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Bhutan’s Ultimate Alpine Odyssey: The Snowman Trek
- 30 Days / 29 Nights
- Paro, Thimphu, Shana, Soi Thangthangkha, Jangothang (Jomolhari Base Camp), Lingshi, Chebisa, Shomuthang, Robluthang, Limithang, Laya, Rodophu, Narethang, Tarina, Woche, Lhedi, Thanza (Lunana), Tshorim, Gangkar Puensum Base Camp (optional side trip), Geshe Woma, Warathang, Dur Tsachu (Hot Springs), Tshochenchen, Bumthang (exit).
Embark on the legendary Snowman Trek, an unparalleled 30-day expedition often hailed as the toughest trek in the world. This is not merely a hike; it is a profound journey into the heart of Bhutan’s most remote and majestic mountain wilderness, traversing the high Himalayas along the border with Tibet. You will cross eleven high passes, many soaring above 5,000 meters, venture into the secluded Lunana valley, and witness landscapes of extraordinary beauty, from dense forests and alpine meadows to glacial lakes and towering, unclimbed peaks. This fully supported camping trek demands exceptional physical and mental fortitude but rewards with an experience of a lifetime, offering a deep connection with pristine nature and the resilient spirit of the Himalayan people. This is a true adventurer’s pilgrimage, an odyssey into the raw, untamed beauty of the Last Shangri-La.
Highlights
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Conquer the Legendary Snowman Trek: Successfully complete one of the world's most challenging and iconic high-altitude treks.
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Cross Eleven High Passes: Navigate numerous passes over 4,500m, with several exceeding 5,000m, testing your endurance.
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Journey into Remote Lunana: Explore the isolated and culturally unique Lunana valley, home to some of Bhutan's most remote communities.
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Unparalleled Himalayan Vistas: Witness breathtaking, up-close views of unclimbed giants like Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Masang Gang, Tshendagang, Teri Kang, and Gangkar Puensum.
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Pristine Alpine Wilderness: Immerse yourself in untouched landscapes of glaciers, turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and dense forests.
What to Expect
Tour Type
Extreme High-Altitude Expedition, Trekking, Wilderness Camping, Cultural Immersion (remote villages)
Activities
Multi-week High-altitude Trekking, Camping in remote wilderness, Crossing multiple high passes, Exploration of remote villages (Laya, Lunana), Hot springs (optional), Unparalleled Himalayan Views, Cultural Sightseeing in Paro/Thimphu.
Altitude
5,320m
Places
Paro, Thimphu, Shana, Soi Thangthangkha, Jangothang (Jomolhari Base Camp), Lingshi, Chebisa, Shomuthang, Robluthang, Limithang, Laya, Rodophu, Narethang, Tarina, Woche, Lhedi, Thanza (Lunana), Tshorim, Gangkar Puensum Base Camp (optional side trip), Geshe Woma, Warathang, Dur Tsachu (Hot Springs), Tshochenchen, Bumthang (exit).
Best Time to Go
Late September to mid/late October. This is a very narrow window when the high passes are most likely to be free of snow. Early June is sometimes attempted but is much riskier due to pre-monsoon snow.
Departure/Return Location
Paro International Airport
Accomodation
3-star Hotel
Transportation
We use comfortable vehicle for the tour
Free Cancellation
Refer our cancellation policy for details
Guide
Licensed Tour Guide
1
Day 1 - Arrive Paro & Transfer to Thimphu
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport (PBH), you will be warmly greeted by your local guide and private driver. After immigration formalities, you will be transferred to Thimphu (2,350m / 7,710 ft), the capital city, a scenic drive of approximately 1.5 hours. The rest of the day is for gentle acclimatization and settling into your hotel. This initial day in Thimphu helps your body begin adjusting to the altitude.
- Overnight: Thimphu (Hotel).
2
Day 2 - Thimphu – Acclimatization, Sightseeing & Trek Preparation
Today is dedicated to further acclimatization and exploring Thimphu’s cultural highlights. You’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten, the giant Buddha Dordenma statue, and perhaps Tashichho Dzong. In the afternoon, your trekking guide will conduct a thorough trek briefing, check your gear, and finalize all preparations for the epic journey ahead. This is a crucial day to ensure everything is in order.
- Overnight: Thimphu (Hotel).
3
Day 3 - Thimphu to Paro – Tiger's Nest Hike for Acclimatization
After breakfast, drive back to Paro (2,250m / 7,380 ft). Today, you will undertake a significant acclimatization hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), perched at 3,120m. This challenging hike not only offers spiritual rewards but also serves as an excellent acclimatization exercise before starting the Snowman Trek. The round trip takes about 4-5 hours.
