The Jomolhari Yaktsa trek is widely regarded as the most popular and well-known 7-day trek in Bhutan, offering trekkers an unforgettable adventure through some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring landscapes in the country. Beginning at the head of Paro Valley, the trek gently progresses into the pristine wilderness of Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Park, where hikers are treated to mesmerizing views of towering peaks, expansive alpine meadows, and shimmering lakes.
The highlight of the trek is the stunning glacier-fed Tshophu Lake, nestled at the foot of the majestic Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tsherimgang mountains, which rise dramatically against the horizon, offering a truly spectacular backdrop. Along the way, trekkers have the opportunity to witness the annual Jomolhari Mountain Festival, a vibrant celebration of the local highlander culture that takes place at the base of Mount Jomolhari.
This event provides visitors with a rare chance to immerse themselves in the traditions, music, dance, and rituals of the people who call this remote and rugged region home. The trek is not just a physically rewarding challenge but also a deeply cultural experience that allows trekkers to connect with the rich heritage of Bhutan while surrounded by its stunning natural beauty. The combination of awe-inspiring landscapes and the opportunity to engage with the local culture makes the Jomolhari Yaktsa trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience, leaving trekkers with lasting memories of both Bhutan's pristine wilderness and the warmth of its people.
DAY 01: ARRIVAL PARO (2250 m)
Upon arrival at Paro airport, your local tour guide will greet you and provide a short introduction. Afterward, you will be transferred to your hotel for a short break before embarking on your cultural exploration of Paro valley. Your sightseeing includes a visit to Paro Rimpung Dzong, a majestic fortress overlooking the valley, and the National Museum, which offers insights into Bhutan’s rich cultural history. You'll also visit Jangsa Dumtse Lhakang, a hidden temple known for its unique structure, and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll around Paro town, immersing yourself in the local ambiance before returning to your hotel for rest.
DAY 02: TIGER’S NEST HIKE (2950 m) – 04 km, 03-04 hrs
Begin your day with an early start for the challenging yet rewarding hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The trail ascends through lush pine and rhododendron forests, offering serene views along the way. After 3-4 hours of uphill trekking, you will reach the monastery perched on the cliffside at 3100 meters. This sacred site holds great religious significance, dating back to the 8th century when Guru Rimpoche meditated in a cave here. Take in the spiritual ambiance and stunning views before returning. On your way back, you will visit the historical Kyichu Lhakhang, an important pilgrimage site known for its deep cultural heritage.
DAY 03: GUNITSAWA - SHARNA (2860 m) – 11 km, 05 hrs
After a morning discussion with your guide, you will opt for a sightseeing tour in Paro before heading towards Sharna Camp for your trek. En-route, you’ll stop to explore Drukgyel Dzong, a historic 17th-century fortress that now lies in ruins but offers a glimpse into Bhutan's warrior past. Continuing your drive, you will pass through picturesque rice terraces and traditional Bhutanese farmhouses. The journey to Sharna is peaceful and scenic, and upon arrival, you will settle into the campsite, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and the tranquility of nature.
DAY 04: SHARNA – THANGTHANKA (3570 m) – 16 km, 07 hrs
Today marks the beginning of your trek as you cross a bridge and enter the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Park. The path follows the Paro Chhu River and meanders through dense forests of fir, juniper, and rhododendron. You will encounter a few ascents and descents as the trail weaves through muddy paths and small streams. As you exit the forest, the terrain opens into a vast meadow with stunning views of Jomolhari Peak. The campsite at Thangthanka is located in this serene meadow, offering a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the beauty of the valley.
DAY 05: THANGTHANKA – JANGOTHANG (4080 m) – 15 km, 06 hrs
After waking up early to catch the first light on Jomolhari, you will continue along the Paro Chhu River, passing through expansive alpine meadows. As you trek, you will encounter stone houses built by Yak herders, and the landscape becomes more dramatic with each step. The trail is relatively easy, and you will reach your campsite in Jangothang, a vast meadow with breathtaking views of Jomolhari Peak towering over the valley. This is one of the most picturesque spots of the entire trek, making it the perfect place to relax and absorb the stunning surroundings.
DAY 06: JOMOLHARI HALT
Take a well-deserved rest day at Jangothang to acclimatize to the high altitude and drink in the magnificent views of Jomolhari. The campsite here is one of the most beautiful in the Himalayas, offering a tranquil setting to relax. There are also several hiking trails around the area; discuss with your guide to choose the best one for exploring further into the stunning landscapes or enjoy a leisurely day in this serene location. The breathtaking views and calm atmosphere will make this day one of the highlights of your trek.
