This is short, but very popular trekking route. The trek starts at 2,500 m and takes us to almost 5000 m. This trek also provides spectacular views of landscapes, exotic plants and animals. The highlight of this trek is the awe-inspiring view of Mt. Jomolhari from Jomolhari base camp in Jangothang.
Day 1
Gunyitsawa Village to Sharna Zampa
Time: 40 mins
Trail: 80 m descent
Campsite altitude: 2,850 m
The Royal Bhutan Army at Gunyitsawa checks our trek permit and endorses it. The trek begins here.
Day 2
Sharna Zampa to Thangthangkha (this is a day-long trek)
Time: 7-8 hrs
Distance: 22 km
Trail: 770 m ascent, 10 m descent
Campsite altitude: 3,610 m
Day 3
Thangthangkha to Jangothang
Time: 5-6 hrs
Distance: 19 km
Trail: 480 m ascent
Campsite altitude: 4,080 m
If we arrive early, we will be able to see Mt. Jomolhari. Otherwise, we will have to wait until the next morning. From here, the trek continues upward the Pacchu river valley.
Day 4
Halt at Jangothang
Today, our halt at Jangothang provides plenty of time for splendid views of lakes and snow-capped mountains, including Jomolhari, and Jichudrake. If we are lucky, we may spot the blue sheep towards the upper slopes.
Day 5
Jangothang to Lingzhi
Time: 6-7 hrs
Distance: 16 km
Trail: 810 m ascent, 1,090 m descent
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m
Today, we will climb up and down almost the same altitude. The trail takes us across the last settlement in the valley to the Pachhu River. It then passes by Tshophu Lake at 4,380 m and climbs up sharply Bhonte La Pass at 4,890 m, the highest point of the trek.
Day 6
Lingzhi to Shodu
Time: 8-9 hrs
Distance: 22 km
Trail: 940 m ascent, 920 m descent
Campsite altitude: 4,080 m
Today we ascend to Yelila Pass at 4,930 m. If the sky is clear, we can see Jomolhari, Tsherim Gang and Masang Gang.
Day 7
Shodu to Barshong
Time: 5-6 hrs
Distance 16 km
Trail: 250 m ascent, 670 m descent
Campsite altitude: 3,710 m
Today the trail passes through rhododendron forest and cascading waterfalls following Thimchhu River.
Day 8
Barshong to Dolam Kencho
Time: 4-6 hrs
Distance: 15 km
Trail: 290 m ascent, 640 m descent
Campsite altitude: 3,320 m
Today the trail descends further to Thimchhu River valley passing through dense forests comprising rhododendron, birch, conifer, maples, and bamboos. Towards the end, it ascends to a pastureland. The camp is pitched at the middle of a meadow.
Day 9
Dolam Kencho to Dodena
Time: 3-4 hrs
Distance: 8 km
Trail: 500 m ascent, 930 m descent
Today we will spot langurs on the route that passes through forest and a small pass. The trek ends at Jigme Dorji National Park at Dodena, in Thimphu.
Jomolhari Trek Ends
The trek ends at Chari Monastery, 40 minutes’ hike from Dodena Monastery.