leads into a wide valley with several lakes and goes steeply down along a moraine to the Thamphe Chhu. Here, the vegetation begins to thicken again, and you will see the first real trees since Lhedi. After a couple of hours, you'll reach the campsite at Chukarpo. Distance: 18km Time: 5-6 hours Ascent: 1,050ft (320m) Descent: 2,395ft (730m) Camp Altitude: 15,092ft (4,600m)

It is a short walk to the base of Thampe La and a steep climb to the pass at 4580m (15,100 ft). The trek is then all downhill through rhododendron bushes to the yak pasture of Maurothang where we camp at 3550m (11,640 ft). Distance: 14km Time: 5 hours Ascent: 1,083ft (330m) Descent: 3,346ft (1,020m) Camp Altitude:11,844ft (3,610m)

On our final day of trekking we descend through a beautiful valley to the lovely village of Sephu where the new road-head beyond Nikachu Chazam continues to push up the valley to the upper part of the village. Drive to Punakha and stay overnight in a lovely resort overlooking the valley. We’ll celebrate the successful completion of the trek this evening with some nice drinks.

Drive to Punakha valley to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal stupa, which involves a short scenic hike through paddy fields for about 45 minutes till the hilltop where the temple is located. From here you can also enjoy a majestic view of the underlying valley. The temple itself is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions and the only one of its kind in the world. From here you will take another great hike from the riverside crossing a suspension bridge to other side of the Mo Chu river for approximately 3 km with hours hiking. A picnic lunch is served on the banks of the Punakha river. After lunch, continue to Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan situated at the confluence of two rivers. This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha region. The fortress is a fine example of Bhutan’s rich art and architecture, and our guide who is an expert in iconography will explain all aspects of art, architecture, history and its significance. Drive to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery which is perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (Temple). Interact with the nuns and they love to speak English with visitors and learn about the ways of the world.

Drive to Thimphu in the morning. Stop at Dochula Pass for lunch. On a clear day, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the eastern Himalayan ranges from the pass (3140m). In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten Stupa which is a sacred shrine built in the memory of third king of Bhutan. Countiue visit to Tashichhodzong – the fortress that is now the government’s central administration headquarters, and also the offices of the King and the Prime Minister. Explore the thimphu city by foot and this would be a great time to shop for some souviners to remind you of a great holiday in Bhutan. If you are interested, we can also explore the nightlife in Bhutan in high-end bars and music lounges such as the Mojo Park where young musicians will be belting out covers and originals. It would be interesting to see a bit of Bhutan’s urban culture! Drive Time 2.5 hours

Explore the capital city Thimphu. B/L/D. Drive up to Buddha point and visit Buddha Dordenma-a gigantic statue Sakyamuni Buddha.The statue is filled with over one hundred smaller statues, each of which like the Buddha itself, but made of bronze and gilded with gold. At the height of 59.5 metres, it is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. From here hike to Changangkha through one of Thimphu’s Best hiking trails. Its an easy yet very scenic hike with great views of the underlying city. If you are interested we can have a flag hoisting ceremony to send out some prayers in the world. Here we can organise a pinic lunch in the midst of the pine woods and spectacular views. The hike ends at the beautiful Changangkha monastery. After visiting Changangkha monastery, Continue to the Changlimithang Stadium to watch locals enjoying the national sport of Bhutan – Archery – which is played in a traditional style over a 120m long range and always filled with fun and festive moods. Since today is Sunday, visit the colourful vegetable market where proud villagers behind pyramids of their agricultural produce greet you with stone weights in their hands and smiles on their faces. It is interesting to see what may seem to you as ‘weird vegetables and forest products’ that actually enriches the Bhutanese palate. Visit some of the treasures of the capital - the National Folk Heritage Museum, the Zorig Chusum school of 13 traditional arts/crafts, the Royal Textile Museum and Academy. Visit the Bhutan Post Office to see our famous stamps and you can also make your own stamps (with you on it) here and send postcards to your loved ones at home. Celebrate the final night in Bhutan with a nice dinner in town.

After breakfast at your hotel, your driver will take you to the airport. Your guide will help you with the formalities and fare you well on your onward journey.