DAY 07: JANGOTHANG – YAKTSA (3800 m) – 16 km, 06-07 hrs
Today’s trek involves a challenging uphill climb to Bontela Pass at 4890 meters, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Jomolhari twin peaks, Tsherimgang, and Jichu Drakey. Along the way, you will pass the glacier-fed Tshophu Lake, famous for its scenic beauty. If you have a fishing license, you can try fishing here. The area is also known for spotting Himalayan Blue Sheep. After crossing Bontela Pass, the descent into Domzoo Chhu takes you through lush landscapes and stunning views. Finally, you will reach your campsite for a well-earned rest.
DAY 08: YAKTSA – THOMBUSHONG (4100 m) – 12 km, 05 hrs
Your day starts with a gradual uphill trek through thick forests of fir, rhododendron, and juniper trees, leading you to a stupa. From there, you will descend to a stream and cross it before beginning the ascent to Takungla Pass at 4520 meters. After reaching the pass, the trail gently descends to Thombushong, a place known for its nomadic yak herders. The campsite here offers a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the nomads who inhabit this rugged landscape, and you will have an opportunity to learn more about their culture and way of life.
DAY 09: THOMBUSHONG – PARO (17 km, 07-08 hrs)
On your final trekking day, you will ascend to Thombula Pass at 4380 meters before descending to Gunitsawa village. The trek takes you through beautiful forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron, offering spectacular views along the way. Upon arrival at the end point of your trek, you will bid farewell to your trekking staff and drive back to Paro. The drive back will give you a chance to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced through Bhutan's beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
DAY 10: HOTEL – AIRPORT
After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, your guide and driver will take you to Paro Airport for your departure. Here, you will bid adieu to your Bhutanese team and continue on your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of your trek and the scenic beauty of Bhutan.
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING
INCLUSIVE TREK AND CAMPING
COMPLEMENTARY SERVICE
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING
The trek takes you through this pristine national park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the snow leopard and Himalayan blue sheep. The park’s dense forests and serene landscapes create a tranquil environment for trekkers.
The trek provides spectacular views of the majestic Jomolhari Peak, one of Bhutan’s highest mountains. From the Jangothang campsite, trekkers are treated to a panoramic view of the peak, making it a perfect spot for photos and reflection.
The trek takes you to some of the most enchanting high-altitude glacier lakes in Bhutan. These serene water bodies, including Utsho, Sertsho, Relitsho, and Jagetsho, are surrounded by majestic landscapes, creating an ethereal experience.
The trek passes through Thombushong, where trekkers can encounter nomadic yak herders, offering a rare cultural experience. It provides insight into the traditional lifestyles of highland communities, showcasing their unique customs, practices, and deep connection to nature.
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The trek spans an elevation range from 2,850m (Shana) to 4,000m (Yaktsa), featuring remote valleys, alpine meadows, rugged mountain passes, rocky terrain, and dense forests, with numerous water bodies such as streams, rivers, and waterfalls, including the Paro Chhu River, enriching the scenic journey through diverse natural landscapes.
The trail is marked by cairns, prayer flags, and occasional stone markers at key points, with clear signage provided at significant junctures, particularly near high passes and ridge lines, ensuring trekkers can navigate the route safely and effectively through the diverse and often challenging terrain.
The trail offers ample water from streams and rivers, but trekkers should carry purification tablets or filters. There are no permanent food stops along the route, with meals arranged by your host to ensure sustenance throughout the journey in this remote and rugged landscape.
The trek’s high-altitude sections near passes and base camp pose a risk of altitude sickness, with rugged, steep terrain and rapidly changing weather requiring preparation for cold temperatures. There are no medical facilities, so a personal first aid kit is essential. Wildlife sightings include blue sheep, yaks, marmots, and rare birds like golden eagles.
Before embarking on this trek, it is essential to dedicate time to proper preparation and training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, as the challenging terrain, remote locations, and demanding physical requirements of the journey necessitate excellent fitness, stamina, and mental resilience; this includes engaging in cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking practice, as well as researching the route, packing appropriate gear, and acclimatizing to high altitudes, which will not only enhance your capability to handle the trek’s rigors but also allow you to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments this extraordinary adventure has.
