Stunning Chomolhari Trek (10n/11d)

Mt.Chomolhari

Mt.Chomolhari

Day 1 : Paro
Arrive at Paro by Druk Air flight which will offer you great views of Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, Tsrim Gang and Jichu Drake. The moment you step out of the plane you will see the difference. Bhutan welcomes you with cool, clean fresh air. Peace and quietness is just another bonus. Our tour officer will escort you to Kichu Resort. If time prevails visit the National Museum & Rinpung Dzong. Overinght at Kichu resort.

Day 2 : Paro
To acclimatize you, a hike to Taktsang Monastery view point, meaning a tiger’s den lies at an altitude of 3000m which takes about 2/3 hours. The monastery clings to a huge granite cliff 800 meters from the Paro Valley.  Tea and snacks will be served at the cafeteria where you can gaze at this beautiful monument built during the 17th century. Stroll back to Kichu Resort. Evening at leisure

Day 3 : Trek begins from Drugyal Dzong – Shana
The walking distance is 16 kilometers and takes 5/6 hours. The path leads down to the Pa chu river and runs on the left side passing villages and scattered farmlands. Before reaching the camp you will cross a military camp and trekking permits have to be produced. A nice campsite known as Shana Zam at an altitude of 2800m is located just beyond the military camp.

Day 4 : Shana – Soi Thangthangkha
The walking distance is 22 kilometers which takes 8/9 hours. The trail is rather gradual without any steep climbs through dense forest of oak, pine and spruce. Camp lies on the left side of the river at an altitude of 3600 marked with two stone shelters.

Day 5 : Soi Thangthangkha – Jangothang
The walking distance is 12 kilometers which takes 4/5 hours. The path ascends for a while till you reach an army camp. After a kilometer pass a village called Jampu towards the north. From here you will be above the tree line enjoying the stunning views of the mountains. Occasionally pass by solitary houses of the yak herders before you finally reach the old ruins of the fort known as Jangothang (4050m) with a community hall. This is also the Chomolhari base camp.

Day 6 : Jangothang halt – Options:
Excursion to the nameless view point at an altitude of 5250 offering beautiful view of Mt.Chomolhari & Kungphu. Fishing can also be done at Tshophu Lake filled with giant rainbow trout provided clients bring their own equipment or relax at the camp.

Day 7 : Jangothang – Dumzo.
The walking distance is 18 kilometers which takes 6/7 hours crossing a pass known as Bhonte La (4900m). This day offers beautiful views of Mt.Chomolhari, Kungphu, Jichu Drake from the Two lakes and wonderful landscape. The ascent is about 800m in altitude, the descent 1,090m in altitude. Before reaching the camp you will pass the Soi Yaksa village and one kilometer further cross a bridge to reach the campsite at an altitude of 3800m.

Day 8 Dhumzo – Thombu Shong.
The walking distance is 13 kilometers about 5/6 hours walk. This stage offers a lot of scenic beauty. You will have good views into the valley and from the Thombu La Pass at an altitude of 4520m views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake can be seen. From the Pass its all the way down hill till camp at an altitude of 4180m situated above tree line. The difference in altitude (ascent) is 700m.

Day 9 : Thombu Shong – Shana Zam.
Walking distance of 15 kilometers or about 5/6 hours walk. The first part especially the walk on the ridge offers beautiful views partly to the mighty ice giants in the Chomolhari region. The second part consists of a steep descent which lacks interesting views. At end of the descent you will come across the same military camp as you entered. Many possible camps can be found if you walk further down.

Day 10 : Shana Zam – Drugyel Dzong.
Our vehicle will be waiting for your return at Drugyel Dzong and then proceed to Kichu resort. Overnight Resort.

Day 11 : Departure
Transfer to airport for departure.

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