- Overnight: Paro (Hotel).
4
Day 4 - Trek Day 1: Paro – Shana (Drive to Trailhead) – Soi Thangthangkha
Drive from Paro to Shana Zampa (2,850m), the trek starting point. The trek begins by following the Pa Chhu (Paro River) through pine and rhododendron forests. The trail is undulating. You’ll trek to Soi Thangthangkha (3,610m / 11,840 ft), your first campsite.
- Overnight: Campsite at Soi Thangthangkha.
5
Day 5 - Trek Day 2: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang (Jomolhari Base Camp)
The trail continues to follow the Pa Chhu, gradually ascending. As the valley widens, you get your first breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari (7,326m). You’ll pass through army camps and yak herder settlements before arriving at Jangothang (4,080m / 13,385 ft), the Jomolhari Base Camp.
- Overnight: Campsite at Jangothang.
6
Day 6 - Trek Day 3: Jangothang – Acclimatization & Exploration
A crucial acclimatization day at Jangothang. You can take short hikes to explore the surrounding areas, perhaps towards Jomolhari glacier, visit Tshophu Lake, or simply enjoy the stunning views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
- Overnight: Campsite at Jangothang.
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Day 7 - Trek Day 4: Jangothang to Lingshi via Nyile La Pass
Today involves crossing your first major pass, Nyile La (4,870m / 15,978 ft). The ascent is challenging but rewards with incredible views. After the pass, you descend to the Lingshi basin and camp at Lingshi (4,010m / 13,156 ft), near the impressive Lingshi Dzong.
- Overnight: Campsite at Lingshi.
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Day 8 - Trek Day 5: Lingshi to Chebisa
A relatively shorter day. The trail takes you past Lingshi Dzong and through villages and yak pastures. You’ll reach the charming village of Chebisa (3,880m / 12,730 ft), where you’ll camp.
- Overnight: Campsite at Chebisa.
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Day 9 - Trek Day 6: Chebisa to Shomuthang via Gombu La Pass
The trek continues with an ascent to Gombu La Pass (4,450m / 14,600 ft). After the pass, you descend through rhododendron forests to a river, then climb again to reach the campsite at Shomuthang (4,220m / 13,845 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Shomuthang.
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Day 10 - Trek Day 7: Shomuthang to Robluthang via Jari La Pass
Today involves crossing Jari La Pass (4,750m / 15,584 ft). From the pass, you descend steeply towards the Tsharijathang valley, where herds of takin are sometimes spotted. Continue to your campsite at Robluthang (4,160m / 13,648 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Robluthang.
11
Day 11 - Trek Day 8: Robluthang to Limithang via Shinge La Pass
This is a challenging day as you cross the formidable Shinge La Pass (5,005m / 16,420 ft), often the highest point for many trekkers who don’t continue into Lunana. The views from the pass are spectacular. You then descend to Limithang (4,140m / 13,583 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Limithang.
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Day 12 - Trek Day 9: Limithang to Laya
A pleasant walk downhill along a narrow, winding river valley, through dense pine forests. You’ll arrive at the large village of Laya (3,840m / 12,598 ft), home to the unique Layap people with their distinctive culture and attire.
- Overnight: Campsite at Laya.
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Day 13 - Trek Day 10: Laya – Rest & Exploration Day
A rest day in Laya to explore the village and interact with the Layap people. This is an important opportunity to experience one of Bhutan’s most distinct highland cultures.
- Overnight: Campsite at Laya.
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Day 14 - Trek Day 11: Laya to Rodophu
The trail continues through forests, following a river. You’ll pass an army camp and gradually ascend to the campsite at Rodophu (4,160m / 13,648 ft), nestled in a rhododendron-filled valley.
- Overnight: Campsite at Rodophu.
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Day 15 - Trek Day 12: Rodophu to Narethang via Tshemo La Pass
Today involves a steady climb to Tshemo La Pass (4,900m / 16,076 ft). You’ll trek above the tree line with views of Lunana and surrounding peaks. Camp at Narethang (4,900m / 16,076 ft), beneath Gangla Karchung peak.
- Overnight: Campsite at Narethang.
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Day 16 - Trek Day 13: Narethang to Tarina via Gangla Karchung La Pass
Cross the Gangla Karchung La Pass (5,120m / 16,798 ft). The views of the mountain ranges are breathtaking. You’ll descend steeply to the Tarina valley and camp at Tarina (3,970m / 13,025 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Tarina.