This trek is best suited for seasoned adventurers with prior walking experience and fitness preparation, as it demands stamina, endurance, and readiness for challenging ascents, descents, and long walking days; it is not recommended for children or the elderly, ensuring participants are fully equipped to embrace the physical demands while enjoying every moment of this thrilling journey; taking a fitness class beforehand will enhance your ability to tackle the rugged terrain with confidence and make the most of the trek’s breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to savor an unforgettable adventure tailored for those ready to push their limits and explore nature's best.
The higher your trek takes you, the more crucial – and often costlier – your gear becomes. However, every investment will feel worthwhile when you're standing at the summit.
Here’s a checklist of essential items to prepare for high-altitude trekking.
High-altitude hiking and mountaineering offer unmatched thrills and unforgettable rewards. With proper gear and preparation, you can safely explore breathtaking landscapes and achieve incredible milestones.
Altitude sickness, including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can develop at elevations above 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) due to reduced oxygen levels. This condition can be life-threatening and is the leading cause of medical evacuations in the Himalayas.
AMS is the most common and frequently affects trekkers who ascend too rapidly without adequate acclimatization. Fortunately, proper preparation, gradual altitude training, and acclimatization can significantly reduce the risk of severe altitude illnesses, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.
Our every tour and travel package is crafted to immerse you in local cultures, offering you the chance to engage with communities as you explore. Whether staying in a local farmhouse, visiting farms, or trekking through remote areas, our packages always include community involvement and unique experiences. We take you beyond the typical tourist sites, guiding you through hidden gems off the beaten path—places not found in guidebooks and missed by most tourists. Our goal is to provide travelers with an interactive, authentic experience, fostering respect for local customs and traditions.
Every area we visit holds great importance to us, and trekkers can truly appreciate and enjoy the effort invested in showcasing Bhutan's pristine landscapes; let us collectively support the conservation of Bhutan’s natural environment by respecting, preserving, and refraining from polluting these treasured spaces, as our conscious actions contribute significantly to safeguarding the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem; by practicing sustainable tourism and protecting these threatened natural wonders, we ensure that the unmatched beauty and cultural richness of this small kingdom are preserved for future generations to admire, cherish, and be inspired by.
Our expert cook ensures your trek is fueled with fresh, organic, and healthy ingredients sourced from local markets, crafting a delightful blend of local and continental dishes to keep you energized; breakfast features options like toast, juice, coffee, tea, cereal, fresh fruits, pancakes, eggs, and fried bacon or sausage, while lunch is often a packed hot meal for convenience; dinner offers a variety of freshly available grilled meats, fish, chicken, pork, beef, and optional vegetables, with occasional treats of local or regional specialties, delivering a culinary experience that satisfies your appetite and enhances the joy of your trekking adventure.
Whether you’re embarking on a trek or simply visiting Bhutan, obtaining travel insurance is mandatory, as Born Explorer cannot control or take responsibility for unforeseen events such as natural disasters or other incidents that could impact your trip; holding comprehensive travel insurance is essential to cover all intended activities, including health emergencies, lost belongings, and any other related issues beyond our control, ensuring peace of mind and protection throughout your journey, as this vital safeguard allows you to focus on enjoying Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences while being prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise.
Your trek will be guided by a highly experienced senior trekking guide with extensive knowledge of the route, terrain, and essential details, ensuring your journey is safe, well-organized, and enjoyable; their expertise encompasses not only navigating the path but also addressing any challenges, providing valuable tips, and sharing insights about the region’s natural beauty, culture, and environment, which greatly enhances your trekking experience; with their support, you’ll have access to guidance on acclimatization, equipment, and local customs, allowing you to focus on the adventure while feeling confident and well-prepared throughout the journey, making your trek truly memorable and enriching.
Enhance your travel experience by upgrading your stay at luxurious hotels that offer unparalleled comfort and world-class amenities, ensuring a memorable and relaxing retreat.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in the heart of local culture by spending time with the locals at their homestays, where you can experience their everyday life, traditions, and warm hospitality. This unique opportunity allows you to bond with the community, savor authentic home-cooked meals, and gain deeper insights into their customs. Whether indulging in luxury or embracing local living, both options promise enriching experiences that will make your journey truly unforgettable.
Below are some additional adventures you may want to explore, offering unique experiences that will enhance your journey. From trekking through remote mountain trails to immersing yourself in local cultures, these trips provide a perfect balance of adventure and discovery. Whether you seek thrilling outdoor activities, cultural exchanges, or serene escapes, these experiences are designed to offer something for every type of traveler. Kindly check them out to see which ones align with your travel aspirations and interests.
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