17
Day 17 - Trek Day 14: Tarina to Woche
A pleasant walk through coniferous forests following the Tang Chhu river. You’ll pass several beautiful waterfalls. The trail leads to Woche (3,910m / 12,828 ft), the first village in the Lunana region.
- Overnight: Campsite at Woche.
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Day 18 - Trek Day 15: Woche to Lhedi via Keche La Pass
Cross Keche La Pass (4,650m / 15,256 ft) and descend into the Thega village. Continue along the river to Lhedi village (3,700m / 12,139 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Lhedi.
19
Day 19 - Trek Day 16: Lhedi to Thanza
A relatively easier walk today, passing Chozo village and its Dzong. You’ll reach Thanza (4,150m / 13,615 ft), the main village in Lunana, situated by a large lake.
- Overnight: Campsite at Thanza.
20
Day 20 - Trek Day 17: Thanza – Rest & Exploration in Lunana
A crucial rest and acclimatization day in Thanza. Explore the village, interact with the locals, and enjoy the stunning views of Table Mountain (Tshendagang).
- Overnight: Campsite at Thanza.
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Day 21 - Trek Day 18: Thanza to Tshorim via Danji La Pass
Ascend towards Danji La Pass (5,150m). The views are spectacular. Descend to the campsite at Tshorim (5,120m / 16,798 ft), near a beautiful lake.
- Overnight: Campsite at Tshorim.
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Day 22 - Trek Day 19: Tshorim to Gangkar Puensum Base Camp area via Rinchen Zoe La Pass
Today you cross the highest pass of the trek, Rinchen Zoe La (5,320m / 17,450 ft). The views of Gangkar Puensum are breathtaking. Descend to the upper reaches of the Mangde Chhu valley to camp in the Gangkar Puensum Base Camp area (approx. 4,970m / 16,305 ft), near Geshe Woma.
- Overnight: Campsite near Geshe Woma.
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Day 23 - Trek Day 20: Geshe Woma to Warathang via Karchung La Pass
The trail continues through remote alpine landscapes, crossing Karchung La Pass (5,240m / 17,191 ft). Descend to the campsite at Warathang (4,000m / 13,123 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Warathang.
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Day 24 - Trek Day 21: Warathang to Dur Tsachu (Hot Springs)
A long descent today, following the river through forests. You’ll arrive at Dur Tsachu (3,590m / 11,778 ft), famous for its therapeutic hot springs. A great opportunity to soak and relax.
- Overnight: Campsite at Dur Tsachu.
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Day 25 - Trek Day 22: Dur Tsachu – Rest & Enjoy Hot Springs
A well-deserved rest day to enjoy the hot springs and recover from the challenging trekking days.
- Overnight: Campsite at Dur Tsachu.
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Day 26 - Trek Day 23: Dur Tsachu to Tshochenchen
The trail involves a climb through forests of juniper, spruce, and rhododendron, crossing a smaller pass before descending to the campsite at Tshochenchen (3,850m / 12,631 ft).
- Overnight: Campsite at Tshochenchen.
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Day 27 - Trek Day 24: Tshochenchen to Nikachu (Drive to Bumthang)
The final day of trekking. It’s a gradual descent through forests, following the Yoleng Chhu river to the road head at Nikachu Chazam (2,650m / 8,694 ft). Here, your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to Bumthang (Jakar), the spiritual heartland of Bhutan (approx. 2-3 hour drive).
- Overnight: Bumthang (Hotel).
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Day 28 - Bumthang – Rest & Local Sightseeing
A day of rest and gentle sightseeing in Bumthang. You can visit important monasteries like Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang, and explore Jakar Dzong. Enjoy the comforts of a hotel and proper meals.
- Overnight: Bumthang (Hotel).
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Day 29 - Bumthang to Paro (Flight)
Take a domestic flight from Bumthang (Bathpalathang Airport – BUT) to Paro (PBH). This scenic flight offers incredible aerial views of the Himalayas, a fitting contrast to your on-the-ground journey. Upon arrival in Paro, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for relaxation or last-minute souvenir shopping.
- Overnight: Paro (Hotel).
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Day 30 - Depart from Paro
After a final breakfast in Bhutan, your guide and driver will transfer you to Paro International Airport (PBH) for your departure. You will leave with the immense satisfaction of having completed one of the world’s most formidable and rewarding treks.
